What is the Behobia-San Sebastián 2024?

La Behobia-San Sebastián es una carrera que se celebra anualmente desde 1919 y que, con el tiempo, ha ganado una enorme popularidad. Cada año, atrae a miles de corredores de diferentes partes del mundo, deseosos de superar los exigentes 20 km de recorrido que separan Behobia (un barrio de Irún) de San Sebastián. En 2024, la carrera llega a su 59ª edición, con un límite de 27.000 participantes.

The Behobia-San Sebastián is an annual race that has been held since 1919 and has steadily gained popularity over the years. Every year, it attracts thousands of runners from around the world eager to tackle the challenging 20 km course that connects Behobia (a neighborhood in Irún) with San Sebastián. In 2024, the race will celebrate its 59th edition, with a participant cap of 27,000 runners.

What's new for the Behobia-San Sebastián 2024

1. Registration and Participant Cap

This year, registration for the Behobia-San Sebastián 2024 has been a resounding success. For the first time in history, the spots filled up quickly, leaving many runners on the waiting list. The organization has limited the number of participants to 27,000, 3,000 fewer than previous years, due to transportation restrictions caused by high-speed rail construction in the area.

Although registration is closed, those still hoping to participate can join the waiting list. It’s also possible to transfer a registration to another runner if a registered participant decides to pass on their bib. This transfer process is free and can be easily managed through the event's official website.

2. Bib Transfer

If, for any reason, a registered runner cannot participate in the race, they have the option to transfer their bib to another athlete. This bib transfer is completely free and must be completed before the race to ensure that the bib is correctly assigned to the new runner. It is important that this transfer is done officially to avoid issues with race insurance or disqualification.

3. Route modification

One of the major changes to the Behobia-San Sebastián 2024 is a slight modification to the route due to the ongoing high-speed rail construction in the Irún area. This year, the detour will take runners along Avenida Letxunborro, adding 220 meters to the usual course. In total, runners will cover 20.22 km, a small but significant difference that will remain in place for at least the 2024 and 2025 editions.

This adjustment does not take away from the essence of the route, which remains a tough challenge. The race begins with steep climbs, such as Gaintxurizketa and Alto de Miracruz, testing runners' endurance and strategy before culminating in the beautiful city of San Sebastián.

Preparing for the Behobia-San Sebastián 2024

1. Training guide

One of the most valuable tools for Behobia-San Sebastián 2024 runners is the training guide provided by the organizers. This training plan is designed to gradually prepare participants, combining aerobic exercises with strength training routines.

The guide is structured into 17-week phases, allowing runners to adapt their training based on their fitness levels and the time available before race day. The goal is to arrive in top physical and mental shape to tackle the race's 20 km.

2. Nutrition Guide

In addition to physical training, nutrition plays a crucial role in a runner's performance. The organization also offers a nutrition guide to help participants properly prepare their bodies for the race. This guide includes recommendations on hydration, supplementation, pre-race breakfast, and the best nutritional strategy in the days leading up to the event.

It's important for runners to test these recommendations during training to avoid any issues on race day. The guide is not personalized, so it's always advisable to consult a sports nutritionist for a more tailored plan.

Innovations in Behobia-San Sebastián 2024

1. TAUPADEKINN Study

One of the standout innovations in this year's edition is the introduction of the TAUPADEKINN study, a pioneering research project that will analyze the relationship between heart rate and medical incidents during the race. This study, in collaboration with the Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, will focus on runners using wearable devices.

Participants in this study will receive a personalized report on their performance, helping them better understand how their body responds to the physical demands of the race. Initiatives like this not only enhance runner safety but also contribute valuable insights to sports science.

Everything you need to know for race day

1. Race start time

The Behobia-San Sebastian 2024 will start at 9:30 AM with the wheelchair and handbike categories, followed by the roller skaters at 9:35 AM and, finally, the runners starting at 9:55 AM.

This 15-minute earlier start is designed to improve event organization and ensure a smoother flow of participants along the course. It’s recommended that runners arrive with plenty of time to avoid crowds and complete their warm-ups without rushing.

2. Bib and official t-shirt pickup

Bib pickup will take place in the days leading up to the race at the runner's expo in San Sebastián. In addition to the bib, participants will receive the official 2024 race t-shirt, designed in collaboration with Luanvi. This year, the shirt features a yellow and white horizontal stripe design, made with cool-skin technology for quick sweat drying, and flatlock seams to prevent chafing.

3. Race day tips

For first-time Behobia-San Sebastián runners, it’s important to follow a few basic tips to make the most of the experience:

Pre-Race Rest: Getting plenty of rest in the days leading up to the race is crucial to arriving in peak physical condition.
Food: Avoid trying new foods on race day. Stick to the nutritional strategy you've been practicing during training.
Hydration: Make sure to stay well-hydrated in the days before and during the race. There will be hydration stations along the route, but bring whatever you feel is necessary.
Pace Management: The Behobia is a challenging race, especially during the early climbs. Maintain a controlled pace and conserve energy for the later stages.

A race for running enthusiasts

The Behobia-San Sebastián 2024 is more than just a race—it's an experience that combines sportsmanship, effort, and personal triumph. With this year's new developments, including route changes, the participant cap, and the innovative TAUPADEKINN study, the race promises to be more exciting than ever.

If you are planning a visit to San Sebastian and you are passionate about running, maybe it's time to start looking for a race bib. Come to Lasala Plaza Hotel and whether you are an experienced runner or facing your first Behobia, follow the training, nutrition and strategy recommendations to make the most of this historic event. See you at the starting line on November 10!

Everything you need to know about Behobia 2024: registration, route and more