LateRooms.com - Barcelona Marathon 'could put runners through their paces'

LateRooms.com can announce that people staying in Barcelona hotels should get their running shoes on and head to the gym if they want to train in time to participate in the city's annual marathon.

The Barcelona Marathon was first run in 1977 and since then ahs established itself as something of an institution that is bound to put competitors through their paces and test their speed and stamina as they travel through the city.

In 2010 it will be taking place on March 7th, so people may still have the opportunity to start training if they want to participate.

They will have to be up bright and early however, as the action begins at 08:30 local time 0n Avinguda Maria Cristina, which is named after Maria Cristina, Queen Consort and Queen Regent of Spain.

Although the first runners begin to cross the finish line at around 10:40 local time, those who are perhaps not as speedy have up to six hours after the start of the event to complete the challenge.

It will also be split into several sub-categories to divide contestants depending on their age and ability.

Nearly 10,000 people registered for the Barcelona Marathon in 2009, compared to just over 4,000 in 2006.

If you're heading to the Barcelona Marathon this year, we strongly advise that you book your hoteles Barcelona as soon as possible, given the huge popularity of the event.