Valencia Ciudad del Running: Simplifying Running for Visitors and Locals

Valencia Ciudad del Running, established in January 2014, is a pioneering initiative aimed at consolidating Valencia as a premier international destination for running. Over the past decade, this city-brand project has significantly elevated Valencia's status in the global running community, making it a hub for runners locally, nationally, and internationally. With a robust portfolio of nearly 40 races annually, including the prestigious Valencia Marathon scheduled for December 1, 2024, Valencia Ciudad del Running has supported the running landscape through strategic collaborations and innovative solutions. 

The Vision and Mission 

The core mission of Valencia Ciudad del Running is to provide comprehensive coverage and support for all amateur running events in the city. As Alex Heras, the Communications Director of Valencia Ciudad del Running, explains: “People have been running for years. We are not inventing this movement—we are here to support and improve the sport.” This includes creating several platforms that foster a supportive environment for runners of all levels. The initiative has played a crucial role in promoting running as a key aspect of Valencia's culture, enhancing the city's reputation through high-quality organizational standards and setting numerous records. The project boasts an impressive track record, including nine world records on the road and two on the track, alongside five Spanish records in recent years. 

Innovative Use of Technology

One of the standout strategies employed by Valencia Ciudad del Running since 2018 is leveraging Strava's route embeds on their official website. This integration has been instrumental in making running around Valencia accessible and enjoyable for both residents and visitors. By embedding Strava routes, the platform provides detailed and interactive maps of popular running circuits, including last year's marathon course. These routes are not only visually appealing but also offer runners essential data such as distance, elevation, images, and user reviews, optimizing their running experience.

Enhancing On-Ground Experience with QR Codes 

To further augment the runner's experience, Valencia Ciudad del Running is in the process of introducing panels around the city's 12 main running circuits equipped with QR codes. These QR codes, when scanned, direct runners to specific Strava routes that can be easily viewed and downloaded. Since June 2024, panels for two running circuits have been put up, with 10 more to be placed on running routes over the summer. Additionally, through a similar program called ‘Welcome To Valencia,’ over 50 hotels in the city will have similar panels integrated into their lobbies, equipped with QR codes of the city’s running circuits. This seamless integration allows runners to access accurate and up-to-date route information on the go, including water stations, public toilet access, and distance, promoting a more connected and informed running community. “Moreover, runners can see other running circuits when they scan the QR codes that they can connect to their route to create a longer run,” explains Alex. “You can also filter the routes by distance so you can pick and choose what you prefer.” The QR code initiative exemplifies the project's commitment to utilizing technology to support and enhance the running experience in Valencia.

Impact and Achievements 

The strategic implementation of Strava’s route embeds has significantly contributed to Valencia Ciudad del Running’s success. The hope is for the innovative use of QR codes and panels to further elevate the running experience in Valencia, for both visitors and locals alike. It’s easy to see the success already taking place, as the initiative’s Strava club has nearly 15,000 members. These efforts are not only making running more accessible but are also positioning Valencia as a leading city for running enthusiasts. "The Strava Club is not only helping runners on the ground," says Alex. "It's creating a true community of runners that love the city."

As the city continues to host world-class events and set new records, Valencia Ciudad del Running stands as a model for how innovative solutions can transform urban running landscapes, making the city an incredible running location for runners worldwide.