Key marathon success factors include:

• Successful 20 week pre-marathon training period
• Sufficient amount of marathon specific training including long runs and marathon paced runs
• Sufficient muscle strength and endurance
• Update to a realistic time goal three weeks before the race
• Detailed target lap times for every five kilometers
• Executing pace plan, and not running too fast too early in the race, no matter how good one feels (because after one hour of running the feeling is feel euphoric)
• A previously prepared and tested timetable for the race day, taking one from wake-up to the starting line
• Staying calm before the race and not wasting energy
• Not trying anything new in the race (gel, clothes, shoes)
• Drinking at every service station
• A high level of confidence in own ability
• Focusing on energy conservation early in the race
• Focusing on positive thoughts towards the end of the race