Starting times
Most summer races in northern states start at 8:00 a.m. Many, especially those longer than 10k, start even earlier so runners can finish before it gets too hot to run.
The Bangkok Marathon, in Thailand, goes even farther, with a 2:00 a.m. starting time for runners expecting to finish between 5 and 7 hours, and a 3:30 a.m. start for those whose estimated finish time is under 5 hours.
The heat is so oppressive (often 80 degrees or higher during the night) that runners want to finish before dawn.
Even if your race doesn't have to deal with such extreme temperatures, keep in mind that runners' bodies heat up quickly and races should be held as early in the morning as possible.
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