Good Luck London Marathon Runners 

Over 40,000 people gather each year to take part in the iconic London Marathon. Many more than this apply each year, but only a few are lucky enough to secure a place in the race via the annual ballot. The London Marathon began in 1981, but the streets of London have been a venue of marathons for a long time before that, with the Polytechnic Marathon first being held back in 1909. The London Marathon was the brain child of athlete John Disley and journalist Chris Brasher and was inspired by similar events through the streets of New York and Boston. Even the first race was incredibly popular, with over 20,000 applying to run and 6,747 being accepted into the race. Chris Brasher’s son Hugh is now Race Director.

More high temperatures for race day?

Last year’s London Marathon was the hottest ever with temperatures hitting 24C. Not so much fun for those wearing fancy dress costumes! With the weather taking a pleasant turn right now, it could be set for another hot one this year.

The race route

The race route covers 26.219 miles around the River Thames. The course is mainly flat, and starts at Greenwich Park with the finish line on The Mall outside Buckingham Palace.

Watching the race

 The races start at 8:55am with the Elite Wheelchair Races. The Elite Women’s Race begins at 9:15am, and at 10:00am there’s the Elite Men’s Race, the British & English Athletics Marathon Championships and the Main Race.

TV Coverage starts before the 8:55am race so be sure to tune in early. You’ll be able to watch live on BBC1 and BBC2 or via the BBC Sport website.

#ThanksaBillion Fantastic Fund Raising for Dementia charities

The London Marathon also raises money for charities. This year, the charities are both the Alzheimer’s Society and Alzheimer’s Research UK, to raise money for dementia research and awareness. The mission this year is to raise a billion pounds to help the million people in the UK suffering from dementia, and their loved ones and carers.

RUN plates from £199 If you’re a marathon runner, how would you like a RUN plate? Running is a passion and you can share your passion through your own private RUN plate. We’ve got some great RUN plates right now with prices starting at just £199. Take your pick from 3 RUN, E15 RUN, F20 RUN, G8 RUN, BU02 RUN, AU04 RUN and many more.