The London Marathon is one of six prestigious marathons recognized as “World Marathon Majors” with Berlin, Boston, Chicago, New York and Tokyo. This 42,195 km walking race - or 26,2 miles - is currently sponsored by the Virgin Group, hence its designation as the Virgin London Marathon. Since its creation in 1981, it welcomes each year in April more and more participants to such an extent that today not all requests can be honored. This race is one of the major events of the sports calendar, and is broadcast on TV in more than 150 countries around the world ...
What are the characteristics of this prestigious marathon and what are the steps to take to be part of the adventure? Let's go !!!
When and how was the London Marathon born?
As so often in England, it all started in a pub (the Dysart Arms) in 1978 where John Disley - British athlete - and Chris Brasher - former Olympic champion in athletics and sports journalist - decided to participate in the New York marathon renowned for its organization and its extraordinary atmosphere.
On his return Chris Brasher wrote an article for the Observer in which he defined the race as "the most fraternal in the world" concluding with the question "Would London have enough Heart and a sense of hospitality to host a such event…? "
In 1980, the two co-founders succeeded in convincing the competent authorities and the police to organize such an event! A few months later, on March 29, 1981, the first edition of the London Marathon was launched, bringing together 7 runners selected from the 747 registered. The success was such that the following year, the organizers received more than 20 registration requests for the 000 bibs available.
What are the characteristics of the London Marathon?
The London Marathon track is considered flat and one of the fastest in the world.
What is the route of the London Marathon?
The departure is given at 10:00 am at Greenwich. Marathon runners travel through iconic London landmarks. After Woolwich, marathon runners discover the famous ship “Cutty Sark”, Then cross the river at Tower Bridge.
They then make a loop to Ile aux Chiens to pass a second time at the foot of the Tower of London. From there, the athletes pass through the district of the City, walk past the Saint Paul's cathedral to reach Trafalgar Square.
Arrival is in Saint James Park, on the Mall a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace.
Map of the marathon route.
What is the mood of the London Marathon?
According to specialists, the London Marathon is unique in terms of the general atmosphere and the fervor of the public.
When to register for the London Marathon?
At the London Marathon, the race begins almost a year before the event. Registration is done on the Official website of the organizer. It begins each year at the beginning of May for a period of 5 days.
This race must be earned and the first selection criterion is your determination to participate!
Date of the 2021 London Marathon
The London Marathon will take place on Sunday 3 October 2021.
How much are the registration fees?
Count around 120 euros.
How to register for the London Marathon as a foreigner (French, Swiss, Belgian…)?
Participate in the draw as overseas (foreigners)
For registrations by drawing lots, it is essential to register on the website from the first day and the first hour of the opening of registrations: first come, first served!
This takes place at the beginning of May to run in April of next year, and unlike New York, the London Marathon lottery is free.
During October, you will receive an answer by email which will give you the outcome of your request, then in March - always by email - you will receive the “registration form” (bib withdrawal voucher).
Running for a charity or "charity"
If you didn't win your lottery ticket in October, you can run to benefit a charity. For this you need to buy a bib, with the sole obligation to collect from the sponsors a minimum of donations which may vary depending on the association. In addition, registration fees, transport and accommodation. The charity must be chosen from a list pre-defined by the organization. To apply, contact the association listed on the website of the London Marathon.
Once you've secured a charity spot, set up your Virgin Money Giving page where all your contacts can donate and help you raise the money needed to validate your participation.
Use the services of a tour operator
Going through a travel agency is the easiest and most comfortable solution. The final cost will be higher but will ensure your participation in the marathon without taking care of all the logistics. Count a budget of just under 900 € depending on the options you take.
How do I register for the London Marathon as a UK resident?
Participate in the raffle as a resident
For registrations by drawing lots, it is essential to register on the website from the first day and the first hour of the opening of registrations: first come, first served!
This takes place at the beginning of May to run in April of next year, and unlike New York, the London Marathon lottery is free.
During October, you will receive a response by email which will give you the outcome of your request. If it is positive, you will receive by post in March "registration form" (voucher for the withdrawal of the bib).
Running for a charity or "charity"
If you didn't win your lottery ticket in October, you can run to benefit a charity. For this you need to buy a bib, with the sole obligation to collect from the sponsors a minimum of donations which may vary depending on the association. In addition, there are registration, transport and accommodation fees. The charity must be chosen from a list pre-defined by the organization. To apply, contact directly the association referenced on the website of the London Marathon.
Once you have secured a charity place, set up your Virgin Money Giving page where all your contacts can donate and help you raise the money needed to validate your participation.
« Good for Age »
"Good for Age" is the guaranteed registration for runners who have achieved quality lap times during the two years preceding the race.
Here is the time realized in the preceding marathons ensuring your qualification according to your gender and your age.
The deadline to register for “Good for Age” is early July. Your times will of course be verified before validating your participation. For this you will be asked:
- Proof of performance: photocopy of your results (certificate, newspaper clipping).
- Proof of age: photocopy of driving license with photo, passport or birth certificate.
These items should be sent to the following address:
Good for age
Virgin Marathon London
PO Box 3460
London, SE1 0YA
British Athletics
Check with your athletics club to find out if it is associated with British Athletic and be able to join the marathon!
Sponsors of your company
If your company is a sponsor of the marathon or a client of one of the partner companies then you may be able to take the start!
Special case: How to postpone your participation?
For runners who withdraw due to illness or injury are allowed to postpone their place for the following year's Marathon. This postponement is only valid for one year.
To do this, you must complete the withdrawal form the day before departure at 20:00 p.m. at the latest.
At the end, you will receive by email the sick or injured registration form to complete and pay the registration fees in order to validate your participation for the following year.
