So You Want to Ditch the Ditch? Deferring Your London Marathon Entry Like a Boss
The thrill of scoring a London Marathon place! The crushing realization you might not be ready to conquer those 26.2 miles (don't worry, we've all been there). Fear not, fellow procrastinators and injury-prone pals, because deferring your entry is totally an option! But before you hit snooze on your training plan, let's break down the deets.
Not-So-Speedy Gonzales: Who Can Defer?
- Ballot Buddies: Secured your spot through the oh-so-competitive ballot? You're in luck! You can postpone your glory lap to the following year's race.
- Pregnant Powerhouses: Bun in the oven and a marathon on the horizon? Don't sweat it! Pregnant and postpartum runners with qualifying times (Good for Age or Championship places) can defer without requalifying. Just pay the entry fee for your chosen year.
Uh Oh...These Folks Might Be Out of Luck:
- Tour Operator Trotters: Booked your spot through a tour operator? You'll need to check with them directly about deferral options. Their policies might be different.
- Double Dippers: Deferring from 2023 to 2024? Sorry, but back-to-back deferrals aren't an option this year.
Important Note: The deadline to defer for the 2024 race has already passed (cue dramatic music). But fret not, future marathoners! Keep an eye out for emails around February/March next year for the 2025 deferral window.
Deferral Done Right: How to Be a Champion Postponer
While you can't defer right now, here's how to be a pro when the window opens:
- The Email Awaits: The London Marathon crew will send out information on deferrals to eligible runners. Keep your inbox clear, because procrastination is a marathon you might actually lose.
- Pay Up, Buttercup: Deferring ain't free. You'll need to pay the entry fee for the year you're targeting.
- Follow the Instructions: The email will have clear instructions on how to defer online. Don't be that friend who misses out because they forgot a step (we all have that friend).
Top Tip: Deferring early shows you're committed (eventually) and frees up a spot for someone else if they're on the waiting list. You're basically a marathon matchmaker, cupid for calves!
Deferral FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered (Briefly)
- How do I know if I'm eligible to defer? Check your entry method (ballot, qualifying time, etc.) and see if it matches the criteria above.
- When will I know about deferring for the 2025 race? The London Marathon peeps typically send out info around February/March next year.
- I can't find the deferral email! Check your spam folder first. Then, contact the London Marathon for assistance (https://www.tcslondonmarathon.com/help/contact-us).
- I got my place through a tour operator. Can I defer? Maybe! Reach out to your tour operator to see what their policy is.
- I deferred from 2023 to 2024. Can I defer again? Unfortunately, no. Back-to-back deferrals aren't allowed this year.
So there you have it! Deferring your London Marathon entry is totally doable, but make sure you follow the guidelines and keep those deadlines in mind. Now you can focus on getting healthy (or at least watching inspirational running movies on the couch). You've got this, champ (eventually)!
