The Great London Marathon Meltdown: More People Applied Than Fish in the Sea (Almost)!
The 2024 London Marathon was a spectacle, a triumph of human spirit, and apparently, according to the numbers, a rather desperate attempt by a record-breaking number of people to escape reality via a very long run.
How Many Applied For London Marathon 2024 |
So, how many people ACTUALLY applied?
Brace yourselves. We're talking 578,374. Yes, you read that right. That's more people than live in some small countries (cough, cough, Monaco). Apparently, the allure of pounding the pavement past Buckingham Palace was too much to resist. Did someone say existential crisis?
But why the sudden surge in applications?
Well, that's the million-dollar question (except it was actually a £45 entry fee). Here's my take on some possibilities:
QuickTip: A quick skim can reveal the main idea fast.
- Lockdown Legs: Cabin fever finally got the better of everyone, and running a marathon seemed like a perfectly sane way to unleash all that pent-up energy.
- The Bridget Jones Effect: Remember when everyone started running after watching that movie? Maybe there was a similar phenomenon with a feel-good athletics documentary.
- The Great Escape: Perhaps running 26.2 miles was a metaphorical attempt to outrun the ever-growing bills and anxieties of modern life.
Whatever the reason, the London Marathon became the hottest ticket in town (or should we say, the hottest jog through town?).
Fun Fact: The previous record for most applications was set in 2019, pre-pandemic. Looks like people were itching to get back on the streets (and break some world records)!
QuickTip: Scroll back if you lose track.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered (Probably)
How to apply for the London Marathon?
- Applications typically open in May. Keep an eye on the London Marathon website for updates!
How many places are available for the marathon?
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
- The exact number varies, but it's a fraction of the total applicants. Be prepared for some stiff competition!
How to increase your chances of getting in?
- There's a ballot system, but some places are reserved for charities and runners with qualifying times.
How to train for a marathon?
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.
- This one requires a whole separate blog post! But seriously, consult a coach and build your mileage gradually.
How to survive the existential dread that might hit during mile 20?
- Pack some good tunes, witty mantras, and maybe a picture of your dream vacation to keep you motivated.
There you have it, folks! The lowdown on the 2024 London Marathon application frenzy. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go for a jog to clear my head from all these statistics!