The Great London Marathon Mystery: Just How Many Brave Souls Toed the Start Line in 2024?
Ah, the London Marathon. A glorious (and slightly terrifying) 26.2-mile journey through the heart of London, pushing your limits and celebrating human achievement (or at least the ability to walk somewhat normally afterwards). But this year, a question has plagued pub quizzes and befuddled even the most stat-obsessed running enthusiasts: how many people actually ran the darn thing?
The Plot Thickens: Entries vs. Finishers
We do know this: a record-breaking 578,374 people applied to take part in the 2024 marathon. That's more applications than there are slices of bread in a bakery convention (and probably caused a similar level of sweat on palms). But applying and actually running are two different beasts entirely.
Here's where it gets interesting. Some reports claim a record-shattering 50,000 runners finished the course. Impressive, right? A veritable human snake winding its way through London. But hold your metaphorical horses! Other sources suggest a slightly less epic 53,000 runners crossed the finish line.
So, what gives?
The truth, dear reader, is somewhere in that glorious marathon distance of 26.2 miles. Here are a few theories:
- The Great Post-Pub Costume Crisis: Maybe some runners got a bit too enthusiastic celebrating their pre-marathon carb load, resulting in a costume malfunction that disqualified them before the race even began. Who knew a strategically placed banana peel could be such a fashion faux pas?
- The Heroic Detour: Perhaps a few runners with hearts of gold (and possibly a malfunctioning sense of direction) heroically intervened in a rogue pigeon convention, saving the day but missing the finish line cut-off.
- The Power of the Picnic: Let's face it, those crowds lining the route offer some truly excellent picnicking opportunities. Maybe a few runners simply got lured in by the irresistible aroma of scotch eggs and decided a celebratory nap was a better use of their afternoon.
Whatever the reason, the exact number remains a delightful mystery. But one thing's for sure: the 2024 London Marathon was a testament to human spirit, questionable costume choices, and the undeniable allure of a well-placed picnic spread.
Burning Questions: Your 2024 London Marathon FAQ
How to Train for the 2025 London Marathon?
Start slow, be consistent, and avoid questionable pre-race pub crawls.
How to Apply for the 2025 London Marathon?
Channel your inner zen master and prepare for some serious online form-filling patience.
How to Avoid Getting Lost During the Marathon (and Missing the Finish Line)?
Invest in a good map (and maybe avoid befriending any rogue pigeons).
How to Ensure You Don't Get Distracted by Picnic Delights?
Pack your own snacks and practice unwavering focus.
How to Decide Between a Personal Best and a Post-Race Picnic?
This one requires careful soul-searching (and possibly a coin toss).
