You Wanna Run Like Forrest Gump? How Many London Marathons Have There Been?
So, you've got the running shoes, the questionable taste in neon sportswear, and the undeniable urge to propel yourself 26.2 miles across the capital. But before you conquer the London Marathon like Forrest Gump conquering that cross-country run (minus the whole stopping traffic thing), you might be wondering: how many marathons have even taken place?
The History of Hoofin' it in the Big Smoke: A Not-So-Brief Recap
Believe it or not, the London Marathon is a relatively young whippersnapper in the grand scheme of marathoning history. The first race was held in 1981, which means in 2024, we just celebrated the 43rd running of this epic event! Back then, participation was a cool 7,747 runners – a far cry from the staggering 840,318 who applied for the 2025 race (yikes!).
Fun Fact: The very first London Marathon was actually won by an American, Dick Beardsley, and a Norwegian, Inge Simonsen, in a dramatic photo finish.
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So, Why Should You Care About the Number?
Here's the thing: knowing how many London Marathons there have been is like knowing how many licks it takes to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop – a completely pointless fact that somehow becomes incredibly interesting. But hey, it's a conversation starter, right?
Plus, the number reflects the growing popularity of the race. From a small gathering of running enthusiasts to a global phenomenon, the London Marathon has become a test of endurance, a fundraising powerhouse, and a source of inspiration for millions.
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How to Get Involved: Because Running Like Forrest Gump Might Not Be Your Thing (But It Could Be!)
Even if pounding the pavement for 26.2 miles isn't your cup of tea (or Lucozade), there are plenty of ways to get involved with the London Marathon. Here are a few:
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- Cheer from the sidelines: The atmosphere on race day is electric! Grab your Union Jack and a hoarse voice, and become part of the incredible support system for the runners.
- Volunteer: From handing out water to managing the crowds, volunteers are the backbone of the event. You get to be part of the action and witness the amazing feats of human endurance firsthand.
- Donate to a charity runner: Many participants raise money for good causes. Find a runner supporting a cause close to your heart and donate – you'll be helping them reach their finish line (and fundraising goal!).
Bonus FAQ: How to Become a London Marathon Running Legend (Sort Of)
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How to enter the London Marathon? The application process is notoriously competitive, but there are various ways to enter, including the ballot, charity places, and qualifying times. Check out the official London Marathon website for details https://www.tcslondonmarathon.com/.
How much does it cost to run the London Marathon? Entry fees vary depending on how you qualify, but expect to pay a few hundred pounds.
How to train for the London Marathon? Don't just wing it! There are tons of training plans available online and through running groups. Remember, slow and steady wins the race (or at least gets you to the finish line).
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How to win the London Marathon? Unless you're secretly a disguised Kenyan distance runner, this one might be a tough ask. But hey, nobody said dreaming big was a bad thing!
How to avoid getting lost during the London Marathon? The course is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with it beforehand. Plus, following the crowd usually works wonders.
So, there you have it! The next time someone asks about the London Marathon, you'll be a trivia whiz with a dash of humor. Now, lace up those shoes (or grab your pom poms) and get ready to be part of this incredible event!
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