You Don't Need Running Shoes, Just Grab Your Popcorn: How to Watch the London Marathon 2024 Like a Pro (or Pro-ish)
The 2024 London Marathon is upon us, folks! Get ready for a day of cheering, gasping (at those uphill sections - ouch!), and maybe even shedding a tear or two (hopefully tears of joy, unless you accidentally backed a rogue squirrel in the mascot race). But before you start prepping your "Go Bananas for Brianna!" sign (we all have that one friend...), here's the lowdown on how to snag the best seat on the couch, virtually speaking, to witness this epic race.
Channel Surfing Like a Champion: Your Televised Options
- For the Brits Out There: Raise a cuppa to the BBC! They'll be showing the marathon live and free on BBC One from 8:30 am BST, switching over to BBC Two for the thrilling final hour at 2 pm.
- Not-So-Secret Agent Streamers: Catch all the action online via the BBC Sport website and BBC iPlayer. Bonus points for yelling at the screen from the comfort of your pajamas.
Pro Tip: Want to see your mate valiantly hobbling along at mile 18? Check out the live streams from Tower Bridge and the Finish Line on BBC iPlayer - you might just catch their glorious struggle (or triumphant stride, fingers crossed!).
Across the Pond and Beyond: International Viewing Options
Fear not, friends across the globe! The London Marathon is a spectator sport in the best sense of the word (meaning you can watch from anywhere with an internet connection and a shred of enthusiasm). Here's a quick guide:
- USA: Lace up your virtual running shoes and head over to FloTrack. A subscription is needed, but hey, seeing the world's best runners battle it out is practically priceless (well, almost).
- Everywhere Else: Don't fret, marathon fanatics! The official London Marathon website has a handy dandy list of international broadcasters. Just do a quick search and you'll be cheering alongside fans worldwide.
Remember: Time zones are a thing, so check the start times for your neck of the woods.
FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered (Probably)
How to avoid accidentally cheering for a squirrel instead of an actual runner? Stick to the human-shaped figures. Trust us, the squirrels have their own cheering section (it's intense).
How to make sure you have enough snacks for the whole race? This is a marathon, not a sprint! Stock up on the good stuff - popcorn, pretzels, maybe even some fancy cheese (treat yourself!).
How to convince your significant other that watching the marathon is "educational"? Let's be honest, it's about human endurance and peak athleticism. Educational, right?
How toCELEBRATE when your friend finally crosses the finish line? Socially distanced high fives, celebratory dance moves, or maybe even baking them a victory pie (because carbs are champions).
How to NOT get swept up in the emotional rollercoaster of the race? Impossible. Just embrace the feels.
So there you have it! Now you're armed with the knowledge (and hopefully some snacks) to fully enjoy the 2024 London Marathon. Get ready for an epic day of athletic feats, inspirational stories, and maybe even a few laughs. After all, who doesn't love watching people run 26.2 miles while you devour a bag of chips?
