Reasons to run the Virgin London Marathon

Year after year, thousands of runners are motivated to take part in the gruelling 26.2-mile London Marathon course. There are plenty of reasons why runners opt to participate including some of the following:

An open-to-all marathon
The Virgin London Marathon is more than just a marathon race around the historic city of London. Being open-to-all, with everyone from elite athletes to people running in fancy dress, this all adds to one superb day with a party atmosphere. The continued success of the London marathon is testament to its mix of participants from all walks of life, which sees first time marathoners sharing the same running course as elite marathon runners. Inclusivity is what makes the Virgin London Marathon such a great event.

Reaching a goal
Running a marathon is for many a once-in-a-lifetime ambition. The dedication to months of hard training make it something to really be proud of. Race day offers a wonderful experience, with all the sights and sounds of London, including brilliantly supportive crowds. Once you run in a London Marathon, it is an inspiring, and in some cases, life-changing event that will stay with runners forever. Setting a personal goal of running the Virgin London Marathon is a commitment to fitness and is achievable with the correct preparation and dedication.

Run for a worthy cause
The popularity of the Virgin London Marathon means that entry into the race is decided through a ballot system.  For those marathon runners that miss out through the ballot, there is still the possibility of getting a marathon by running for a charity. Teaming up with a charity, gives runners the chance to not only complete a marathon, but also to raise funds for charity through sponsorship and other means. Every year there are thousands of inspiring charity stories at the London Marathon, as runners do their best to fulfil their fundraising promises. The finish line can be an emotional experience for both runner and specatator.

A great day out
The Virgin London Marathon provides a great day out for both runners and their families, who will find plenty to see and do other than just looking out for their loved one running. With plenty of attractions for non-runners too, including live music along the route, the Virgin London Marathon is a fun and celebratory day that won't fail to give everyone involved a great day out. The race also offers a good excuse for booking an extended weekend in London to enjoying everything that London has to offer.

Making lasting friendships at the Flora London Marathon
Whether meeting up at the London Marathon Expo or rubbing shoulders with fellows at the start line, the Virgin London Marathon provides a great opportunity to make new friends and forge some lasting friendships. The marathon experience brings thousands of runners and their families together, who all have one thing in common, The Virgin London Marathon! Over the years, the race has created some lasting friendships - and in some cases, marriages - so what better place to meet up with people who all share a common interest and goal.

With its mix of awe-inspiring stories, inclusivity and enthusiastic spectators all along the entire route, the Virgin London Marathon really is the marathon race to get involved with. In offering a superb experience for runners of all abilities and spectators too, the Virgin London Marathon provides a day that you simply won't forget in a hurry!