As the largest-ever London Marathon approaches, the forecasted downpours loom like an unwanted guest. The Met Office has predicted that there is over a 50% chance of heavy rain from 7 am until 4 pm on Sunday. This year’s race, which features a whopping 45,000 participants, including 118 non-binary individuals, promises to be one of the most inclusive and diverse events of its kind. In an effort to foster a people-first atmosphere, the organizers have made provisions for free sanitary products for women and LGBTQ-friendly “carnival energy.”
Famous Faces: From Actors to Runners
A multitude of celebrities will take part in the marathon this year. Among them are actor Josh O’Connor, Marcus Mumford, the frontman of Mumford & Sons, and various actors from EastEnders, who will use the event to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK. Sir Mo Farah, Britain’s fastest marathon runner, is set to run in the elite race for the final time.
The Route and Event
The marathon’s 26.2-mile course will start from Greenwich Park and will take runners past several London landmarks before concluding near Buckingham Palace. The event aims to raise a whopping £60 million for charity. This year’s race will also feature a fundraising appeal for a new children’s cancer center by the Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity.
Spectator Safety and Awareness
With up to 50,000 Extinction Rebellion activists taking to the streets for the third day of their protest, spectators have been warned to avoid Parliament Square. While the climate group has assured that they do not plan to disrupt the marathon, organizers are taking precautions to ensure a safe event.
How to Watch
Those who wish to tune in to the elite races and the mass participation event can catch the live broadcast on BBC, Red Button, and iPlayer from 8:30 am onwards.
