59,000 runners, 93,024 energy gels and £100m for charity: the London Marathon is booming

A record-breaking 59,000 runners are set to participate in this year’s London Marathon, marking the largest field in the event’s history. The race is expected to raise nearly £100 million for charity, with participants consuming over 93,000 energy gels along the 26.2-mile course from Greenwich to the Mall. There are also speculations of a men’s world record attempt, underscoring the competitive excitement surrounding the event. The surge in participation reflects a broader running boom, particularly among young women and Generation Z, which has transformed the marathon into a cultural phenomenon. The popularity of the London Marathon has soared dramatically, with more than 1.1 million people entering the ballot this year—an increase of 750,000 compared to four years ago. Notably, a third of these entrants are aged 18 to 29, with women comprising the largest segment of this younger demographic. This shift highlights the growing appeal of running clubs and social media’s role in fostering community and motivation among new runners. The event’s expansion has prompted organisers to plan a two-day marathon in 2027, allowing up to 100,000 participants to take part. The running boom is reshaping the sport’s landscape, as illustrated by BBC presenter Sophie Raworth’s experience. Having started running relatively late, she was surprised by the large, diverse groups she encountered during training, signaling a new era where running is more inclusive and widely embraced. This surge in participation not only boosts charity fundraising but also promotes health and social connection, reinforcing the marathon’s significance beyond the race itself. The London Marathon continues to evolve as a symbol of endurance, community, and philanthropy on a global stage.