Image from London Broadcasting Company (LBC Radio). Which we love to listen!
33 years ago, 7,747 pairs of feet pounded along 26 miles of London’s streets; 6.255 pairs of feet completed the course, and a phenomenon was started! The first London Marathon was such a huge success that it’s now become permanent fixture in London’s calendar of events.
In 1981, the first London Marathon resulted in a dead heat between Dick Beardsley and Inge Simonsen, and Joyce Smith, a 43-year-old mother of two, won the women’s race. Today, the race attracts pleasure and competitive runners, famous names and celebrities from around the world. This year is no exception; amongst the 30,000 runners this year, keep an eye out for footballer, Michael Owen, and Lewis Moody, former England rugby union player; then there’s James Cracknell , record-breaking Olympic rower, Charlie Webster, the presenter, and Amy Willerton. Not forgetting, of course, double London 2012 Olympic gold medallist, Mo Farrah, who is aiming to not only complete the London Marathon (he collapsed a month ago in New York), but to also beat Steve Jones’ British record which stands at 2 hours, 7 minutes and 13 seconds which he set in 1985. But for many, taking part in the London Marathon isn’t about fame and fortune; it’s about raising money for their charity, it’s about achieving an ambition, it’s about grit and determination, and it’s about staying the course… oh, and there’s the wonderful array of outfits and costumes – what brave people if we get the predicted warm weather!
Even if you don’t know someone that’s competing in the marathon, everyone taking part needs your support! So, where are the best places from which to watch the race? The race starts at Greenwich and this area will be packed with spectators and supporters; at two points on the course, the race doubles back on itself at Mile 13 and Mile 22 on The Highway – get yourself a good position on the central reservation! Move on to Mile 16 and Westferry Road; this point is more than half way and when the Marathon tests just how determined you really are! At Mile 24, Blackfriars Underpass, there is just 2 miles to go; catch the race leaders as they continue to dig deep and keep those feet pounding!
Wherever you decide to watch the London Marathon and marvel at the courage of the masses of runners, take heart; it could be you next year, if you’re brave enough!
At Airport Pickups London, we will be supporting every runner of the London Marathon and continue to provide our customers with the best, innovative taxi transfer service you can find and trust, at extremely competitive rates.