FAQs for London Marathon Applicants
1. How do I apply for a charity place?
To apply for a charity place, please complete the application form, providing as much information as possible. You will need to provide details about your connection to World Cancer Research Fund and details about how you plan to fundraise.
2. When is the application deadline for a charity place?
Applications usually close by the end of August, but we reserve the right to close applications early once places have been filled. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible to maximise your chances of success.
3. When will I hear if my application has been successful?
We will be in touch within 10 working days of your application submission.
4. What is the fundraising target?
We ask each runner to commit to a minimum fundraising target of £2,750. This helps us fund vital cancer research and support programmes.
5. Is there a registration fee?
Yes, there is a £50 registration fee to secure your place once accepted.
6. What kind of support will I get with my fundraising efforts?
You’ll receive a comprehensive fundraising pack, regular emails with tips and ideas, access to our fundraising team for 1-to-1 advice, and resources such as sponsorship forms, posters, and social media assets.
7. Do I get a charity running vest?
Yes! All our runners receive a branded running vest. You can personalise it with your name to help the crowd cheer you on.
8. Will the charity provide any training support or plans?
Absolutely. You’ll receive training plans, access to expert advice from our team of Nutritionists and opportunities to attend training webinars.
9. Can I run in memory or celebration of someone affected by cancer?
Of course. Many of our runners take part to honour loved ones.
10. Will I have the option to share my story?
Yes, we often feature runner stories on our website, emails and social media. If you're interested in doing this, please mention this in your application.
11. Can I defer my place if I get injured or can’t run?
Deferrals are handled case by case and are subject to London Marathon’s rules. We’ll work with you to explore options, but deferment is not guaranteed.
12. What happens if I secure a place through the ballot after getting a charity place?
If you're lucky enough to get a ballot place after accepting a charity place, let us know. You can still run for us without a fundraising target and we’ll free up the charity place for another runner.
13. Are there cheer points on the day from the charity?
Yes! We’ll have cheer stations at key points along the route and your family and friends are welcome to join us at these points.
14. Is there a minimum age to apply for a charity place?
Yes, you must be 18 or older on race day to participate.
15. Can I run as part of a team or with friends also running for the charity?
Absolutely. Just mention their names in your application and encourage them to apply too. We’ll do our best to keep teams together.
16. What makes a strong application for a charity place?
We look for passionate, committed fundraisers who can share a strong personal connection to our cause and clear fundraising ideas.
17. Are there any restrictions or conditions I should be aware of?
All runners must agree to our fundraising pledge, commit to training responsibly, and adhere to the London Marathon’s code of conduct.
18. Can I transfer my charity place to someone else if I can’t participate?
Unfortunately, charity places are non-transferable under London Marathon rules. If you can’t take part, let us know as soon as possible.
