The 2021 Virgin Money London Marathon took place on Sunday 3rd October, two and a half years since it was last run. More than 35,000 runners tackled the iconic Greenwich to Westminster route, with many thousands more completing virtual marathons on the same day.
Millions of pounds have been raised for charity as a result - at a time when funds have never been more desperately needed.
More than 200 runners were participating on behalf of Brain Research UK - including both those running in London and those taking part virtually.
Most of those who run on our team have a strong personal motivation for supporting neurological research. Many have lost a family member or friend to a neurological condition, or someone close to them is living with such a condition. This spurs them on through the hundreds of miles of gruelling training.
"Thank you so much Brain Research UK for giving me a place on this brilliant team. It was a great honour to be part of such an amazing event and I will cherish this memory forever! This one was for my little sister Lucy who we lost to a brain tumor in 2017." Clare
Not only are runners juggling training with the demands of their everyday lives, but they are also working hard to raise funds. This year's runners have had to be more creative than ever, to raise funds in a Covid-secure way that ruled out many of the usual types of events. But they certainly succeeded - funds raised by our fantastic 2021 runners have already topped £400,000 - and the money is still coming in!
To boost their fundraising and help raise awareness, many of the team also got creative with their running attire Team member Neil Murphy even broke a world record with his costume - for 'Fastest marathon dressed as a three dimensional aircraft (male)', in a time of 04:27:44!
Our wonderful team also featured a brain, with accompanying scientist, a storm trooper, and a pair of bees, to highlight just a few.
But - as one of our runners pointed out - not all heroes wear capes, they wear Brain Research UK running vests! Fancy dress or not - everyone wore wonderful smiles - reflecting the joy and relief of training being over, the great atmosphere and camaraderie of this amazing event, and the beautiful October sunshine.
The 2022 London Marathon will once again take place in the Autumn - on Sunday 2nd October. The public ballot has now closed but we are accepting applications for our charity places.
As part of Team #BrainResearch, you will benefit from being part of an amazing and supportive community, sharing training and fundraising tips, supporting each other through the pain and the doubt, and celebrating the training milestones that are passed week by week. Most of all, you will be raising funds for vital research, to help those affected by neurological conditions. Find out how to apply.
"I can’t believe it’s over! Two years in the pipeline and it’s done! I had an absolutely fantastic day and loved (nearly!) every minute of it. It’s been an honour to be part of such a friendly and supportive team, where I feel I have got to know some truly inspirational people. I ran in memory of my dad, and he really did help me round." Beth.
