Exciting news for all runners and marathon enthusiasts – The Sussex Beacon is offering more places for next year’s Virgin Money London Marathon than ever before. The iconic London Marathon, which will take place on Sunday, 28th April 2019, is recognised as one of the world’s greatest marathons and annually attracts 750,000 spectators to the capital’s streets. It is a unique and inspiring event that offers a wonderful course, supportive crowds and even the possibility of appearing on national TV!
Places to run the 26.2 mile race are notoriously hard to get, and the 2019 race has been no exception. The Virgin Money London Marathon already broke its own world record this year after an incredible 414,168 applicants from the UK and overseas registered for a ballot place in next year’s event. Whilst the public ballot entry system for the 2019 Virgin Money London Marathon has now closed, runners still have the opportunity to run the marathon for a charity. The Sussex Beacon, Brighton’s leading HIV charity, has welcome news for those still hoping to take part in the 2019 race. “This year, we are delighted to have 9 places in the London Marathon. That’s 9 Team Beacon runners who could make a huge contribution to our services and change the lives of those living with HIV who need our specialist care and support”, says Rosie Hemming, Challenge Events Coordinator at The Sussex Beacon.
How running the Virgin London Marathon can help the Sussex Beacon
Running a marathon is certainly no easy task, and requires many months of training, dedication and willpower. By running the London Marathon for The Sussex Beacon, runners join the charity’s ‘Team Beacon’, a network of fellow runners and staff who are there to offer support from the moment they sign up, all the way through to the finish line. Each runner is asked to fundraise a minimum of £1,500 (excluding Gift Aid), and the charity’s fundraising team is always on hand to support its runners hitting their targets. Every penny raised by Team Beacon is vital income for The Sussex Beacon to continue offering its important services for people living with HIV, so that those who need care can receive outstanding medical treatment and emotional support from the charity’s specialist HIV doctors and nurses.
Martin Harrigan, who competed in the race in 2016, says:
Participating in the London Marathon is an incredible achievement and as a previous Team Beacon runner myself, standing on the start line with thousands of others running for good causes knowing that your fundraising will make a difference, really was something special. Running for the Sussex Beacon gave me that added motivation to keep on pushing when I was feeling tired and helped ensure I gave everything to get to the finish line. It’s an experience that I will never forget!
Any runners who are interested in taking part in the spectacular 2019 Virgin Money London Marathon are asked to apply for a place by contacting Rosie Hemming on 01273 694222 – extension 224, or email rosie.hemming@sussexbeacon.org.uk
© Bettina Zenz
