When Does The London Marathon Ballot Open

Alright, folks, let's talk about something that's got runners all over the UK buzzing with excitement - the London Marathon ballot! Now, you might be thinking, "Why should I care about some race ballot?" Well, let me tell you, this isn't just any race. It's the London Marathon, the one that's been inspiring us from our sofas every April since 1981.

Imagine it's a sunny Sunday morning, and you're tucked into your favourite armchair, cup of tea in hand, watching Mo Farah and Eliud Kipchoge battling it out on your telly. You feel that familiar pang of inspiration, that little voice whispering, "Maybe next year, it could be me out there." Well, my friend, that little voice is right. The London Marathon ballot is your chance to make that dream a reality.

So, when does this magical ballot open?

You'll want to mark your calendars for Tuesday, 26th April 2023. That's when the ballot for the 2024 Virgin Money London Marathon opens. It's like the start line of your own personal marathon journey, and it's right around the corner!

But wait, you might be thinking, "That's ages away! I won't remember to apply then." Well, don't worry, I've got a little trick for you. Why not set a reminder on your phone right now? You know, like how you set a reminder to water your plants or feed your cat. Except this time, it's a reminder to chase your dreams!

Why should you care about the London Marathon ballot?

You might be wondering, "Why should I bother with the ballot? Isn't it just a long shot?" Well, let me tell you, the London Marathon ballot is no ordinary lottery. It's a chance to be part of something truly special. It's a chance to run through the heart of our amazing city, past iconic landmarks, and across the famous finish line at The Mall.

It's a chance to raise money for a cause close to your heart, or to simply prove to yourself that you can push your boundaries. It's a chance to be part of a community of runners who understand the joy and the pain, the highs and the lows, of training for and running a marathon.

And let's not forget, the London Marathon isn't just about the elite athletes. It's about the everyday heroes - the people who've never run a marathon before, the people who've overcome incredible challenges, the people who run for a reason. It could be you this year!

How does the ballot work?

Now, you might be wondering how the ballot works. Well, it's pretty simple, really. You apply online, and then you wait. The ballot is open for five days, closing at 17:00 on Sunday, 30th April. Then, it's a waiting game. The results will be announced in October, and if you're lucky enough to get a place, you'll be running through the streets of London next April!

But remember, the ballot isn't the only way to secure your place. There are charity places, good for age entries, and even international tour packages. So, if you miss out on the ballot, don't lose hope. There are plenty of other ways to make your London Marathon dream a reality.

Why not give it a go?

So, there you have it. The London Marathon ballot opens on 26th April, and it could be your chance to make your marathon dream a reality. Why not give it a go? After all, as the saying goes, "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." And who knows, maybe next year, it'll be you out there, running through the streets of London, feeling like a superhero.

So, go on, mark your calendars, set your reminders, and start dreaming big. The London Marathon ballot is coming, and it could be your ticket to an incredible journey. Good luck, runners!