2024 London Marathon Preview: A Deep Dive into the Anticipated Event

With the 2024 London Marathon drawing near, anticipation is high for what promises to be an exceptional event. Scheduled to take place in the English capital on Sunday, April 21st, this marathon has garnered attention for the possibility of witnessing record-breaking performances, particularly with “the fastest elite women’s field ever assembled in marathon history,” as proclaimed by the organizers.

According to Hugh Brasher, the event director, the lineup for the women’s elite field is set to feature remarkable talents such as Brigid Kosgei, Ruth Chepngetich, Peres Jepchirchir, Yalemzerf Yehualaw, and Tigst Assefa. Brasher expressed his excitement about the current era of women’s marathon running, highlighting the progression from Paula Radcliffe’s legendary world record to the impressive feats achieved by athletes like Tigst Assefa.

He stated, “When Paula Radcliffe ran her incredible world record of 2:15:25 at the 2003 London Marathon, we had to wait 16 years for Brigid Kosgei to beat it.” Brasher continued, “But since then, a further four women have run faster than Paula’s time including Tigst Assefa, who lowered the world record even further with her stunning run in Berlin last year.”

Despite the formidable competition, including athletes who have clocked times under 2:17:30, Brasher believes that Mary Keitany’s women ‘s-only world record of 2:17:01, set at the 2017 London Marathon, could be under serious threat in the upcoming race.

Turning to the men’s elite field, seasoned runners such as Kenenisa Bekele, Tamirat Tola, Geoffrey Kamworor, and Leul Gebresilase are expected to showcase their talents. Bekele, in particular, expressed his belief that a sub-2:00 marathon may now be within reach, reflecting on the evolution of marathon running and the challenges of training at different stages of one’s career.

Marathon organizers also plan to pay tribute to the late Kelvin Kiptum, who tragically passed away at the age of 24 in a car accident earlier this year. Kiptum, a rising star in the sport, will be remembered with 30 seconds of applause before the elite men’s race begins. His remarkable achievements, including a record-breaking victory at the London Marathon in 2023, have left an indelible mark on the running community.

The schedule for the marathon includes the elite wheelchair races, followed by the elite women’s race and the mass start for all participants. The fastest elite wheelchair athletes are expected to cross the finish line first, with the elite women’s winners anticipated to complete the course shortly thereafter.

With a star-studded lineup featuring elite athletes from around the world, the 2024 London Marathon promises to deliver exhilarating performances and potentially historic moments. As runners prepare to test their limits on the iconic streets of London, the stage is set for a memorable day of competition and achievement.