Why did you run the London Marathon?

Hi. I was just wondering about the many different reasons people but themselves through those gruelling 26 miles. Would be interested to know the various reasons other people have done it...

raising funds in the memory of a loved one

I did it for a few reasons.

1.) It was on my list of "things to do before you die".

2.) A friend died of breast cancer so I wanted to raise money to help in some small way to find a cure. I managed to raise £1800 for them so I am really pleased.

3.) I've always loved a challenge. When I decided to do FLM 07 my idea of exercise was watching it on TV. I still wouldn't call myself a runner but I completed the marathon and I am very proud of myself for that.

would be interesting to know how many people run for charity. Sounds like everyone!

my dad ran for charity and said it was the key thing that motivated him throughout his training and on the day

First time (2005): because I'd enjoyed my first half marathon (Robin Hood 2004) so much, and the very next day my "Shelter" newsletter dropped onto my doormat, offering charity places! It seemed like fate...

Second time (2007): try watching it on telly once you've run it! In my opinion there's only one place to be on FLM day, and that's in it. So I applied through the ballot and got in!

But basically I'm hopelessly addicted. Sandwiched in between those two was New York 2006, and I'm off to trot round Chicago in October. Owww! My knees!

why would someone not raise money for charity?

Well, it's obviously a contentious subject; of course it would be wonderful to raise upwards of £1,500 for every marathon you run! Personally, I think it depends how regularly you do them. Having raised money for both FLM05 and NYC06, I wouldn't have dreamed of asking my long-suffering friends to stump up again for FLM this year, and indeed Chicago in October. There's a danger they'll start to suffer from charity fatigue! Also, I suspect there's a law of "diminishing goodwill" once it becomes clear you can "do" marathons, and moreover actually enjoy it! The first time, people know you're going to suffer; three or four marathons down the line and they're less sympathetic.

Pidge
Well, it's obviously a contentious subject; of course it would be wonderful to raise upwards of £1,500 for every marathon you run! Personally, I think it depends how regularly you do them. Having raised money for both FLM05 and NYC06, I wouldn't have dreamed of asking my long-suffering friends to stump up again for FLM this year, and indeed Chicago in October. There's a danger they'll start to suffer from charity fatigue! Also, I suspect there's a law of "diminishing goodwill" once it becomes clear you can "do" marathons, and moreover actually enjoy it! The first time, people know you're going to suffer; three or four marathons down the line and they're less sympathetic.

I personally find raising £1500 for charity not hard to do, but can understand some people
would be daunted by it. I raised around £8,500 this year at FLM, and over £20,000 in the previous 5 years (not FLM ) You need a good strategy and the help of a good trusted friend to help you fundraise. You cannot train properly for a marathon and realise the full potential of fundraising yourself. You must get your appeal out to as many people as possible. Know about the work of your chosen charity, so you can talk to people and answer their questions.
People who sponsored me this year are already asking me about next year, and wanting to sponsor me.
Don't think that people who supported you this year and last year won't want to do so again next year. In most cases you will find that they will.