Hugh Brasher, London Marathon CEO said: “A world record 840,318 people entered the ballot for this year’s TCS London Marathon (a 43% increase on 2024) which highlights both the huge appeal the event has to people around the world but also the fact that more people are wanting to take part in mass participation events than ever before.
Gen Z could be driving the capital’s recent running boom, as experts say “running is the new clubbing” for young people.
“The benefits of running communities stretch beyond fitness, offering members social interaction which helps with mental health and safety as some people do not feel confident running on their own.”.
Head of Royal Parks Half Marathon, Liz Tack, said: “It’s incredible to see the demand for this year’s ballot and to break the record we set last year.
Whether it’s to stay active, to improve their mental wellbeing, to create friendships, or to cut costs on expensive gym memberships, Gen Z is certainly making their mark in the running world.