London Marathon 2016 ballot: how to enter the race next year

 
Rachel Blundy28 April 2015

As almost 38,000 people prepare to take on the 26 mile race through London today, the more adventurous among you might be considering whether to take part next year.

The ballot for the London Marathon 2016 opens to applicants on May 4 and will close again at 5pm on May 8.

Competition for places is notoriously high, so you'll need to keep your fingers crossed that you get selected.

Participants must agree to a long list of terms and conditions which can be found online here.

One of the ballot rules states that anyone who wins a place in the marathon but subsequently cancels their application will still be liable for a fee.

The rules also state that runners cannot transfer their place to another athlete once selected.

Applicants can try to obtain a charity entry to the race if they have a good cause they would like to raise money for. The registration fee is between £50-100 and some charities ask that you raise at least £2000. Some £53.2 million was raised for charity at last year's event.

Meanwhile, more accomplished runners can apply for a 'Good for Age' entry if they have previously run a marathon in a particularly fast time. This category is only open to UK runners.

Athletes who are members of a British Athletics Club can apply to run in the race through their team. There is also a separate entry system for disabled athletes hoping to race in a wheelchair.

London Marathon 2015: some of the best outfits and costumes

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This year about 37,800 fund raisers, amateur runners and elite athletes are taking on the challege, making it the biggest in the event's 35-year history.

Guinness has received more than 100 requests from entrants who want to attempt a new world record. These range from the fastest marathon wearing high heels to the quickest time dressed as a framed painting.

The races start at Blackheath and Greenwich Park from 9am and end on The Mall.

For more information about the 2016 ballot visit www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com.

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