What is the 2.6 challenge and how can I donate to the charity fundraiser?

A challenge has been set up for the date of this year’s London Marathon in a bid to fill a £4billion charity black hole.

The 2.6 Challenge - created by London Marathon Events, The Great Run Company, Human Race and parkrun - is designed for people to take part in activities based around the numbers 2.6 or 26 and raise money for charity.

What is the 2.6 challenge?

The postponement of the London Marathon, which will now take place on October 4, has been predicted to leave a £4billion shortfall in fundraising.

The race is the world’s biggest one-day annual fundraising event, raising £66.4 million for charities in 2019 alone.

So, using the 26.2-mile marathon distance as a guide, anyone and everyone is being asked to participate in an activity such as running 2.6 miles or working out in a group of 26.

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“The 2.6 Challenge can be anything that works for you,” says Nick Rusling, co-chair of the Mass Participation Sports Organisers (MSO) group and CEO of Human Race.

“You can run or walk 2.6 miles, 2.6km or for 26 minutes. You could do the same in your home or garden, go up and down the stairs 26 times, juggle for 2.6 minutes, do a 26 minute exercise class or get 26 people on a video call and do a 26 minute workout – anything you like.

“We want people to get active, have fun and raise money to help Save the UK’s Charities by giving money or raising funds for the charity close to your heart.”

What date is it?

It all kicks off on Sunday, April 26, the original date of this year's London Marathon.

How can I donate?

It's very easy.

Just head over to the 2.6 challenge donate page to find the charity of your choice. You can also use JustGiving.

From there you can donate, even if you will not be doing the challenge.

Can I get involved?

Once you know what you 2.6 Challenge is, get your family and friends involved. Remember to use the hashtag #TwoPointSixChallenge on social media.

Hugh Brasher, event director of the London Marathon, said: “One of the founding pillars of the London Marathon was ‘to show how the family of mankind can be united’. We hope that The 2.6 Challenge will embody that spirit and inspire people, families and communities to fundraise for their chosen charity to help Save the UK’s Charities.

“Right now, our vulnerable members of society need the help of charities more than ever before. We are asking everyone to create a 2.6 Challenge of their own and raise funds or pledge a donation.”

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