Support on Marathon Day
You’ve trained, you’ve chatted and you’ve shared your marathon hopes and dreams, but it’s on Marathon Day that being part of a charity team really comes into its own. Of course, different charities will offer different things, depending on their size and resources, but you should expect to be supported at every stage of the event.
Before the marathon
Most charities will give you a T-shirt or vest with its logo on to wear on the day, and if it’s wet or cold, some will provide protective clothing, such as waterproofs, caps or ponchos to wear while you wait for the off. Make sure you bring your own clothing too though – you’ll be able to leave your kitbag at the baggage trucks before the marathon starts and pick it up at the Finish Line.
During the marathon
Most charities will have cheering points around the Virgin Money London Marathon course, where their supporters will offer plenty of encouragement from the sidelines – this should give you a huge boost and keep you motivated when the going gets tough.
Some charities will also offer help to any friends and family who come to support you. They can give tips, such as where the best place to watch the action is, and provide them with clothing, flags, balloons – anything that helps promote the charity and spurs on the runners.
After the marathon
Although you’ll be buzzing when you cross the Finish Line, there are also some practicalities to consider, such as where you can meet up with friends and relatives and collecting your kitbag. Many charities will provide a reception area just a few metres from the finish to help guide you through this part of the day.
Some charities will also provide a post-race package to help you unwind – you could look forward to a massage, shower, food and drink, or even just a celebratory chat with your charity’s other runners – you’ll be bursting to tell each other your Marathon Day stories!