There’s something uniquely electric about the London Marathon. With over 56,000 runners crossing the finish line of the punishing 42-kilometre course, it’s a spectacle that must be seen to be believed.

The day begins with awe as the elite wheelchair athletes blaze through the streets, showcasing phenomenal upper-body strength and determination. Then come the elite men and women runners—extraordinary athletes whose effortless, long strides make 42 km look deceptively easy.

But the heart of the marathon lies with the masses: everyday heroes who’ve secured their place through a fiercely competitive ballot or chosen to run for charity. Each would have trained for months. Some glide through the course, others battle every step—but each runner is an inspiration.

Behind every one of them stands a network of family and friends, taking on their household load so they can train, offering encouragement, logistical support, and love. Their role in this journey is just as vital, often unseen and completely under-appreciated.

And then there are the spectators turning up in their thousands lining London’s iconic streets, often six-deep, armed with handmade signs and enthusiasm. They cheer not just for their loved ones but for strangers, offering energy and kindness with every shout and clap. On this day, London doesn’t feel like a sprawling metropolis—it feels like a community.

Of course, a special kind of respect is owed to the brave (and slightly mad) runners in costume. As if 42km weren’t challenging enough, they do it in fancy dress, often for a cause greater than themselves. They bring colour, laughter, and even more heart to an already extraordinary day.

Here are just a few of those unforgettable legends in costume…

(Text polished by ChatGPT)