Thousands of children participated in the TCS Mini London Marathon, sharing in the excitement of the London Marathon weekend.
The annual event saw 20,000 runners take part.
Distances in the Mini Marathon
The TCS Mini London Marathon, open to children from Reception age to Year 12, included either a mile or 1.6-mile distance.
Children could choose to jog, walk or wheel the course.
Young Runners’ Enthusiasm
Alicia, from south London, said she was “very excited” to run the Mini Marathon and had been training in her local parks. She also admitted to feeling “a bit nervous” as it was her first time taking part, but that she had friends running with her.
Eddie and Harry, from Enfield, planned to run the race together. Harry said he was feeling good and thought he would get a good time, adding that they both love running at school.
Another runner, Cameron, said he enjoyed trying to beat his own records when competing.
Schools Taking Part
A total of 600 London schools participated in the race.
Susie, from Surrey, expressed her excitement about taking part, saying she loves running and getting outside. Susie’s headteacher, Lesley Bailey, said she felt “so lucky” her pupils could participate in the children’s marathon.
“This is our second year of competing, and the children are so excited – there is such a buzz around the school community,” Lesley Bailey added.
She also noted the importance of children’s physical wellbeing.
The Route
The event started at Horse Guards Parade and finished on The Mall.
Alicia, who has asthma, trained for the race in her local parks.