White City Place were delighted to host the Original Marathon last Saturday. 150 participants retraced history as they took on the Original Marathon VIII, starting the legendary 1908 Olympic marathon route in Windsor Castle and finishing at White City Place.

The event, which marked International Women's Day, doubled its number of entrants from last year. This change was made to symbolise the women who were unjustly excluded from the 1908 race and those who had to wait another 76 years to compete in an Olympic marathon.

The 26.2-mile distance became the global standard after the London 1908 Olympic Games, where the race route was set to accommodate a royal request: starting inside Windsor Castle and ending in front of the royal box at White City Stadium, where White City Place now stands

During the original 1908 race, Italian runner Dorando Pietri captured worldwide attention. Leading into the stadium, he took a wrong turn, collapsed five times, and crossed the finish line first—only to be disqualified after officials assisted him. In recognition of his effort, Queen Alexandra presented him with a special cup.

This year’s race saw an inspiring mix of runners, including Paralympics GB double gold medallist Richard Whitehead MBE. Whitehead, who has pledged to run 20 marathons in 2025 to bring his career total to 100, described the event as "extra special" due to its historical significance.

In partnership with the London-based charity Aspire, the event helped raise funds to support people who have been paralysed by spinal cord injuries.

White City Place were delighted to host such an iconic event. Congratulations to all those who participated!

For more information or to donate to Aspire, click here. To read more about The Original Marathon, click here.