March 29th, 1981
The first London Marathon took place. Organised by John Disley and former Olympic steeplechaser Chris Brasher, they were inspired to start the British event after taking part in the New York City Marathon.
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(picture: Getty Images)
In 1981, 6,255 runners finished the race, with American Dick Beardsley and Norwegian Inge Simonsen tying for first place. Joyce Smith broke the British record to win the women’s race.
Over the past three decades, three-quarters of a million runners have taken part in the London Marathon, raising more than £500 million for charity.
Learn more about the history of the London Marathon here.
