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First London Marathon Unites 7,500 Amid Rain

3/30/2026

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Story summary
  • The first London Marathon occurred on March 29, 1981, with about 7,500 participants.
  • Dick Beardsley and Inge Simonsen finished together, but Beardsley was awarded second place.
  • Joyce Smith won the women's race, finishing 138th overall in 2 hours 29 minutes 56 seconds.
  • Inspired by the New York Marathon, the event aimed to unite people in endurance despite rainy weather and rising crowd support.