Gloucester’s Sir Alastair Cook was among thousands who triumphantly crossed the London Marathon finish line on Sunday, sharing the spotlight with a host of well-known personalities. Alongside Cook, celebrities including Tilly Ramsay, fitness icon Joe Wicks, Sir Anthony McCoy, singer Alexandra Burke, Daddy Pig, and actress Cynthia Erivo showcased their endurance and determination in the iconic 26.2-mile race.
Under pleasant high-teen temperatures, runners flooded the Mall’s finish area, celebrating with high-fives and cheers. BBC broadcaster Sophie Raworth and former British No.1 tennis player Laura Robson also successfully completed the demanding course.
Running for the Ruth Strauss Foundation, Sir Alastair finished in an impressive time of roughly three hours and five minutes, ranking 4,079th overall and 654th in the 40-44 male category. Reflecting on his experience, he highlighted the finish line as the race’s most rewarding moment. “Seeing the number of supporters out there was incredible,” he said. “Spotting my son Jack and family at mile 20 didn’t push me to go faster, but it was a special boost.”
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Comparing marathon running to cricket, Cook remarked, “Cricket’s easy — if you’re not performing, you sit out. Here, there’s no hiding place.”
Oscar-nominated actress Cynthia Erivo completed the marathon in a personal best of three hours and 21 minutes, shaving 14 minutes off her previous time from 2022. Despite an exhausting run, she embraced the challenge. “There was a moment I doubted I’d finish, but I found strength and I’m proud,” she said. Erivo, who stands out by performing all 23 roles in the stage production Dracula, plans to rest briefly before returning to the Noel Coward Theatre for her evening show.
Reflecting on a potential two-day format for next year’s marathon, Erivo expressed enthusiasm but admitted she might just be a spectator. She shared her love of running as a mental escape — a chance to meditate and connect with herself.
The event also featured beloved children’s character Daddy Pig and Joe Wicks, “The Body Coach,” who completed the marathon in five hours and 51 minutes while raising funds for the National Deaf Children’s Society. Their participation highlighted a touching storyline involving George Pig’s moderate deafness. Wicks praised Daddy Pig’s dedication, especially in challenging warm conditions, and enjoyed the crowd’s affection for the character. Addressing social media speculation, Wicks clarified that there is no person inside the Daddy Pig costume — it is simply the beloved pig himself.
The London Marathon once again combined athleticism, celebrity spirit, and heartfelt causes, creating an inspiring and unforgettable day for participants and supporters alike.