Lace up for a flat run through Hackney and the iconic Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. After 2026's sell out event, join Team Marsden and see what the buzz is all about!
This 13.1 mile flat run starts in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and speeds along through East London city streets. With live bands and entertainment throughout the course. This isn't just a race, it's a full-on festival.
• Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive one to one support from a dedicated member of the charity team to help you with your fundraising efforts and to answer any questions you may have as you prepare for the big day.
• You’ll also have access to our professional half marathon training plans to encourage you to start logging those miles. Whether it’s your first big race or you’re a seasoned runner, our plans will help structure your training to make sure you are ready for the challenge.
• When you register, you will also be able to join our Team Marsden Runners Facebook group. Our fun, friendly and supportive online community will be there to support you all the way, share top tips and advice and keep you motivated in the run up to the event.
If you have your own place for the 2026 event, you can still join Team Marsden today and make a difference to the lives of people with cancer around the world.
1. Start within Hackney Marshes
2. Race down Homerton Road and through to Homerton High Street
3. Go round Hackney Downs and up towards Dalston
4. Pass the iconic Hackney Picturehouse and head towards Haggerston
5. Run towards Broadway Market and pass London Fields
6. Continue along Victoria Park and towards Hackney wick
7. Finish your race back at Hackney Marshes and enjoy the event festival.
Your registration includes:
• Your race bib and welcome pack sent prior to the day, including your very own Royal Marsden Cancer Charity running vest.
• Fundraising support and advice from a dedicated member of staff at The Royal Marsden and access to our supportive Team Marsden runners Facebook group.
• Professional training plans to help you prepare for the big day.
Ben took part in the Hackney Half Marathon in memory of his dad, Simon, on the 11th anniversary of his death.
"My father was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2011. The treatment and support he received at The Royal Marsden was beyond belief."
“The event was very special. The Royal Marsden cheer squad were fantastic and it was great to see them supporting us all. It’s an emotional challenge and a brilliant way to support an amazing cause. I’d recommend the challenge to EVERYONE…even if you’ve never run before!!”
Thanks to supporters like Ben, we can continue to be there for everyone who needs us.
We’d love to keep you up to date with inspiring stories, the latest breakthroughs, and ways you can make a difference.
