Didn’t get into London Marathon? Here are 5 more great options!

Another year, another painful ‘Not this time’ message. It’s fine, you’re part of 100,000s who are feeling the same pain. London Marathon is the bucket list race for any runner in the UK, whether you “just” run it or are one of those trying to break a Guinness World Record – for example, Kellie Clark (female) who ran the fastest London marathon dressed as as a candy confectionery item (4:24:06). But don’t worry, you don’t need to rip up that 16 week marathon training plan up just yet.

London Marathon is a race with an amazing atmosphere and community spirit but there are hundreds of other marathons out there which have exactly this and you can be sure to get a place without the panic of a ballot.

With that, we’ve put together our top 5 marathons you can still do in 2023 and with Coopah’s coaching plans, you have enough time to train for them. Our training plans are fully personalised to you, so whether you need a sub 3 hour marathon plan or a beginner’s marathon plan we’ve got you covered.

Our TOP 4 marathon alternatives

Street Child Marathon

The Sierra Leone Marathon is a five-day adventure which will take you off the beaten track, all whilst showing you the beauty of Sierra Leone. The marathon route will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Northern Sierra Leone. Sierra Leone Marathon will provide you with a unique perspective on this beautiful country, all whilst challenging your body and mind. 

This trip is much more than just a marathon. You will have the opportunity to explore Northern Sierra Leone with like-minded individuals, attending workshops and discovering more about Street Child’s work. After running your race and a well-deserved rest that evening you then have the option to return home or continue your journey to one of Sierra Leone’s tropical beaches. Here you can spend time relaxing or take the opportunity to get to know your fellow runners from around the world. However you design your trip, one thing is for certain: the Sierra Leone Marathon will provide the adventure you are looking for.

Date: 26th April – 1st May

Sign up here!

Barcelona Marathon

Fancy a marathon in the Mediterranean?

On 19th March, a team of runners of all levels – will put themselves to the test. The magical Marató Barcelona!

Fancy doing it with a team? TRIBE X Coopah runners will be running together on the lead up to the marathon, with the goal to cut their Marathon PB by 10% (or set their first marathon time!). All fuelled by TRIBE natural plant energy and Coopah’s personalised training plans.

Over the upcoming months, we will train together as a team, holding each other accountable and pushing our limits to fight for freedom.

The TRIBE 10% Project Package will include:

• Race entry for Barcelona Marathon (worth £57).
• Bespoke five-month digital training plan and coaching from Coopah (worth £35). Plus regular in-person and virtual training sessions.
• Epic rewards from TRIBE & Coopah when you hit key fundraising milestones (worth £60+).
• Unlimited community support inc. group chats, fundraising advice and more.

To learn more and sign up head to the website.

Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon

In 2023, the very first Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon will take place! Former Leeds Rhinos player Rob Burrow was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in December 2019. Since then, Rob and his family have campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness and funds to support other families living with MND. And you help by taking part!

The Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon will see 7,777 participants take on a brand new route through Leeds that starts and finishes at Headingley Stadium. Taking in some of Leeds’ most scenic countryside and outer suburbs, the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon will be a fitting tribute to the city that launched Rob’s career and which he calls home.

This is an event that truly is for everyone, so whether you are an experienced runner or have never thought about running an event before, this marathon welcomes all abilities to join in this very special event.

The event will be held in support of the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Appeal as well as the MND Association. But you can also run for a charity of your own choice.

Date: 14th May

Sign up here!

Yorkshire Marathon

If there’s one thing Yorkshire people are, it’s proud of where they come from. From the very start of the race you will experience the true Yorkshire spirit which is one of the reasons it has been a monster success since day one. This race is growing year on year and it’s no surprise. From the locals out screaming your name in force, to seeing runners from all over the world wanting to come and experience the city of York whilst running through some beautiful Yorkshire villages.

The Yorkshire Marathon is a great race to smash your PB and is the perfect marathon for the first timer through to the experienced athlete.

We spoke with Tristan Batley-Kyle, Yorkshire Marathons Head of Events about why they love this race so much:

The Yorkshire Marathon is known as one of the UK’s most picturesque marathons – and when you see the course it’s easy to see why. Taking in the sights of the historic city of York as well as stunning Yorkshire countryside through the Vale of York, the race attracts thousands of runners from across the country and overseas to experience Yorkshire’s famous friendly crowds.

Starting at the University of York, you’ll run past famous landmarks such as York Minster and the ancient city walls, before heading out into the countryside, past quiet woodland and country villages and back to the University for the big finish. If you’re looking for a PB you’ll find plenty of opportunity here, with the course offering plenty of fast and flat sections.

We always say this is a marathon for everyone – whether you are an experienced runner or have never run a marathon before, you’ll find plenty of support from friendly fellow runners and supporters cheering you on. So whether you want to chase a PB, run for charity or set yourself a new challenge, the Yorkshire Marathon is certainly one to add to your bucket list.

Date: 15th October

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impact MARATHON – nEPAL

Join Impact Marathon for 7 days in Nepal. On this life-changing trip, we work directly with those changing the future of Nepal, and become part of the community.

Together, we will run tiny but magical trails, which climb up to 2300m of altitude. Running routes are technical, challenging, and mountainous but rewarding at the same time. Expect trails that run along spectacular ridge lines, before dropping down into the villages, in an attempt to make the course accessible to all and yet challenging all at once.

After a few days of exploring getting to know your fellow runners, learning about various local projects and helping local communities, on the sixth day, you will run your marathon! You will never be the same again.

A team of us at Coopah will be taking part in this life changing week, so make sure to let us know if you are going via run@coopah.com!

Dates: November 2023

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Training for your race

When it comes to training for your marathon, it is vital that you do the right training and we strongly recommend training for anything between 12 to 20 weeks.

At Coopah our training plans range from 6-24 weeks but we recommend starting with a 16 week training plan if you are already able to run half marathon distance, a 12 week training plan if you are already an experienced runner but want to go faster or train better or a 20 week training plan if you are currently new to running. We would advise the longer the better, as your body and mind will have longer to prepare and adapt.

All our plans are personalised and adapt as you train meaning you get personalised coaching for a fraction of the cost!

But it’s still not London?

Yes, we know you have dreams of doing London marathon and may still be discouraged that you didn’t get in the ballot for the 9th year running but a marathon is a marathon and these are fantastic alternatives with a brilliant atmosphere. Think about those spectators screaming your name and that medal round your neck whilst you tell everyone ‘I am a marathon runner’.

What are you waiting for?

Sign up today and experience that marathon feeling in 2023!

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