Take on the iconic London Marathon 2021 for Four Paws!
The 26 mile route will take you through London streets, passing many of the city’s landmarks as thousands line the course to cheer you on along the way.
Before you apply, here's what you need to know
We ask all charity place runners to pay a £100 non-refundable registration fee upon acceptance of their place and commit to the minimum fundraising target of £2,200.
We have one charity place and may offer it before the closing date if we find the right person.
What type of support will I receive?
- A dedicated FOUR PAWS fundraiser who can provide one-to-one support
- Full access to our fundraising materials including collection tins, posters and sponsor forms
- A technical FOUR PAWS running vest and iron on letters
- Fundraising support and coverage across our very own social media channels
- Opportunities to meet the FOUR PAWS team pre and post-race
- An amazing reception on the day from our small but MIGHTY team
What will my £2,200 fundraising target mean for FOUR PAWS?
Hitting your target or exceeding it (!) will help us reveal the suffering and rescue bears, big cats and other animals and protect them from future suffering. We have species appropriate sanctuaries in many countries such as Germany, Austria and Bulgaria. Our newest one has recently been expanded to accommodate up to 100 rescued bile farm bears in Vietnam. But it's not just bears, we also have three sanctuaries for big cats; LIONSROCK in South Africa, FELIDA in Netherlands and TIERART in Germany. Last but not least we also have a FOREST SCHOOL in Indonesia for orphaned baby orangutans.
Our teams also work extensively with stray animals and we have successfully closed down dog and cat meat slaughter farms as part of our campaign to end the dog and cat meat trade in Southeast Asia.
Your fundraising efforts will help us rescue and protect even more animals.
Our Runner, Emma, in 2019
Why did you choose FOUR PAWS UK?
I chose to run for FOUR PAWS because I love animals and wanted to use my run to do something good. I am passionate about animal welfare so what FOUR PAWS does around the world really strikes a chord with me. I felt I could use the run as an opportunity to raise some money for them whilst also raising awareness of what they do.
How did you find the support?
The support from FOUR PAWS was great - especially considering the small number of staff they have based in the UK. The support was personal and surpassed my expectations with Jo coming out to cheer me on, on the day, and even coming to find me at the finish line with gifts and a card signed by the team, I was very touched.
What was the best thing about running the marathon?
The best thing about running the marathon was the feeling of so many people coming together to cheer each other on - both the runners supporting each other at the start line and on the route, and the local people/other supporters who came out to cheer them all on. It was heart-warming to see such mutual support from such a cross-range of people genuinely supporting each other whoever they are and wherever they come from. I also felt really proud to wear the FOUR PAWS t-shirt and to be supporting them.
Frequently Asked Questions
See if you can find your answer below:
When does the London Marathon 2021 take place?
Sunday 3rd October 2021
What are we looking for in a charity place application?
We'll be taking into account your connection to our cause and motivation behind wanting to run the Virgin Money London Marathon for FOUR PAWS. We will also look at your fundraising goals and how you plan to raise money. Please be as detailed as possible in your application.
What type of support will I receive?
As our one and only charity place runner we will go above and beyond to make sure you feel supported every step of the way! (pun intended) You’ll have a dedicated fundraiser to provide you with tips on fitness, nutrition and how to raise those vital funds. With opportunities to meet the FOUR PAWS team and a reception as big and mighty as our small team can muster up on the day – you will not be disappointed!
Is a running vest provided by FOUR PAWS?
Yes, we have technical running tops in different sizes.
I have entered the ballot, when will I hear about my ballot results?
The public ballot results will be announced February 8th 2021.
What if I need to cancel my charity place application?
If you need to cancel your charity place please contact joanne.royston@four-paws.org.uk as soon as possible so your place can be re-allocated. We only have one charity place so need to make full use of it!
Will my £100 registration fee be refunded if I cancel my place?
Unfortunately we are not able to refund registration fees.
When do I have to raise the minimum sponsorship for my charity place by?
We would expect you to hit your minimum fundraising target 8 weeks after marathon day. Our fundraising team will be there to support you every step of the way with fundraising advice and materials. If you think might struggle, please contact us so we can support you with your fundraising or give you extra time if necessary.
What happens if I don't raise the minimum sponsorship my charity place?
It's incredibly important that each charity place runner meets the minimum sponsorship pledge, to help rescue and care for more animals. There is no legal obligation to make up the shortfall, but if you don't meet your target we can offer some extra time post-event to meet the fundraising requirement.
