Jo Whiley, Alexandra Burke, and Sophie Rayworth were among a field of 20,000 participants who collectively gathered over £18 million for charitable causes at the ninth London Landmarks Half Marathon held on April 12.

The fundraiser supported more than 500 charitable organisations, bringing the total amount raised since the inaugural event in 2018 to £85 million.

Competitors departed from the area adjacent to Downing Street and completed the 13.1-mile course past 16 notable London attractions, including Big Ben, the Shard, the Tower of London, the Gherkin, and concluded at Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square.

This year’s programme included the comeback of the Tommy’s Pink Wave, a specific group of participants dedicated to raising visibility and funding for Tommy’s, the maternal and infant welfare organisation that stages the race and provides assistance to families who have experienced pregnancy or baby loss.

One particularly eye-catching participant was Lisa Hale from Drayton in Oxfordshire, who donned an ovary costume in a bid to secure the Guinness World Record for the quickest half marathon completed in a female body part outfit.

BBC Radio 2 DJ Jo Whiley, competing in the event for the first time, commented that she had long wished to take part in this particular race, describing it as an important goal in her life. She noted that competitors had joined for their own individual motivations, whether running for a specific person, supporting a worthy cause, or for personal reasons. She remarked on the tremendous atmosphere and enthusiasm present, stating it felt like one of the finest running events to participate in.

Singer Alexandra Burke, returning for her second consecutive year, described the experience as absolutely remarkable and incredible, praising the tremendous encouragement received from Londoners lining the streets. She expressed pride in taking part for Tommy’s.

Additional famous faces in attendance included Clara Amfo, Tyler West, Molly Rainsford, Aimee Fuller, Sophie Rayworth, Caroline and Tom Bridge, AJ Pritchard, Tom Clare, and Casey O’Gorman.

Race director Lia Fyles described the day as spectacular, noting it remained her most anticipated event annually. She acknowledged the distinctive nature of the London Landmarks Half Marathon, emphasising that for many of the 20,000 participants it represented far more than a competition, with numerous individuals tackling the 13.1 miles for deeply meaningful personal reasons and fundraising for remarkable causes. She expressed pride in the event’s reputation for inclusivity and welcoming atmosphere, stating that witnessing runners from diverse backgrounds crossing the finish line was truly magical. She congratulated all participants and thanked supporters and volunteers, indicating anticipation for the 10th edition in 2027.

Stefan Otway completed the course in 1:08:31 to claim first place overall. Katya Kostrencic was the quickest female competitor, finishing in 1:22:13. Kombo Tunduwani with guide runner Warwick Hockley covered the distance in 1:49:45 to record the fastest time among visually impaired athletes. Ben Spencer topped the wheelchair category in 1:52:21.

The milestone 10th London Landmarks Half Marathon is scheduled for April 4, 2027, with registration now available at www.llhm.co.uk.