Richard C returns: "My memory has woken up and memories have flooded back. The most iconic yearly marathon held in this county was The Polytechnic marathon, ‘The Poly’. It ran from 1909 to 1997 Wilkipedia says that it ran over several courses in and around London before settling on Windsor to Chiswick.
I ran it in 1963, the changing rooms were the stables at Windsor castle….it was usually started by a royal. The race attracted the worlds best which resulted in 8 world records. I still have the programme (see, below)."
Richard P: "I believe, although before my time with Highgate, we hosted the first London Marathon on 19th September 1970 starting and finishing at Copthall."
Dave H: "I think the first London Marathon was in 1969 organised by Highgate Harriers.
Two Scottish brothers competed and one of them from memory Jim Wight won.
Also I believe our very own Richard Cox participated.
I was a Marshall around the 22 mile mark.
I did hesitate with the date but I think I'm right about the winner.
Also not 100% that Richard ran but I'm sure he will contact you if it's duff info."
Richard C: "Around 1980 Highgate Harriers decided to organise and host a marathon calling it the London Marathon. Martin was the main man behind it I think since he was involved in setting and measuring the course… which went along Totteridge Lane and and back via Copthall Stadium. It was put on with very little advertising resulting in a small field of around fifty. I think I remember that Martin also ran in it which was a surprise to see.
Hopefully Martin will reply with more accurate details……….was it won by Guy Ogden?"
Martin H: "I am well known for my poor memory but I do have some recall of the first London Marathon.
The first marathon around London streets was organised by Highgate Harriers. Approvals for this were difficult to obtain, but the problems were overcome. The race started and finished at Copthall Stadium (now StoneX - or has that name been changed?).
The race was called The Highgate Harriers Marathon and took place in 1968. The first winner was Bernie Allen. I ran in that race. The course was very hilly and slightly too long. Today it might be called an 'iron man' warm up-type of course. It would not be contemplated today.
Following the race I was given the job of helping to re-measure and map the course. I have the original template for the map for subsequent races.
Sponsorship was obtained from Booths London Gin and the event was re-named The London Marathon. The race continued until 1973.
Others within the club have more details and I expect that we may yet hear more of this breakthrough event."
