Five things every Marathon Marcher should know

Foundation

6 Sep 2024

Palace for Life Foundation's Marathon March returns next month – but what you might not realise is that there's plenty more to it than meets the eye!

Taking place on Saturday, 12th October 2024 – during the international break – scores of Palace supporters, staff and former players will come together at Selhurst Park to complete the huge annual fundraising challenge in aide of their local community.

It’s a marathon – but instead of running, They walk, talk, and make new friends and connections on the way.

Since 2016, Marchers have raised over £600,000 for the Foundation's range of good causes, directly supporting their work with vulnerable young people in South London. And with a record-breaking total of participants last year – 200 – and money raised – £102,000 – we need your help to make it even bigger in 2024.

Find out more about the event here – as well as five things every Marathon Marcher should know below!

1. 26.2 miles? No problem.

There’s no denying it’s a long way (that’s why we do it!) but it’s an achievable challenge. The Marathon March isn’t a running race, it’s a walk, and you’re encouraged to go at your own pace. Plus, there are plenty of stops along the way to sit down and refuel.

When you sign up, the Foundation will also send you a Marathon March specific training programme which has been designed by a qualified sports coach to help with your preparation.

2. First timer and flying solo? No big deal

Whether you’re marching for the first time or the eighth, there are at least two things every Marathon Marcher has in common: a love for Palace and South London. The Palace community is a welcoming and inclusive one, and you’ll be walking through many familiar landmarks which will no doubt spark conversation.

A lot of Marchers, and we’re expecting over 200 of them, tend to spend the time sharing their Palace memories or speculating about the rest of the season! Plus, if you need some downtime and want to do it alone for a bit, that’s fine too!

3. You'll get help with your fundraising

Fundraising can be daunting, especially in the climate we’re living in now. We know that asking friends and family to donate to your fundraiser isn’t always possible, but the Foundation are on hand to help you with that.

We have just launched a brand-new guide which includes tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your fundraising (you’ll receive this when you sign up) and there's also a team of fundraising experts who can help you with any questions you have.

What's more, there's the option to fundraise as a group, which many people opt for as it spreads the responsibility between you.

4. What if I get lost?

It’s very unlikely you’ll get lost! There will be hundreds of Palace fans in their matching shirts who you can follow.

There's a route map which you can download onto your phone, a physical map on arrival will also be available, and there are mile markers and directions across the entire route. There is also staff available in case you need to speak to anybody.

5. How long does it take?

It varies. But usually, most people find it takes them between seven and ten hours.

To sign up for the 2024 Marathon March, head here.

Still need more info? Here’s everything you need to know about the 2024 Marathon March.

Why should I do the Marathon March?

There are a few reasons why any Palace fan should sign up. Firstly, it’s to raise money for young people in south London.

The Foundation's tried and tested programmes help improve young people’s mental and physical health, advance their employment prospects, and support them with mental health challenges through mentoring.

We all love south London, but we know it can be tough growing up here. The Foundation's programmes are proven to work, but we need more funds to reach more people. The money you raise by doing the Marathon March helps us do exactly that.

Secondly, it’s good exercise! You don’t need us to tell you walking is great exercise. It’s a long way, but there are food, tea and coffee breaks and you’ll have the support and company of fellow Palace fans’ – many who have done it before and can give you their top tips!

Which leads us on to our third reason: Palace fans walking together.

Last year, over 200 people took part. That’s over 200 Palace fans of all different ages, backgrounds and fitness levels. Whilst everyone’s passion for walking might be different, everyone has something in common: Palace.

It’s a great chance to meet other fans, chat about your club and the ways that together, you’ll be making South London a better place for young people.

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