Record-breaker Weir gears up for 20th London Marathon

David Weir is synonymous with the London Marathon and the most successful athlete in the history of the race is already excited to compete at the event for a 20th consecutive year this April.

The six-time Paralympic gold medallist first took part in his home marathon back in 2000 – finishing fifth – and has gone on to win the event a record-breaking eight times.

The first of those triumphs came in 2002 and was followed by seven victories in the past 13 editions, as he crossed the line first in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2012, 2017 and 2018.

The 39-year-old even started his wheelchair racing career in the Mini London Marathon and as he announced plans for appearance number 20 on Sunday 28 April, Weir admits the event is always a highlight of his year.

“It’s amazing to be getting ready for my 20th race at the 2019 Virgin Money London Marathon,” he explained.

“It has been an incredible journey from my first London Marathon back in 2000 and I feel very proud that I have not missed a single race since that very first one.

“Every year I say to myself that even if I only do one race, it has got to be the London Marathon. It is such a special event for me.”

Weir won the T54 800m and 1500m at the Beijing 2008 Paralympics before adding four more Paralympic gold medals at his home Games in London in 2012 – including the marathon.

Last year, he announced his intention to compete in the marathon at Tokyo 2020 and add to his Paralympic medal haul.