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Edinburgh Marathon - Edinburgh Running Festival

Fundraising Challenge Event

Run for Team OCA and raise life-saving money for ovarian cancer research

Run Edinburgh for Ovarian Cancer Action

Join Team Ovarian Cancer Action at the Edinburgh Marathon – a stunning, speedy route through one of the UK’s most beautiful cities. Whether it’s your first marathon or you're chasing a personal best, this fast and flat course is perfect for you.

The Edinburgh Marathon Route

Starting at McEwan Hall, you'll race through Edinburgh’s historic heart – past Greyfriars Bobby, over the Royal Mile, under the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, and through Princes Street Gardens.

Breathe in the views at Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Palace, before cruising down to the coast at Portobello. You’ll pass the world’s oldest golf course and the grand Gosford House before heading to the sea-view finish line in Musselburgh.

Edinburgh Marathon's "fast and friendly" route through the city

Edinburgh Marathon's "fast and friendly" route map

Event details

Date: Sunday 30th May

Start time: 08:00am

Type: Run

Distance: 26.2 Miles – Marathon

Edinburgh Marathon FAQs

We've answered some of your top questions about the Edinburgh Marathon below. For any other questions, please get in touch at fundraising@ovarian.org.uk or 020 7380 1730. Our friendly team is happy to help.

What support will I receive?

All runners will receive:

  • Access to training plans for all levels from the running experts at the Edinburgh Marathon.
  • A free Ovarian Cancer Action tech running vest – so you can show your support to everyone whilst you train and on the day.
  • Bespoke fundraising support from our dedicated team – materials, ideas, and advice to help you smash your fundraising target.
  • Improved fitness levels and the knowledge you have helped us to get closer to making ovarian cancer a survivable disease.

Is this event only for experienced runners?

The Edinburgh Marathon isn’t simply for experienced runners and Marathon regulars. The event is known for being very accessible and is often voted the fastest marathon in the UK, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced runners aiming for a personal best.

What does my fundraising support?

Your funds will help us to make faster progress towards making ovarian cancer a survivable disease. Every day, 12 women die of ovarian cancer. Your support will mean we are able to fund research that focuses on the prevention and treatment of ovarian cancer, transforming how long and how well women will live. Your fundraising will also help us to raise awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, so people know what to look out for, which saves lives.

Can you support me to fundraise?

Our friendly fundraising team is here to support you with your fundraising every step of the way. We can provide advice, materials, and ideas to help you smash your fundraising target. We allow our runners 4-6 weeks after the event to reach the minimum fundraising target, so there is plenty of time to collect sponsorship and raise as much as possible to support our vital work.

I think the Edinburgh Marathon is too far away from me

The event is a fantastic excuse for a weekend break in Auld Reekie, exploring Scotland’s historic capital city bursting with medieval history. Make the most of your adventure and take in the Old Town and the castle, or one of the huge selection of museums and galleries before the big day?

How do I pay in my money?

After all the hard work you’ve put into fundraising, it’s important that the money you raise supports the critical research that will transform futures for everyone affected by ovarian cancer.

Pay in your money online

If you’ve been collecting money through your own fundraising pages via platforms like Enthuse or Just Giving, then the money will be sent to us automatically.

Pay in your money by telephone

Call our Supporter Care Team on 020 7380 1730 to make your donation or contact fundraising@ovarian.org.uk with any questions.

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