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Rock, paper, scissors game decides London Marathon race schedule

Published 6h ago · Updated 1h ago

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A playful game of rock, paper, scissors determined the elite race schedule for the next London Marathon.

Organisers of the London Marathon used a game of rock, paper, scissors to settle the starting order for the elite men's and women's fields. The unconventional coin toss alternative was chosen to resolve scheduling priorities for the multi-day event. Both elite races will take place as part of the expanded two-day format.

The traditional childhood game was played to establish whether the women's or men's elite race will be held first.
The upcoming London Marathon will span two days.
Event officials agreed to the casual contest to settle the order in a fair and lighthearted manner.

Why it matters

Major endurance racing events carefully schedule elite waves to maximise broadcast exposure and runner support, making start-order decisions crucial for organisers.