Running Challenges FAQs
Every year the NDCS have guaranteed places for the Flora London Marathon and the Great North Run. We get asked lots of questions about running for the NDCS, so to help you, we've answered the most frequently asked questions on this page. If you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to email the Challenge Events team.
- How do I register for the Flora London Marathon or the Bupa Great North Run?
- How much is the registration fee for the Flora London Marathon?
- How much is the registration fee for the Great North Run?
- How much do I have to pledge to raise for the NDCS to take part in the Flora London Marathon?
- How much do I have to pledge to raise for the NDCS to take part in the Great North Run?
- How old do you have to be to take part in the Bupa Great North Run?
- How old do you have to be to take part in the Flora London Marathon?
- What happens if I can’t raise the money?
- What happens if I need to pull out due to injury?
- What support do I get from the NDCS?
- Does the NDCS organise accommodation the night before the run?
How do I register for the Flora London Marathon or the Bupa Great North Run?
Register online at Flora London Marathon
Register online at Great North Run 2008
How much is the registration fee for the Flora London Marathon?
The registration fee for the Flora London Marathon is £50. This is non-refundable should you not be able to compete in the event.
How much is the registration fee for the Great North Run?
The registration fee for the Great North Run is £20. This is non-refundable should you not be able to compete in the event.
How much do I have to pledge to raise for the NDCS to take part in the Flora London Marathon?
The minimum sponsorship total is £1,500. The total amount is due one month after the event.
How much do I have to pledge to raise for the NDCS to take part in the Great North Run?
The minimum sponsorship total is £350. The total amount is due one month after the event.
How old do you have to be to take part in the Bupa Great North Run?
The minimum age is 17.
How old do you have to be to take part in the Flora London Marathon?
The minimum age is 18.
What happens if I can’t raise the money?
The NDCS has a dedicated team of fundraising experts to help you reach your target, you can call us any time and we’ll help you with tips and ideas – it’s very rare that people can’t make their target. However if you do fall short of your sponsorship target, you will have to make up the money owing yourself. The NDCS do offer bridging loans though - any money that you have paid in yourself can be refunded to you once you have raised the money owing through fundraising.
What happens if I need to pull out due to injury?
If you do need to pull out because of injury, there is the option that we can hold your place for the race the following year. Please let us know as soon as you discover that you will not be able to take part, in order to give us time to organise a replacement runner.
What support do I get from the NDCS?
We prepare you for the big day, give you lots of advice on training and fundraising, cheer you along the way, and have a warm welcome for you at the finish, complete with a complementary massage to soothe your aching muscles.
Does the NDCS organise accommodation the night before the run?
No, you must arrange this yourself. It is a good idea to book overnight accommodation for yourself, and any friends and family who are supporting you, as soon as you register, as it can get booked up near the events.