Marathon man aims to break graduation gown record

Chris Garratt will be wearing full graduation regalia as he tackles the course between Greenwich Park and The Mall [Gavin Kermack / BBC] As athletes from around the world enter their last few weeks of training before the 2026 London Marathon, one entrant is planning an academic twist on the race. Chris Garratt is planning to run the 26. 2 mile (42.

2km) course wearing full university graduation dress, in aid of student welfare at the university where he works. Garratt, who works at the University of Worcester, is hoping his effort will set a new world record for the fastest marathon run in a graduation gown - but he also has to wear a full suit underneath. "The only saving grace is I can wear trainers," said Garratt.

"When I first looked at it, I thought it would be quite easy," he added. "I have to wear the graduation gown itself, the mortarboard, and a graduation cape. "What I didn't realise is I also have to wear a full suit - so it's a three piece suit and a tie.

". The event will be the 50-year-old's sixth London Marathon - and his third world record bid. Garratt made an unsuccessful attempt to set a new record for running a marathon dressed as a lumberjack in 2023 [University of Worcester] In 2023, he attempted to set a new record for the fastest marathon run in a lumberjack outfit.