The London Marathon race is a long-running story. IT was first held in 1981, 13 _________. When more than half a million marathon runners of various shapes, sizes and abilities have completed the challenge of running the full 42 km of the course.

The London Marathon was the brainchild of Chris Brasher. The former Olympic champion brought the idea home to London   14_________ completing the New York Marathon in 1979. ‘Could London stage 15 _________ an event?’ wondered Brasher, answering his  16_________ questions by organizing the first London Marathon on March 29 1981, 17 _________ 6,255 runners completed the course,

The event has captured the public imagination and there are always 18_________ many people wanting to take part. Last year 19_________ amazing 98,500 people applied to run in it, although only 46,500 20 _________ be accepted.

For most of 21 _________ thousands who do take part, the day is about fun, achievement and raising money for charity – with varying degrees of pain! It is the immense community spirit that 22 _________ the race so special. Clubs, community groups and schools assist and entertain along the route as the runners – many of 23 _________ in fancy dress – run through the streets raising money for charitable causes. The streets of London are turned 24 _________ the longest street party in the world as crowds line the course to cheer the runners and enjoy the spectacle.