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Sir Andy Murray

Sir Andy Murray announced as starter for Virgin Money London Marathon

Sir Andy Murray will bring a touch of superstar status to the start of the Virgin Money London Marathon. The former world's number one tennis player has personal connections with the world's greatest 26.2 mile foot race and he was delighted to be asked to send the competitors on their way at Blackheath on Sunday, 28 April.

Andy, who is currently rehabilitating after further surgery on his right hip, was present to support his wife, Kim Sears, when she ran 4:44:21 in the 2014 race. Clearly impressed with the atmosphere he admitted he has even considered running sometime in the future.

Andy said: “It’s an honour to be asked to start London Marathon. It’s such an amazing race that means so much to so many people. It raises millions each year for charity and helps inspire people to get active. I have nothing but admiration for everyone who runs - I may even run it myself one day.”

The 31-year-old won the US Open in 2012 and in 2014 he famously led GB to a first Davis Cup title since 1936. He was the world’s top ranked player from November 2016 to August 2017. Andy became the first British man in 77 years to win the Wimbledon singles title in 2013 and repeated his triumph in 2016. He won successive Olympic gold medals in 2012 and 2016, with the first of those coming at Wimbledon as part of the London Games.

Hugh Brasher, event director of Virgin Money London Marathon, said: “Sir Andy Murray is one of Britain’s greatest sporting superstars and it is so fitting that he will be the official starter for one of the country’s greatest sporting events and the world’s greatest marathon.

“Andy is renowned as one of the toughest and most competitive sportsmen on the planet and someone who does not recognise barriers in sport. We are delighted that he will be with us on Sunday 28 April to start the field of 42,000 runners undertaking the legendary 26.2 mile challenge – including both the very best marathon runners in the world and thousands of first-timers who have been inspired to get active and raise money for charity.”

The 39th Virgin Money London Marathon starts in Greenwich and finishes on The Mall. Full details are available at the official website here

Image courtesy Virgin Money London Marathon

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