On Sunday 29th September 2024, a team of 25 Against Breast Cancer runners lined up at the Berlin Marathon start line, ready to take on the fastest and flattest course of the Abbot World Marathon Majors.
It was a dry, mild day and the race saw 50,000 participants from over 150 different countries take on the 26.2-mile course. The first wave of runners set off at 9.15 am starting at the Brandenburg Gate and passing through 10 of the city’s neighborhoods. First passing the Reichstag building, then the victory column, then onto the Potsdamer Platz, with the marathon concluding where it began at the Brandenburg Gate.
“Berlin for me was amazing. I totally enjoyed the experience and atmosphere. I loved every minute of it. I forgot about the running part and took in all the sights. To meet and talk of people’s personal experiences from all over the world was a rare opportunity. To run for ABC was just emotional and every penny was worth it. Thank you, it was the best opportunity I’ve ever been given.” – Anita Aggarwal
Spectators lined the streets in their hundreds with signs written in German, English, Spanish and Japanese, handing out snacks and supporting runners to that all-important finish line.
“The Berlin Marathon was one of the most emotional, rewarding but also challenging things I’ve ever done in my life. I’m so proud to have run the marathon not just in loving memory of my mother who I lost to cancer but also in support of Against Breast Cancer in improving treatments for Breast Cancer Patients. The physical challenge I experienced towards the end of the run definitely pushed my limits to the next level so I’m grateful for the experience to overcome the challenge physically but also growing as a person crossing the finish line at 3 hours and 56min.” – Benjamin Schnau
Collectively the ABC Berlin Marathon 2024 team of runners has raised over £43,000 towards our vital research into secondary spread breast cancer.
“Running for ABC was truly an honour. Despite battling a fever and chest infection on race day, the thought of supporting such a worthy cause gave me the strength to push through. One of the highlights was connecting with a fellow ABC runner during the race who tapped my back in support whilst beaming a huge smile my way—as we were running she spoke to me of her battle with breast cancer, I pray for her journey onward to be one of healing. Thank you, ABC, for being such an incredible source of inspiration!” – Rohit Valrani
“Running the Berlin Marathon was an unbelievable experience and one which I won’t forget, I was able to raise vital funds for an amazing charity whilst also participating in my first Abbott Series Marathon, I would encourage anyone to participate if you get the chance”. – Peter Wilson
Interested in running an Abbott World Marathon Major yourself? Take a look at our other events and marathons including Berlin Marathon 2025.