Runner Aims for Marathon Record in Cap and Gown

Chris Garratt will run the London Marathon dressed in a graduation gown, mortarboard cap, and full three-piece suit to support students facing financial hardship at his university.

The 50-year-old from the University of Worcester needs to finish in under three and a half hours to claim the world record for fastest marathon in graduation dress. He's allowed to wear trainers, which he calls "the only saving grace" of the challenge.

Garratt has worked at the university for nearly 30 years and knows firsthand how students are struggling. Student nurses particularly face tough choices between studying, hospital placements, and finding time for part-time work to afford basic necessities like food.

This marks his sixth London Marathon and third world record attempt. In 2023, he tried breaking the lumberjack marathon record in heavy boots but fell short. He bounced back later that year to claim the lumberjack half-marathon record at the Worcester City Runs.

The graduation outfit presents unique challenges beyond just the extra layers. If race day is warm, he'll overheat quickly under all that fabric. The flowing cape could catch wind and slow him down, and keeping the mortarboard on his head for 26 miles remains an open question.

The Ripple Effect

Garratt's £500 fundraising goal might seem modest, but it could change lives. The money goes directly to the university's student hardship and scholarship fund, providing emergency support when students need it most.

For a nursing student choosing between textbooks and groceries, that hardship fund could mean the difference between completing their degree or dropping out. One week of food assistance or help with transport costs can keep someone on track to become a healthcare professional.

"I just want to give something back to the students," Garratt explained simply.

His quirky world record attempt sends a powerful message: no gesture is too small or too silly when it helps someone pursue their education and build a better future.