Worcester Runner Chases World Record in Graduation Gown

When Chris Garratt crosses the finish line at the 2026 London Marathon, he'll be dressed for a very different kind of achievement ceremony.

The 50-year-old University of Worcester employee is attempting to set a new world record for the fastest marathon run in full graduation dress. That means running 26.2 miles in a three-piece suit, tie, graduation gown, cape, and mortarboard hat.

"The only saving grace is I can wear trainers," Garratt joked. But those sensible shoes are where practicality ends.

Garratt needs to finish in under three and a half hours to break the current record. His biggest concerns? Overheating in layers of formal wear and keeping his mortarboard from flying off his head for 26 miles.

This will be his third world record attempt. In 2023, he tried breaking the lumberjack marathon record in heavy boots but came up short. He later succeeded at setting the half marathon lumberjack record at the Worcester City Runs.

Why This Inspires

After nearly 30 years at the University of Worcester, Garratt knows firsthand how financial stress affects students. His £500 fundraising goal supports the student hardship and scholarship fund.

"Students are struggling too," he explained. "Student nurses in particular have to study and go into hospitals. To try and do a part-time job on top of that is extremely difficult."

The money could help students buy groceries for the week or cover emergency expenses. For some, that difference means staying in school versus dropping out just before becoming a nurse.

Garratt sees it simply: "I just want to give something back to the students."

Whether or not he breaks the record, one thing is certain: students will remember the guy who literally went the extra mile in a mortarboard for them.