This year’s event includes a total of 27 separate mile events, known as waves, which are open for entry. Each wave offers something different at the inclusive event, where participants can run, jog, walk or be pushed around London’s famous St James’s Park on Saturday 21 September.
As well as the return of multiple family waves, perfect for all the family, and dedicated Childrens and Adults waves, there are a number of new waves in 2024.
These include the Children with Cancer UK wave (starting at 09:45) to raise awareness of cancer in children and young people, the Westminster Community wave (09:55) for those living in the event’s host borough and the Ruth Strauss Foundation wave (10:55) in aid of the charity set up in memory of the wife of former England test cricket captain Sir Andrew Strauss.
Other new waves include Blueprint for All (11:05), an organisation which works with young people, communities and organisations to support opportunities to all in society, the Bloomsbury Football wave (12:45) to champion opportunities for young Londoners and use football to inspire activity, and the London United wave (13:45) which works with London football clubs to support and better social outcomes in London.
Also in 2024 is the parkrun wave. Starting at 10:45, the wave in partnership with parkrun encourages those in the community to add to their 5km with a celebratory mile around St James’s Park.
The inclusive Wheelchair wave departs just after midday (12:05), and following a successful introduction in 2023, the NBA wave returns in 2024, with successive waves from 14:00.
The final wave of the day is the BMC Bannister Mile (14:20), which will begin with a commemoration of the historic first sub-four-minute mile, set 70 years ago by Roger Bannister, with two British Milers Club races to showcase the best of the UK’s middle-distance talent. More information is here.
Elaine Rayner, Event for the Vitality Westminster Mile, said: “What makes the Vitality Westminster Mile so special is that there is something for everyone. We are always looking at how we can be more inclusive and we have taken another step forward in 2024. The 2024 Vitality Westminster Mile will show the active community at its best, no matter how you choose to take part, and I am excited to welcome everyone.”
The Vitality Westminster Mile was launched by London Marathon Events in partnership with Westminster City Council in 2013 as a legacy event from the 2012 Olympic Games. It offers miles for all ages and abilities, including families, adults and veterans, juniors, elite athletes and wheelchair users. The event is completely free for under 11s, £7 for ages 11 to 17 and just £10 for adults. Westminster residents are eligible for a £5 discount.
The full list of waves and start times can be found here.