Amid the post-Brighton glow, I just got this less positive email from VLM:
-----Original Message-----
From: no-reply-ballot@virginlondonmarathon.com
Sent: 19 April 2010 10:16
Subject: 2011 Virgin London Marathon - Priority Online Ballot Entry Scheme
In the past, the London Marathon has been able to offer a guaranteed race entry to runners after 5 consecutive unsuccessful ballot applications.
Unfortunately, due to the incredible growth in numbers of applicants, we have decided that we cannot continue to operate this system in future.
However, we acknowledge that it would be unfair to remove this well established system without notice so instead, we have decided on a phased withdrawal of the system over the next few marathons by introducing a Priority Online Ballot Entry Scheme for the benefit of all previous applicants with at least 2 rejected ballot entry applications in 2009 and 2010.
Our records show that you have made 4 consecutive unsuccessful applications and as a result we are offering you the opportunity to maintain your record of consecutive applications in the ballot by following the link from this special invitation email to the Priority Online Ballot Entry System and completing your registration in advance of the main public ballot, which opens on Tuesday 4th May.
The username and password provided below are exclusively for your use and cannot be used by anyone else.
You will retain your place in the Priority Online Ballot Entry Scheme until you either obtain a place in the race through the ballot entry process in the normal way, or you qualify under the 'five times consecutively rejected' rule highlighted above, whichever comes first.
In addition, in order to remain in the Priority Online Ballot Entry Scheme you must keep us updated with any change in your email address so that we can be sure that we can contact you in subsequent years until the scheme finally closes.
Lastly, please note that you must complete your priority application by 5pm on Friday, 30th April 2010 otherwise you will lose your place in the Priority Online Ballot Entry Scheme. You will still be able to apply through the main public ballot for the 2011 race which opens on Tuesday 4th May but you lose your rights outlined above.
Not a great surprise, I suppose. Fortunately I have been diligently putting in my entries every year, and am due for a guaranteed entry in 2012, the Olympic year. But any thoughts of getting in automatically every five years will now be a thing of the past.
This article today suggests that London's monopoly on mass-participation marathons may be challenged.
Phase 1 of the Flora London Marathon 2009 online entry ballot has now closed
