Doncaster runner breaks London Marathon record dressed as cheerleader

A Doncaster runner has smashed a London Marathon record - while dressed as a cheerleader.

George Carley is now a Guinness World Record holder after becoming the fastest person to run a marathon dressed as a cheerleader, at the 2026 race.

He crossed the finish line in two hours and 46 minutes. The previous record was three hours and one minute.

George was born in Worksop, grew up in Retford, and studied for his A-Levels at New College in Doncaster.

George said: "I came up with quite a comprehensive list of feasible records that not only I thought I could beat, but also that I could still try and run quite quickly.

“A cheerleader just seemed like the obvious choice. It was quite similar to normal racing attire. I wore a skirt and my mum made me a DIY cropped top and pom-poms.

"The pom-poms made it difficult to drink water. That was a challenge I had not quite anticipated," he said.

George, 24, ran for the YMCA Doncaster charity and has raised over £1,800 so far.

He said: "When I was deciding on a charity, it was important to pick a charity close to where I am from. I went to sixth form in Doncaster, so it seemed to make sense.”

"This is my third marathon, but it all started when I watched my dad run the London Marathon ten years ago.

“That is ultimately what got me into the London Marathon.”

George’s dad, Jim Carley, was the project leader and author of Doncaster’s successful bid to achieve city status in 2022.

When asked if he would be tempted to try and break his record in the future, George told us: "I would be tempted but maybe not that record again.

“I would definitely be tempted to try out some of the other more flamboyant records.

“You see people in all kinds of crazy outfits, and I think that could be even more challenging.

“On my original list was running as a wrestler or a tennis player. So, there are some that I would consider, but for now I want to revel in my current record before I consider doing any others" he said.

People can donate to George’s fundraising page here: https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/george-carley