Marathon Hero – Shot Of The Month – April 2023
‘Shot of the Month’ is brought to you by Sport Industry Awards partner Shutterstock. In this ongoing image-led series, we turn the spotlight on those behind the lens. Telling the story of the standout photos that grace newspapers, magazines and digital screens around the world from the photographer’s point of view.
Dave Shopland, Shutterstock Sports Photographer
“On Sunday 23rd April, the 43rd London Marathon took place. It was a rainy day but that didn’t stop more than 48,000 runners and a massive crowd from turning out to watch. The race saw some huge successes, with the second fastest-ever time for a Marathon by Kelvin Kiptum, who finished the Marathon in just 2:01.27. After falling back at mile 15 with a hip injury, Sifan Hassan also took a surprise win for the women’s race with a time of 2:18.33.
Photographing the Marathon is always going to be a special day in a photographer’s sporting calendar. The atmosphere is electric from both the runners and supporters. Everyone is in the best mood no matter the weather. For me, it’s so important to get that perfect shot of the runners crossing the finishing line on The Mall and to capture the pure joy and realisation that they’ve done it. It is also one of those special events that becomes about more than photographing the sport but capturing all the special moments between runners and spectators alike. Running the London Marathon is such a big achievement and I love to capture that special moment on camera to share the emotions the runners feel.”
