London Marathon Events appoints Spencer Barden as Head of Elite Athletes

London Marathon Events Ltd today announced the appointment of Spencer Barden as Head of Elite Athletes. Barden will take over the responsibility of assembling the elite fields from David Bedford who steps down in November.

A former international athlete who represented his country in track, road and cross country events, Barden has worked with British Athletics in a variety of roles and is currently the consultant Head of Athlete Recruitment where he recruits the elite fields for all televised meets including the London Anniversary Games, Birmingham Diamond League and the Indoor Grand Prix in Birmingham and Glasgow. He has also worked on the IAAF Indoor Tour series, the Great North Run and many other events. He has been a member of the London Marathon Events elite team since 2015.

In his new role at London Marathon Events, Barden will be responsible for assembling the elite fields for the Virgin Money London Marathon, The Vitality Big Half, the Vitality Westminster Mile and the Vitality London 10,000. He will continue his work with British Athletics recruiting the elite fields for televised events.

Hugh Brasher, Event Director, said: “We are delighted to welcome Spencer Barden to the London Marathon Events team. He has a great record in delivering world class fields for international events and we look forward to delivering more outstanding races with Spencer in the future.”

Barden said: “I’m delighted to be appointed to such a prestigious position and to join the talented team that delivers the Virgin Money London Marathon and its associated events. Year after year we see unforgettable races unfold with the world’s best athletes and it’s a privilege, as well as a challenge, to ensure that level of quality is retained together with London’s position as the world’s greatest marathon."

Barden takes up his appointment on 3 September and will be working two days per week with London Marathon Events Ltd.