Run for those who have served.

In 2024, the RAF Benevolent Fund supported 64,876 members of the RAF Family worldwide.

Take on the Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2027 and help ensure no serving personnel, veteran or family member faces adversity alone.

With charity places available in the full marathon, half marathon and Hairy Haggis Team Relay, this is a brilliant opportunity to take on one of Scotland’s biggest running events while making a real difference for the RAF Family. 

Apply for a charity place

Information on the event 

We’re excited to offer charity places in the Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2027, one of Scotland’s most popular running weekends.

Participants can choose from the Edinburgh Marathon, Edinburgh Half Marathon or the Hairy Haggis Team Relay, with each route offering an unforgettable race day atmosphere and the chance to support RAF veterans, serving personnel and their families.

Edinburgh Marathon

Take on 26.2 miles through one of the UK’s most iconic cities.

The Edinburgh Marathon is a fast and scenic route, taking runners past some of Edinburgh’s most recognisable landmarks before heading out along the East Lothian coastline towards the finish in Musselburgh. It is a fantastic challenge for experienced runners and those ready to take on their first marathon.

Edinburgh Half Marathon

A popular distance with big race day atmosphere.

The Edinburgh Half Marathon offers a memorable route with strong personal best potential, making it a great choice for first-time half marathon runners as well as those looking to push for a new PB.

Hairy Haggis Team Relay

Take on the marathon as part of a team.

The Hairy Haggis Team Relay is a fantastic way to experience the Edinburgh Marathon Festival with friends, family or colleagues. Each team member completes a section of the marathon route, working together to reach the finish line while raising vital funds for the RAF Family.

Why your miles matter

Behind every number is a person. In 2024:

• 64,876 members of the RAF Family were supported 
• £15.1 million was spent delivering welfare support 
• Nearly £2 million in unclaimed benefits uncovered for around 400 households 
• 91% of beneficiaries said we improved their quality of life

What your fundraising could achieve

Every pound raised helps us support serving RAF personnel, veterans and their families.

• £100 could help provide emergency household support 
• £250 could contribute towards mobility equipment that restores independence 
• £500 could help fund vital counselling sessions

Because one day of service deserves a lifetime of support.

In return for your support

• Dedicated regional fundraising support to help you reach your target 
• RAF Benevolent Fund running vest or t-shirt 
• Fundraising materials including collection tins, posters and more 
• A personalised post-event thank you

Charity place details

Edinburgh Marathon 
Registration fee: £50 
Minimum fundraising target: £500

Edinburgh Half Marathon 
Registration fee: £25 
Minimum fundraising target: £300

Hairy Haggis Team Relay 
Registration fee: £100 per team 
Minimum fundraising target: £1,000 per team

Charity places come at a cost to us, so we ask all participants to make every effort to reach their target. Our team will support you every step of the way.

With limited places available, we encourage early registration.

Already got a place?

You can still run with Team RAF Benevolent Fund.

Set up your fundraising page and raise what you can. There is no minimum target for own place runners, and we’ll support you all the way.

Create your fundraising page here.

Ready to get started?

Apply for a charity place here.