NEW WORLD RECORD: Prof Alexander Betts, Oxford University’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor (for External Engagement, Sport, and Community) has set a new guinnessworldrecords at the 2026 London Marathon, completing the course in full academic dress. Running the 26.2-mile course through London in sub fusc, complete with mortar board, Prof Betts undertook the challenge while raising funds for helenanddouglashouse the Oxford-based children’s hospice. He was joined by students and colleagues from across the University, many of whom were also running in support of their own charities and causes. The previous record for ‘fastest marathon dressed as an academic’ had been set at three hours 31 minutes in Berlin, and Prof Betts broke it with a time of two hours 55 minutes. Prof Betts said: ‘This was about more than a record. It was about supporting an incredible charity and raising awareness of the work they do. ‘Running dressed as an academic offered a way to show that universities can have a po...