Event Deferral Policy
We understand that despite the best preparation and intentions, life can sometimes get in the way. While entries to Why We Run events are non-transferable and non-refundable, we do offer a compassionate deferral policy for those facing injury or exceptional circumstances.
This page outlines our deferral process for injury, illness, and emergencies. If your reason for deferral relates to pregnancy, IVF, or adoption, please see our Pregnancy, IVF & Adoption Deferral Policy.
Eligibility
You may request a deferral if you are unable to participate due to:
- Injury or illness that makes it unsafe to take part
- A personal or family emergency
- Other exceptional circumstances, assessed on a case-by-case basis
We do not offer deferrals for:
- Work or travel conflicts
- Incomplete training
- Last-minute change of plans
- Injuries sustained during the event itself
- Any other reason not deemed exceptional by the organisers
Deadline for Requests
Deferral requests must be received no later than 7 days before the event start date.
After this point, we are unable to offer deferrals under any circumstances.
Not Sure Whether to Defer?
If you’re unsure whether to take part due to injury or a physical issue, Why We Run will cover the cost of a consultation with our event physiotherapist. This service is offered to confirmed participants only and must be arranged in advance.
What You’ll Need
To support your deferral request, please provide one of the following:
- A letter from a registered healthcare professional advising you not to take part
or - An assessment report from our Why We Run physiotherapist recommending you defer
What Happens to Your Entry Fee
If your deferral is approved:
- Any amount you have already paid will be carried forward to the following edition of the event.
- If you have not yet completed payment, you will be required to pay your remaining balance and any difference in entry price for the following year.
Example:
- This year’s event fee: £500
- You’ve paid: £250 (e.g. two instalments)
- Next year’s event fee: £600
- Balance due next year: £350
If you are currently on one of our payment plans, we will offer you payment plan options again the following year. These may follow a different structure and will be confirmed after the next year's ballot closes.
One-Year Validity
Approved deferrals are valid for one year only. This means:
- Your place will be held for the next edition of the event.
- If you are unable to participate the following year, your entry will be forfeited.
- No refund will be issued for any fees already paid if your deferral is not used.
- Additional deferrals or extensions are not available, except under our Pregnancy, IVF & Adoption Policy.
How to Request a Deferral
To request a deferral, just email the Event Director, with your reason for deferral and any supporting documentation, or confirmation of an upcoming consultation with our physiotherapist.
If you're not sure whether a deferral is the right option, feel free to reach out and have a conversation. We're always happy to talk it through with you.
We aim to reply to all deferral requests within 7 days.
Last updated: 5 July 2025