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 4 weeks before the event start date.
After this date, we’re unable to offer deferrals as all event logistics will have been finalised.

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 WhyWeRun approved 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 as credit toward the following year’s event.
  • If the entry fee for the following year is higher, or you have remaining instalments due under your payment plan, you will be required to pay the difference to bring your entry in line with the new event price and schedule.

Example:

  • This year’s event fee: £750
  • You’ve paid: £750
  • Next year’s event fee: £850
  • Balance due next year: £100

If you are currently on a payment plan, you will have the option for a similar plan for the following year.
Please note that payment structures may differ and will be communicated once entries open for the following year’s event.

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: 11 October 2025