LLB Law alum sets Guiness World Record at 2025 London Marathon

Rui completed the marathon on Sunday 27 April in an impressive 2 hours 39 minutes while wearing a three-piece suit and tie. Rui has already broken national records in Singapore several times in his career, but this was his first attempt at a world record.

We asked Rui – who was a member of the UCL Running, Athletics and Cross Country Club during his time at UCL Laws – about his record-breaking experience, and what running the London Marathon meant to him. 

What inspired you to run the London Marathon in a suit?

I wanted to take on the suit world record challenge because I’m a UCL Laws grad and currently a London Business School MBA student, so it was very fitting for my profile! It was a really hot day so I suffered royally, and the last 30 minutes was the hardest slog I’ve ever done. More painful than any law school exam! But I think my years of training and racing marathons in the Singapore heat and humidity prepared me well for the challenge. 

What was the atmosphere like?

The London Marathon’s atmosphere is second-to-none. The London crowds went crazy seeing me racing in fancy dress so they really carried me through, and I have every one of the spectators and organisers to thank. It’s pretty cool to be the first man in a suit under 2hr 40min (2:39:57) in history and I only did it by three seconds so every bit of support mattered! 

How does it feel to be a world record holder?

I definitely had a very special day breaking the world record in London because it’s become a second home to me since moving here for UCL. Performing in front of my classmates, friends and training partners was a special experience, so I would have had fun even without getting the record – but it was the icing on the cake to do so. 

I would love to give a special mention to my UCL Laws classmate, Vassiliki, who made it to the finish line to support and see me break the world record. We met during our time at UCL (I believe it was in our jurisprudence class) and have remained good friends since. 

So thank you UCL for bringing me to London and providing me with a home away from home!