The Great North Run, the world's largest half marathon, saw a record 63,000 runners take part on Sunday, including Prime Minister Andy Burnham, as millions of pounds were raised for charity. The event marked the 45th anniversary of the iconic 13.1-mile route from Newcastle city centre to South Shields.
A Record-Breaking Anniversary
The weekend began with the Junior Great North Run on the Quayside and a series of pop-up events by official race sponsor Brooks across the city, building the atmosphere and pre-race nerves. By Sunday, tens of thousands had flocked to the centre for the main event, which started at an unusual 10.50am.
The late start compared to most races made a significant difference for runners, as it allowed the temperature to build, meaning participants tackled the challenging course during the warmest part of the day. After the elite women's and wheelchair races got underway, the Red Arrows performed a display overhead before the masses began their journey from the city to the coast.
Celebrities and Supporters Line the Route
Newcastle United and England star Dan Burn was on hand to give high fives as runners crossed the start line, with one runner even stopping to have his jersey signed by the defender. Participants enjoyed a downhill start over the first couple of miles before being hit by a wall of noise crossing the iconic Tyne Bridge.
With the mercury rising and the undulating course becoming more energy-zapping with every step, many runners sought out the on-course showers to bring their body temperatures down. The 200,000-plus supporters lining the streets offered words of encouragement, with witty cardboard signs bringing smiles to faces. Some runners took advantage of a 'beer stop' along the route, earning loud cheers from the Geordie crowd.
A Memorable Finish
After tackling the final climb and a sharp descent onto the sea front, runners found an injection of pace for the final mile as supporters roared on their loved ones with seagulls circling overhead. The event saw celebrities including Chris Kamara, Ben Shepherd, Joe Wicks, and England legendary footballer Peter Reid complete the biggest-ever event in the race's history.
The Great North Run lived up to its reputation as the biggest and best half marathon on the planet. The ballot for the 2027 AJ Bell Great North Run is open now.
