Inspired by Greatness: Kate Ludlam
The AJ Bell Great North Run has always been about ordinary people doing extraordinary things. It started back in 1981, when 12,264 pioneers forged the path from Newcastle to South Shields.
This year the class of 2024 will follow in the footsteps of 1.3 million before them, running the same infamous 13.1 mile route. Each runner inspired by someone, some cause, some moment. Each runner on their own road to greatness.
This year, we are celebrating being Inspired by Greatness as each runner brings their unique story and motivation, showcasing that greatness lies within us all. Explore the extraordinary experiences of the thousands of runners who join us at the start lines each year.
NHS Nurse Kate Ludlam Returns to GNR 25 Years After First Run as a Student
“The first time I did the Great North Run was about 25 years ago. I was a student at Sunderland Uni and not a runner. It was my first ever running event and I raised money for an Alzheimer’s charity as my Grandad had sadly been diagnosed with the disease.
“Now I’m a nurse with nearly 22 years of NHS service and a regular runner. Last year I relied heavily on our NHS when I badly broke my elbow. I needed surgery and months of intensive rehab to get back to my usual daily activities and be able to do my job again. The care and treatment from my local hospital was amazing!
“I am really excited to have the opportunity to run the Great North Run and give something back by raising some much-needed pennies for NHS Charities Together.”
What inspires you?
Kate said “I’m inspired not just by great athletes, but by everyday people who overcome all the odds, battling serious illness or injury to take part in events like the Great North Run. These people are the true heroes and embody the spirit of this event.”
“This September; I am really excited to have the opportunity to run the Great North Run and give something back by raising some much-needed pennies for NHS Charities Together. I also have a family connection to the North East with my Nan being born in South Shields.”
43 years on, the Great North Run has generated hundreds of millions of pounds in charity fundraising, witnessed some of the greatest road running performances of all time and this year was awarded the World Athletics Heritage Plaque for its contribution to the worldwide history and development of mass participation road running.
The award is so much more than the Great North Run; it’s about every runner, volunteer, charity, supporter, across every single year. It’s about the unwavering support of the people of the North East who get behind this event like no other and inspire the next generation.
The Great North Run will be broadcast live on BBC One on Sunday, 8 September from 10am to 2pm and around the world, showcasing the best of the region nationally and internationally.
For Great North Run 2025 ballot updates, sign up here. We will also provide you with useful running information and guidance, special offers, training advice, top tips, and exclusive Great Run Series event updates.
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