Over 10,500 Children Take to the Streets of Newcastle
The streets of Newcastle were awash with happy faces this morning as the AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run returned to the Newcastle and Gateshead Quayside for the annual celebration of running.
A host of familiar character joined our very own Tyney to start the young runners on their way in the UKs biggest children’s running event including BBC’s Gladiators, Apollo and Sabre and running royalty Eilish McColgan.
Over 10,500 children took part in the sold-out event, making the 2024 AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run 2024 the biggest staging of the event yet. Minis aged 3-8 ran a fun and energetic 1.5km, whilst Juniors aged 9-16 completed an impressive 4K route before receiving a very special and well-earned medal for their efforts.
Organisers were especially delighted to welcome the return of the Mini 50. The 50m course for children (3-16 yrs) with specific needs, is a flat course that starts 50 metres from the finish line towards the Millenium Bridge. Supported by their families and carers, the Mini 50 ensures that every youngster can enjoy the fun of the Great North Run and take home a medal.
A new addition for 2024 was the Mascot Dash, a brilliant opportunity for local charities and sports teams to get involved in the competitive spirit whilst adding to the entertainment on offer to runners and spectators on the quayside.
Paul Foster, Chief Executive, The Great Run Company, said; “The AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run proves that you are never too young to get into running. Being active from a young age builds healthy habits that last a lifetime. It’s always a joy to see so many families join the fun each year along the Quayside – this year’s event was our biggest yet. We look forward to welcoming everyone back again next year.”
The AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run will be back next year on Saturday 6 Sept 2025 and entries are now open. But don’t delay – the ever popular Junior & Mini event sells out long in advance each year. Click here to enter.
Attention will soon turn to the main event tomorrow, the 43rd staging of the world’s biggest half marathon. The 2024 AJ Bell Great North Run, will be broadcast live on BBC One from 10am to 2pm.
In response to huge interest already for places into the 2025 Great North Run, to be held on Sunday 7 September 2025, a new September Ballot opened this week. Click here to find out more and enter.
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