Power of Running: Stephen Hore
This year’s AJ Bell Great South Run weekend is set to be the biggest for a decade with over 25,000 runners taking part over Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October. This year we’re celebrating the inspiring runners who are on their own route to victory as part of our Great South Run ‘Power of Running’ series.
Stephen Hore, 41, from Southbourne/Emsworth, is gearing up to run the Great South Run for the first time this year, representing United Minds, a local Portsmouth men’s mental health organisation.
“I’ve been part of the charity for about a year now, and seeing the support United Minds provides for men really inspired me to raise funds on their behalf,”
Stephen shares. United Minds offers a variety of opportunities for men to open up about their struggles, whether through talk nights, football games, golf, quiz nights, or simply going for a walk and talk. The money raised by events like the Great South Run helps United Minds continue offering these valuable services.
For Stephen, running has become much more than just a physical activity; it’s been transformative. “Running helps me think, clears my head from distractions, and if I’m running with a friend or someone new, it gives us a chance to talk. Recently, running has made me feel amazing. The praise I’ve received from everyone who knows my journey—from being a depressed alcoholic to where I am now—has been incredible. This is just part of my journey.”
The power of running, according to Stephen, is multifaceted. “When we run as a group, there’s a sense of community. It lifts the mood, especially if someone’s having a bad day—we all run together and support one another. At the same time, running is a personal barrier I want to push through. Achieving new distances and levels feels incredible, and that can only be a good thing.”
The Great South Run, and Junior & Mini Great South Run, are now SOLD OUT. There’s still time to sign up for Saturday’s Great South 5k, but enter quickly here, as places are selling fast.
If you missed out on the Great South Run this year, sign up to the 2025 Reminder Service here and we’ll let you know when next year’s entries open.
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