Stars of BBC’s Gladiators Join AJ Bell Junior and Mini Great North Run

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The AJ Bell Great North Run takes over the city of Newcastle this week with runners of all abilities and ages taking part in events, in what promises to be a thrilling long weekend of running action and celebrations

The excitement will be ramped up further as stars of BBC’s Gladiators, Apollo and Sabre, will be joining the fun at the UK’s biggest children’s running event – the AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run – this Saturday as official race starters, before meeting the young runners and their families on the Quayside.

The hit show’s return to the screens in January has created a whole new generation of Gladiator fans, many of whom will be taking part in the fun-packed, ‘finding your superpower’ themed event. Sabre (Sheli McCoy) and Apollo (Alex Gray) said:

‘We’re delighted to be involved in the UK’s biggest kids running event at the AJ Bell Junior and Mini Great North Run this Saturday. Fostering a love for sports and staying active is at the heart of our mission and something we deeply care about. It will be a true joy to see so many young athletes enjoying grassroots sports. We’ll be on hand to high-five the runners and cheer them across the finish line – we can’t wait to see you there!

Over 10,500 children are signed up to take part in the sold-out event, making the 2024 AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run the biggest staging of the event yet. Minis aged 3-8 take on a fun and energetic 1.5km, while Juniors aged 9-16 will run an impressive, before receiving a very special and well-earned medal for their efforts.

Organisers are also delighted to welcome the Mini 50 back. 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 fun of the Great North Run and take home a medal.

The 2024 AJ Bell Great North Run, the world’s biggest half marathon, will be taking place this Sunday 8 September and will be broadcast live on BBC One from 10am to 2pm in over 169 territories around the world, showcasing the best of the region nationally and internationally. For full timetable and event guide, click here.