The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run is back this weekend
Building on Glasgow’s recognition as the European Capital of Sport in 2023, the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run is back, with over 20,000 runners signed up to take part.
This incredible weekend of running includes a 10k & half marathon on Sunday 1 October and the AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Scottish Run on Saturday 30 September. The event raises millions of pounds for charities and good causes across Scotland.
From the iconic start line in the heart of the city at George Square, runners will be able to soak up the atmosphere at every kilometre, with music from Heart Radio hosts Des Clarke & Jennifer Reoch at the start and last mile, plus legendary Glaswegian support all the way along the course and at the finish in Glasgow Green.
Paul Foster, Chief Executive at the Great Run Company said, “It’s fantastic to be back in Glasgow for the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run. With over 20,000 runners taking part, the event is an incredible celebration of sport in Scotland, with runners of all ages and abilities taking part across two days, from our toddler dash all the way up to the half marathon distance.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming runners to the city and we know they will be treated to a great Glasgow welcome and enthusiastic support all along the course.”
UK and European 10k record-holder superstar Athlete Eilish McColgan has also joined forces with the AJ Bell Great Run Series as Official Ambassador helping runners to perform at their best on the day with her dedicated Great Run training plans. Eilish’s advice to everyone participating this weekend is to get organised the night before, “Try mentally to relax as much as you can. Look out your kit including your racing shoes and number so that race day is a little less stressful. For now, the hard work is done & training is over. A huge good luck to everyone running, but most of all just soak up the atmosphere and enjoy it.”
Bailie Annette Christie, Chair of Glasgow Life, said: “The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run is Scotland’s flagship festival of running. Events across the weekend offer everyone the opportunity to get involved to race, run or jog, while raising incredible sums for charity, with thousands more cheering on those who are challenging themselves in some way. The joy of watching some of the sport’s top athletes running alongside many who are entering for the first time is awe-inspiring.
“We are the first city to hold the title of European Capital of Sport twice, having first been awarded it in 2003. This honour recognises Glasgow’s status as a city globally renowned for sport and the host of world-class events like the Great Scottish Run, which has taken place in the city for more than 40 years, and has been key in building that reputation. Good luck to all those who are pulling on their trainers this weekend.”
Charlie Musson, Brand and PR Director at AJ Bell said, “Glasgow has been named the European Capital of Sport for 2023 and it’s fantastic the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run will be a part of that. The focus for October is mental health and we’re delighted to be supporting Mind this year as the official charity partner of the Great Run Series.”
To learn more about the Great Scottish Run, visit the event page here.