Top British Athletes to Battle it Out at the AJ Bell Great South Run
The stage is set for another thrilling race at the AJ Bell Great South Run with a high calibre British field assembled once again for the iconic 10-mile event.
Fans can expect fierce competition as a stellar line-up of reigning champions and past champions go head to head for the coveted title of 2024 Great South Run Champion, joining the honours list of past winners including Sir Mo Farah, Liz McColgan, Paula Radcliffe, Vivian Cheruiyot and Tirunesh Dibaba.
Lily Partridge targets historic hat-trick
In the women’s race, the spotlight is on Lily Partridge, a dominant force in British long-distance running, who will be attempting to make history by securing her third consecutive victory at the AJ Bell Great South Run. Partridge has previously represented Great Britain at the World Half Marathon Championships and boasts an impressive marathon personal best of 2:25:12. Partridge will be the woman to beat as she aims to yet again defend her title.
However, she will face stiff competition from fellow British athletes, including:
Verity Ockenden – A rising star in British athletics, Ockenden has made her mark in recent years with standout performances on the track, including a bronze medal in the 3,000 metres at the 2021 European Indoor Championships. Known for her versatility across distances, she’s a formidable contender who could disrupt Partridge’s hat-trick dreams.
Amelia Quirk – One of the youngest athletes in the field, Quirk has rapidly risen through the ranks of British middle- and long-distance running. With a background in cross-country and a recent strong showing in the British Athletics Cross Challenge, her endurance and speed make her a dark horse for a podium finish.
Amy-Eloise Neale – A former NCAA champion and European finalist, Neale is an athlete to watch. Having recently returned to competition after a successful collegiate career in the US, she has quickly adapted to road racing and has the potential to cause an upset in Portsmouth.
Ben Connor eyes top spot again
In the men’s race, Ben Connor, the 2022 Great South Run champion, returns with a point to prove after missing the event last year. Connor, a regular on the British national team for cross-country and road racing events, has a wealth of experience, including representing Team GB in the marathon at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Known for his tactical approach and endurance, Connor will be looking to reassert his dominance in Portsmouth.
He will, however, face a strong challenge from an elite field that includes:
Jack Rowe – The man in form, Rowe has been making headlines in recent months with major victories at the Vitality London 10,000 and The Big Half. With his recent winning streak, Rowe is considered a serious contender for the Great South Run title. His aggressive racing style and ability to maintain high pace over longer distances make him a strong favourite to challenge Connor for the crown.
Jacob Allen – Last year’s runner-up, Allen has steadily been building his reputation on the British road racing scene. His second-place finish here in 2023 proved he can handle the pressure and distance of the 10-mile race. With the experience of last year’s race under his belt, Allen will be aiming for the top spot this time around.
Omer Ahmed – Another podium finisher from last year, Ahmed has shown he can compete at the highest level in British long-distance events. A talented all-rounder, Ahmed’s strength over both cross-country and road races positions him as a challenger in this year’s race.
The running action extends beyond the athletes competing at the front of the pack, with the biggest field for almost a decade taking part in running events across the Great South Run weekend. Over 25,000 runners will join the action on the stunning seafront this year which also includes the AJ Bell Great South 5k, and the AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great South Run on the Saturday.
The 2024 Great South Run and Junior & Mini Great South Run are SOLD OUT. There a limited number of places remaining for the Great South 5k, but you’ll need to sign up fast to avoid missing out. Click here to enter.
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