Your Countdown to Greatness at the AJ Bell Great North Run

The AJ Bell Great North Run is back on Sunday 10 September for another spectacular celebration of running. 60,000 runners taking on the challenge for a range of reasons and causes – it’s ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

The world’s biggest half marathon follows the same iconic city-to-sea route each year, from Newcastle to South Shields, with all the action televised live on the BBC.

From crossing the Tyne Bridge to the first glimpse of the sea, there are iconic landmarks and inspiring scenery along the route, but it’s the start line butterflies, the rocking on-course music and the roaring crowd support lining the route that creates a truly unbeatable atmosphere.

The 42nd edition of the event is shaping up to be an extra special one, so here are just some of the reasons why you should be starting to get excited:

Farewell to a legend. This year’s event marks the final chapter in the incredible career of the legendary Sir Mo Farah. A four-time Olympic gold medallist, six-time World Champion, and (most importantly!) six-time Great North Champion! It’s an unforgettable opportunity for fans and fellow runners to celebrate his illustrious career and be part of his last race. One Mo Time!

The unscripted brilliance. The chants of Oggy Oggy Oggy, the unofficial water station, the beer stop that definitely isn’t us (!), the lady who holds the “UR ALL WINNERS, BE PROUD” sign, the guys who turn up (and run!) carrying the Tyne Bridge, the thousands of jelly babies and ice popsicles handed out on the course… we could go on, but there are countless contributions from runners and spectators throughout the day that make it truly unique. Only at the Great North Run!

Finisher  Rewards. Keep your eyes peeled over the next few weeks as we unveil this year’s (brilliant!) finisher medals and t-shirts. Whether it’s your first one, or part of a bigger collection, we’re sure you are going to love them as much as we do.

Rocking music & cheer zones.  13.1 miles of music, live bands and charity cheer squads line the route to keep legs pumping and smiles on faces. From the new Karaoke Kicks zone to the return of Elvis, there are surprises and old favourites all along the route, with lots of music & cheer zones to keep you motivated. And if all that doesn’t get your juices flowing, then the world’s best crowd support will lift you up and carry you all the way to the finish!

The roaring Red Arrows. Look to the skies – it’s the Red Arrows! One of the most iconic moments of the AJ Bell Great North Run is the sight of the world-famous Red Arrows as they soar over the Tyne Bridge and along the South Shields seafront.

The greatest final mile. The 13th mile is a memorable one along the coast. Not only will you be treated to views across the sparkling North Sea, but along the final mile, there’s going to be plenty of noise! We’ve got steel bands, charity cheer points, DJ trucks, and thousands of supporters cheering you the entire along. Get ready to experience the greatest final mile…

A post-race party!  It’s tradition to celebrate your success with a celebratory pint if you so wish. Our Après Run Zone is the place to kick back and enjoy your achievement with family, friends and fellow runners. With a range of tasty food options, bars and a gigantic beer tent, plus a live DJ turning up the feelgood, the fun certainly doesn’t stop when you cross the finish line.

Sweaty hugs and medal round necks. It’s long been a tradition that all finishers have medals hung around their necks – it’s a big old job for the volunteers, but it’s a personal touch that our runners love. And as for the sweaty hugs… well there are plenty of those, particularly in the charity village where charities are primed and ready to thank & reward their fundraising heroes for all their efforts.

The North East’s biggest weekend of sport. The North East comes alive on Great North Run weekend, but it’s not all about the big one on Sunday! The action starts on Friday with the popular 5k event, elite mile & elite 5k events on the Newcastle-Gateshead Quayside. The UK’s biggest kids running event takes over the baton on Saturday, with over 15,000 runners taking part in the Junior & Mini event – it’s a chance for the running stars of the future to take centre stage. Get involved and immerse yourself in the full Great North Run experience!

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