North West Archives - Great Run https://www.greatrun.org/location/north-west/ Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:42:31 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://cdn.greatrun.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/favicon-150x150.png North West Archives - Great Run https://www.greatrun.org/location/north-west/ 32 32 The Great Run Company Proud to Support Smile Through Sport https://www.greatrun.org/news/the-great-run-company-proud-to-support-smile-through-sport/ Tue, 11 Nov 2025 15:51:19 +0000 https://www.greatrun.org/news// The Great Run Company is proud to support North East disability sport charity, Smile Through Sport, for two of the charity’s inclusive sport events this week. On Thursday 13 November 2025, Smile Through Sport is launching a brand-new school Boccia event in partnership with the Panathlon Foundation. Over 300 children with disabilities or Special Educational […]

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The Great Run Company is proud to support North East disability sport charity, Smile Through Sport, for two of the charity’s inclusive sport events this week.

On Thursday 13 November 2025, Smile Through Sport is launching a brand-new school Boccia event in partnership with the Panathlon Foundation. Over 300 children with disabilities or Special Educational Needs. will take part across two venues – Walker Activity Dome, and Gateshead Leisure Centre – giving young people the opportunity to experience inclusive sport in action.

Paul Foster, Chief Executive at The Great Run Company, said: “We are proud to support a fantastic local organisation, Smile Through Sport, whose work not only supports communities in the North East, but provides people of all ages with disabilities the chance to be active through sport.

“We’ve chosen Smile Through Sport as our official company charity for 2025 and 2026, and this week we’re helping at their School Boccia Events with 40 employees taking part in a volunteering give back day, which means Smile Through Sport can host their school event in two locations – Walker and Gateshead.

“We also have a team of volunteers from both The Great Run Company, and FilmNova, our TV production arm, volunteering at Smile Through Sport’s largest Boccia Open this Sunday at Northumbria University.”

On Sunday 16 November 2025, Smile Through Sport will host its 12th Boccia Open at Sport Central, Northumbria University, welcoming 120 players and 60 volunteers from across the UK, making it the UK’s largest Boccia Open.

Smiling competitors taking part in a Smile Through Sport Boccia event.

Competitors will travel from the North East, Yorkshire, Liverpool, Scotland and Surrey to take part in 19 separate competitions, featuring players with both physical and learning disabilities. Participants range from top-level England players to first-time competitors discovering Boccia for the very first time.

Founder and Paralympian Stephen Miller MBE said:

“It’s incredible to see how the Smile Boccia Open has continued to grow every year. We’re thrilled to welcome even more players and volunteers this year, and to see the community that has built around this event. Bringing people together through sport is what Smile is all about.”

Rachel Miller, Managing Director of Smile Through Sport, said:

“We are delighted to have the support of The Great Run Company and their employees who are joining us to volunteer this week. Their support is invaluable to us and has provided even more access to our events, with two locations for our school event made possible by their support.”

Boccia is a precision ball sport, originally designed for athletes with severe physical disabilities and now played at Paralympic level. It continues to grow in popularity across all abilities – and Smile Through Sport remains at the heart of that progress.

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Running Greatness at it’s Best at Biggest Ever Great South Run https://www.greatrun.org/news/running-greatness-at-its-best-at-biggest-ever-great-south-run/ Sun, 19 Oct 2025 16:42:47 +0000 https://www.greatrun.org/news// Following the cancellation of the 2024 edition due to a storm, the AJ Bell Great South Run 2025 returned bigger and better than ever, with over 25,000 runners of all ages take part in an amazing weekend of running, cheered on by the unbeatable 75,000 Pompey supporters who lined the course despite the weather. £1Million […]

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Following the cancellation of the 2024 edition due to a storm, the AJ Bell Great South Run 2025 returned bigger and better than ever, with over 25,000 runners of all ages take part in an amazing weekend of running, cheered on by the unbeatable 75,000 Pompey supporters who lined the course despite the weather.

£1Million raised as legacy to Claire Lomas MBE

Since its inaugural event in 1990, the Great South Run has built an incredible legacy with countless incredible moments and achievements, added to those will be today’s moving tribute to the inspiring Claire Lomas MBE.

Claire raised over £952k for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation before her death. Claire’s husband Dan alongside her best friend Stuart ‘Pid’ Hall started their Three Spokes Challenge to take that fundraising to £1 million.

It was on the start line of the Great South Run 2025 that Pid announced to Dan that they had smashed that magical £1 million as a fantastic legacy to a lady who touched so many hearts.

The Great South Run was the final leg of their challenge which has seen the pair complete the Great Manchester Run, Great North Run, and now the Great South Run in wheelchairs raising funds and awareness for Claire’s legacy.

Pid and Dan were joined by Claire’s parents and other family and friends, with the starters horn sounded by Claire and Dan’s daughters Maisie and Chloe on what was a truly emotional day for everyone involved.

President of the Great Run Company Sir Brendan Foster said, “Claire was part of so many special memories at our Great Run events and we know how much she especially loved the Great South Run. She first completed the course in 2017 in her robotic suit walking through the night, returning twice again to take on the course in her wheelchair. We’re honoured her family chose The Great South Run as their final leg and for us to be part of their fantastic achievement. Claire I’m sure would be very proud.”

Outstanding elite performances
The AJ Bell Great South Run saw close fought battles for first place in both the elite men’s and women’s races.

It was third time lucky for Verity Ockenden (Swansea Harriers AC) who finished was ahead of the pack to take the crown 00:56:37, with Kate Estlea-morris (Aldershot Farnham & District A. C.) in second in 00:56:46 and Beth Kidger (Brighton Phoenix) finishing third in 00:56:48

Marc Scott (Richmond & Zetland Harriers) was the winner of the Elite Men’s race in 00:47:21, adding to his 2019 win at the Great South Run. Baldvin Magnusson from Iceland claimed second place in a time of 00:47:39, with Jake Smith (Pontypridd Roadents RC) in third place in 00:47:53.

Sir Brendan Foster said, “The Great South Run has a rich history of incredible performances by British elite athletes and today was no exception. Marc and Verity join a veritable roll call of British previous winners including Liz and Eilish McColgan, Chris Paula Radcliffe and Sir Mo Farah. It was great to be back after last year’s cancellation due to the storm, this is an event firmly cemented in the calendar of runners of all abilities and we can’t wait to do it all in 2026.”

Sporting icon race starters
Sporting legends new and old came together on the starters platform. Running royalty Dame Kelly Holmes started the elite female athlete race to kick off the morning before joining the masses to take on the 10 mile route herself.

Hot off the success of the Red Roses in the Women’s Rugby World Cup, Chichester born Jess Breach was joined by Portsmouth FC Legend Alan Knight, to ring the bell to start the elite male athlete race before sending over 23,000 runners on their way to running greatness.

35 years of the Great South Run
With 2025 being 35 years of the Great South Run this milestone was celebrated on the startline as race organisers The Great Run Company said thank you to the Great South Run stalwarts who have been involved in the event since the very first race. These included Dave Olsen who is one of 3 runners this year to have completed every single Great South Run since the very first staging of the event in 1990 and Pam Rogers – who has been involved from the start either as a runner for the first 14 years, or as official since.

Enter Great South Run 2026 NOW!
The Great South Run 2026 RETURNS on Sunday 18 October. Entries are now open – enter now to secure Super Earlybird prices (first 1000 places only). Enter here.

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Verity Ockenden and Marc Scott Win the UKA 10 Mile Championships https://www.greatrun.org/news/verity-ockenden-and-marc-scott-win-the-uka-10-mile-championships/ Sun, 19 Oct 2025 16:33:25 +0000 https://www.greatrun.org/news// The AJ Bell Great South Run 2025 hosted the UK Athletics 10-Mile Championships where the very best British runners competed for victory in the elite men’s and women’s races. Marc Scott of Richmond & Zetland Harriers was the winner of the Elite Men’s race in 00:47:21. Jake Smith of Pontypridd Roadents RC claimed second place […]

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The AJ Bell Great South Run 2025 hosted the UK Athletics 10-Mile Championships where the very best British runners competed for victory in the elite men’s and women’s races.

Marc Scott of Richmond & Zetland Harriers was the winner of the Elite Men’s race in 00:47:21. Jake Smith of Pontypridd Roadents RC claimed second place in a time of 00:47:53 with Charlie Brisley of Newham & Essex Beagles AC in third place in AC 48:47.

The elite women’s race saw Verity Ockenden of Swansea Harriers AC finish ahead of the pack to take the crown in 00:56:37, with Kate Estlea-Morris of Aldershot Farnham & District A. C. in second in 00:56:46 and Beth Kidger of Brighton Phoenix finishing third 00:56:48.

Paul Foster, Chief Executive, The Great Run Company, said: “Congratulations to Marc and Verity on their performances today. It was a great line up of athletic talent which made for a thrilling race. The Great South Run has built an incredible legacy with countless incredible moments and achievements, and British and European records broken along the route. Our winners join a veritable roll call of British previous winners. It was great to be back after last year’s cancellation due to the storm, and today did not disappoint. It was a real showcase of the best of British athletic talent.”

The Great South Run which celebrated 35 years of running along the south coast this year has a rich history of memorable performances by British elite athletes, including Liz McColgan who won in 1995 and 1997, and Eilish McColgan whose third win of Great South Run in 2021 set her 10-mile PB of 50:43, marking the women’s course record, and European best for 10-miles. Other previous winners include Paula Radcliffe, Sir Mo Farah and three time winner Chris Thompson.

Following the cancellation of the 2024 edition due to a storm, the AJ Bell Great South Run 2025 returned bigger and better than ever, with over 25,000 runners of all ages take part in an amazing weekend of running, cheered on by the unbeatable 75,000 Pompey supporters who lined the course despite the weather. An estimated £4million was raised for charity.

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Sea of Runners Join the Fun at Super Saturday https://www.greatrun.org/news/sea-of-runners-join-the-fun-at-super-saturday/ Sat, 18 Oct 2025 18:03:31 +0000 https://www.greatrun.org/news// Southsea seafront was awash with happy faces this morning as the AJ Bell Great South Run 5K and AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great South Run returned to Portsmouth for the annual celebration of running. 2025 sees 35 years of the Great South Run, with countless incredible moments and achievements since its inaugural event in […]

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Southsea seafront was awash with happy faces this morning as the AJ Bell Great South Run 5K and AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great South Run returned to Portsmouth for the annual celebration of running.

2025 sees 35 years of the Great South Run, with countless incredible moments and achievements since its inaugural event in 1990. Over 1000 local runners lined up to run the brisk, flat course around the esplanade in the Great South Run 5K. Oakley Knipe (City of Portsmouth AC) was the fastest male runner, taking the tape in 00:15:31, with Imogen Edwards (Basingstoke & Mid Hants AC) the fastest female in a time of 00:17:08.


5km Top 3 Females left to right: Florence East (2nd) Imogen Edwards (1st) Rhiannon Navesey (3rd)


5km Top 3 Males left to right: Archie Pearson (2nd) Oakley Knipe (1st) Malek Roostaei (3rd)

It was the turn of younger runners to take centre stage with over 1500 children finding their super powers as host of familiar faces sent young runners on their way including BBC’s Gladiators, Viper and Electro, and British Elite runners Verity Ockenden, Jake Smith and Chris Thompson, and Lord Mayor, Councillor Gerald Vernnon-Jackson.

Young running talent from across the South shone through with Zachary Armitage putting in outstanding performance with the fastest Male Junior time of 00:08:27, and Freya Klepacz from City of Portsmouth AC recording 00:08:26 as the fastest Female junior runner.

The AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great South Run also sees the annual presentation of the Christine Weeks Cup which this year was awarded to Penny Sheppard and fastest junior boys, Terry Tatt and Zed Heath. Christine was a Great South Run stalwart from the very beginning in 1990 and instrumental to bringing the run to region. A huge supporter of young runners, Christine has been fondly remembered since her death with this cup awarded to the fastest junior boy and girl from a PO1 to PO6 postcode.

Paul Foster, Chief Executive, The Great Run Company, said; “The AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great South Run shows that running can be enjoyed from a young age. The performances of the young athletes really highlighted that the South is home to some of the rising stars in athletics and future winners of the Great South Run. It will be exciting to following their journeys in years to come.”

The AJ Bell Great South 5K and Great South Junior & Mini Run will be back next year on Saturday 17 October 2025 and entries are now open. Super earlybird prices available for a short time only. Find out more here.

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Launch of AJ Bell Great South Run Weekend a Towering Success https://www.greatrun.org/news/launch-of-aj-bell-great-south-run-weekend-a-towering-success/ Fri, 17 Oct 2025 15:29:04 +0000 https://www.greatrun.org/news// The weekend of running celebrations which is the AJ Bell Great South Run kicked off this morning at the iconic Square Tower in old Portsmouth. Elite athletes Verity Ockenden and Jake Smith, Great South Run Event Director Lorna Hartley, three time Great South Run champion Chris Thompson and a host of inspirational runners from across […]

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The weekend of running celebrations which is the AJ Bell Great South Run kicked off this morning at the iconic Square Tower in old Portsmouth.

Elite athletes Verity Ockenden and Jake Smith, Great South Run Event Director Lorna Hartley, three time Great South Run champion Chris Thompson and a host of inspirational runners from across the South came together to celebrate 35 years of the Great South Run.

Since its inaugural event in 1990, the Great South Run has built an incredible legacy. With countless incredible moments and achievements across 35 years of running greatest along the South Coast, tens of millions of pounds raised for charity, and British and European records broken along the route, the event has cemented its position as a firm favourite in the running calendar.

The main event on Sunday will feature the UK Athletics 10-Mile Championships, which will see the best of British runners take to the course in the elite men’s and elite women’s races with both Jake Smith and Verity Ockenden (below) anticipated to take the winners tape. Success will see them join an evitable role call of top British athletes winners which included Liz McColgan, Paula Radcliffe, Sir Mo Farah, Eilish McColgan.

Two people who have been involved in the Great South Run throughout its 35 year history are Dave Olsen and Pam Rogers. Dave, one of the few runners to have completed every single Great South Run since its first staging in 1990, proudly showed off his collection of medals. Pam’s long standing association with the event started as a club runner at the first 15 Great South Runs before she became one of the event officials.

Following the elite athletes will be over 23,000 runners from across the South of England and beyond. The event is a huge celebration of running that brings communities together to do something incredible together and raise an estimated £4 million for charities.

Portsmouth social worker John Hillage who is running bare foot on Sunday to raise awareness of the long arduous path foster carers locally take to compassion and strength everyday.

The Square Tower, located close to the Great South Run course, was built in 1494 and is among the earliest stone fortifications built in Portsmouth. Together with the Round Tower, the adjacent sea-wall and the Saluting Platform, the Tower is the only part of the Tudor works to survive and retains many of its historic features.

The Great South Run takes runners past some of Portsmouth’s most iconic landmarks as well as picturesque views of the Isle of Wight. Incredible local support along the route will carry them to the finish line close to Southsea Castle and their well-earned medal and lively post-race celebrations.

If you missed out this year, sign up for the 2026 reminder here and be the first to know when Great South Run 2026 entries open.

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35 Years of Greatness at Great South Run: Southsea friends support residents with hearing loss https://www.greatrun.org/news/35-years-of-greatness-at-great-south-run-southsea-friends-support-residents-with-hearing-loss/ Fri, 17 Oct 2025 07:35:26 +0000 https://www.greatrun.org/news// Three friends from Southsea are lacing up their running shoes on Sunday to take on 10 miles of iconic seafront at the AJ Bell Great South Run and shine a spotlight on a cause that’s close to their hearts. Clare Parker, Kim Jones and Emma Gueterbock may all be “on the wrong side of 50,” […]

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Three friends from Southsea are lacing up their running shoes on Sunday to take on 10 miles of iconic seafront at the AJ Bell Great South Run and shine a spotlight on a cause that’s close to their hearts.

Clare Parker, Kim Jones and Emma Gueterbock may all be “on the wrong side of 50,” as Emma puts it, but what they might lack in recent mileage, they more than make up for in passion, purpose, and determination.

None of them are new to running, the trio having all run the Great South Run before and Kim has also conquered several Great North Runs and London Marathons since her first GNR in 1983 while at university. However, this year’s challenge is about getting back to fitness for Emma and Clare whilst also raising crucial funds to support people with hearing loss with something many people take for granted: the ability to communicate.

“Clare and I teach free lipreading classes in Portsmouth and the surrounding area,” Emma explains. “These groups are a lifeline for people with hearing loss, combating social isolation and rebuilding people’s confidence through new coping strategies and a strong and supportive community. Unfortunately lipreading lessons are no longer funded by the government. Lipreading is now classified as a language, not the fully funded essential life skill it once was.”

Claire leading a class, Kim and Emma.

That reclassification has left teachers like Emma and Clare to fundraise every year to keep their groups going and that’s where the Great South Run comes in.

“We want to keep our groups running July 2026 and beyond,” says Emma. “But we also want to get people talking. Hearing loss affects millions of people in the UK, and yet most of us don’t know the “Dos and Don’ts” when speaking to someone who’s hard of hearing. Our hope is that by running, we’ll raise both funds and awareness.”

Unfortunately, Emma broke her ankle in September so she’s now out of the running but good friend Kim has been talked into stepping into her shoes. “I am looking forward to race day’” says Kim, “and proud to run in support of Emma and Lipreading Life.”

Emma has great memories of the Great South Run since moving to Southsea in 2010. She’s run the event in the past sometimes alongside her husband Andrew and even her son Angus, who once took part in full American football gear. “I think I had the best fun though when I volunteered as a race marshal a few years ago. There’s such a buzz to the Great South Run,” she says.

“You see every kind of runner. Young, old, fast, slow, experienced, nervous, all out there for a reason. It’s incredibly inspiring.”
Training for Clare and Kim has been steady throughout the summer, though they admit it’s a bit of a mountain to climb. They’ll be leaning on the crowd for support to get them through those last few miles as they chase some respectable times.

With bold new T-shirts and plans for some eye-catching race-day photos, Clare and Kim will be hard to miss on the start line and their message is one we all need to see.

The ladies’ advice for first-time runners?

“Everyone has a different goal,” says Emma. “What’s yours? Go get it… and don’t forget to smile!”

Kim believes everyone has a runner in them. “Keep going,” she says. “Believe you can do it. One step at a time. Just keep going!”

“Pace yourself and enjoy it,” says Clare. “The supporters and atmosphere are amazing!”

As they prepare to take on 10 miles through Portsmouth’s historic streets, Clare and Kim are proof that running can be more than just a personal challenge, it can be a platform to build community, start conversations, and change lives.

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35 Years of Greatness at Great South Run: Russel’s Remarkable Journey https://www.greatrun.org/news/35-years-of-greatness-at-great-south-run-russels-remarkable-journey/ Wed, 15 Oct 2025 08:03:01 +0000 https://www.greatrun.org/news// Among the thousands taking to the streets of Portsmouth this Sunday for the AJ bell Great South Run is 46 year old Russel – a truly special individual who is supported by Pompey in the Community. Pompey in the Community is an award-winning charity which harnesses the motivational power of Portsmouth FC to promote education, […]

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Among the thousands taking to the streets of Portsmouth this Sunday for the AJ bell Great South Run is 46 year old Russel – a truly special individual who is supported by Pompey in the Community.

Pompey in the Community is an award-winning charity which harnesses the motivational power of Portsmouth FC to promote education, healthy living, sporting participation and achievement among vulnerable and disadvantaged people of all ages.

Living with learning difficulties and Tourette’s Syndrome, Russel has overcome many challenges in life by embodying everything the Great South Run stands for – determination, community, and heart.

Russel’s journey with running began over three decades ago, when he took part in his first fun run at just 10 years old. He enjoyed it then, and that same joy has never left him.
Fast forward to 2018, and Russel completed his very first Great South Run alongside his Mum and Auntie, proudly raising funds for Pompey in the Community, a charity who have supported him throughout his journey in life.

Russel loved the experience so much he returned to the Great South Run in 2019 and again in 2023, walking and running, this time with other members of Pompey in the Community’s adult disability group, a community where Russel has found friendship, routine, and unwavering support.

When the 2024 event was unfortunately cancelled due to the storm, Russel didn’t let that stop him. With his carer by his side, he completed his very own version of the Great South Run, a testament to his dedication and resilience. Every step was taken for Pompey in the Community, with all fundraising efforts going directly to the charity he loves so dearly.

Russel attends their adult disability sessions and visits the team at the office every Friday without fail. His presence lights up the room, and, as staff will tell you, “he never misses a chance to bring up the Great South Run – every single week!” It’s the highlight of his year, and he counts down the days with excitement.

Russel is described by those who know him as one of the kindest, most wholesome people you could ever meet. We’re proud to cheer Russel on, and even prouder to celebrate his story ahead of this weekend.

Find out more about the Great South Run, here.

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Sporting Legends Announced as Official Starters of 2025 Great South Run https://www.greatrun.org/news/sporting-legends-announced-as-official-starters-of-2025-great-south-run/ Wed, 15 Oct 2025 06:29:45 +0000 https://www.greatrun.org/news// Women’s Rugby World Cup Winner Jess Breach to be joined by Pompey icon Alan Knight and Dame Kelly Holmes to start the world’s greatest 10 mile event this Sunday. Sporting legends new and old will come together on the starting line of this weekend’s AJ Bell Great South Run. Hot off the success of the […]

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Women’s Rugby World Cup Winner Jess Breach to be joined by Pompey icon Alan Knight and Dame Kelly Holmes to start the world’s greatest 10 mile event this Sunday.

Sporting legends new and old will come together on the starting line of this weekend’s AJ Bell Great South Run.

Hot off the success of the Red Roses in the Women’s Rugby World Cup, Chichester born Jess Breach will be joined on the starters podium by Portsmouth FC Legend Alan Knight, to ring the bell to start the elite male athlete race before sending over 23,000 runners on their way to running greatness. Running royalty Dame Kelly Holmes will start the elite female athlete race to kick off the morning before joining the masses to take on the 10 mile route herself.

Jess, who began her rugby career from a young age at Chichester Rugby Cup, was one of England’s top performers in the recent World Cup, scoring a a hat-trick in the Red Roses’ record 92–3 win over Samoa and earning her 50th international cap during the pool-stage victory against Australia. Her starting position in every match of the tournament, including the final, reflected her importance to England’s game as one of the most dangerous finishers in the sport.

Simply called “The Legend” by Portsmouth fans, Alan Knight spent 22 years of his playing career at Portsmouth FC, holding the record for most appearance made by a goalkeeper for a single club, with 683 league games for Pompey between 1978 and 2000.  Late last year Alan revealed he had been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer, now using his public profile to raise awareness of the disease.

Dame Kelly Holmes is one of the most recognised faces in middle distance running following her illustrious career which included a historic double victory at the 2004 Athens Olympics in the 800m and 1500m events. Since retirement her love of running has not waned, regularly competing in high profile events include last month’s Great North Run whilst being a huge advocate for the many health benefits of running.

CEO of the Great Run Company Paul Foster said, “The South coast has a rich sporting history and we are honored that the Great South Run is part of this. The event has seen some incredible performances by British athletes, including wins by Liz and Eilish McColgan, Paula Radcliffe and Sir Mo Farah. We’re delighted to have Jess, Alan and Dame Kelly as our official race starters this year, joining previous South coast sporting legends including Dame Ellen MacArthur and Lizzie Yarnold. It’s a brilliant opportunity for all of our runners to be inspired by them as they set off on their 10 mile challenge!”

Since its inaugural event in 1990, the Great South Run has built an incredible legacy. With countless incredible moments and achievements across 35 years of running on the South Coast, tens of millions of pounds raised for charity, and British and European records broken along the route, the event has cemented its position as a firm favourite in the running calendar.

Runners will pass some of Portsmouth’s most iconic landmarks, enjoy picturesque views of the Isle of Wight and experience the incredible local support along the route, before crossing the finish line close to Southsea Castle for their well-earned medal and lively post-race celebrations.

Sunday’s Great South Run will be the culmination of a weekend of running greatness with Saturday featuring the Great South 5K and Junior & Mini Great South Run.

For more information on this year’s event, click here.

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35 Years of Greatness at the Great South Run: Stuart (PID) Hall and his Tribute to Claire Lomas https://www.greatrun.org/news/35-years-of-greatness-at-the-great-south-run-stuart-pid-hall-and-his-tribute-to-claire-lomas/ Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:57:11 +0000 https://www.greatrun.org/news// Over 35 years of running along the South Coast, the Great South Run has created special memories for many of the runners who take part year after year, no more so than Stuart (Pid) Hall who will be competing for the fourth time on Sunday 19 October. This year’s AJ Bell Great South Run is […]

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Over 35 years of running along the South Coast, the Great South Run has created special memories for many of the runners who take part year after year, no more so than Stuart (Pid) Hall who will be competing for the fourth time on Sunday 19 October.

This year’s AJ Bell Great South Run is the final leg of the Three Spokes Challenge to continue the legacy of the inspiring Claire Lomas MBE.

Stuart, who was affectionately called Pid by Claire said: “Following the tragic death in August last year of the amazing Claire Lomas, who was my inspiration and my best friend, I have vowed to continue with her charity fundraising. Claire raised over £952k for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation before her death, and our target is to reach £1million, which would be a fantastic legacy to a lady who touched so many hearts.”

The Three Spokes Challenge has seen Pid alongside Claire’s husband, Dan, complete the Great Manchester Run, Great North Run, and now the Great South Run in wheelchairs raising fund and awareness for Claire’s legacy. It is the 11th Great Run Series event they will have taken part in.

Pid and Dan will be joined by Claire’s parents and other family and friends in what will undoubtedly be an emotional event for all involved.

“Claire loved the Great Run events, and the Great South Run will be the final event in our Three Spokes Challenge, and one so close to our heart, it will be very emotional but something Claire would have loved. Her family are running with us and Claire’s daughters Maisie, 14, and Chloe, 8, will be taking part in the Junior and Mini Great South Run the day before before, and then waving us off at the startline on Sunday. It will be a truly fitting tribute.”

Claire from Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire, started raising money for charity after she was paralysed from the chest down in 2007. Claire was the first person in the UK to use the ReWalk suit – completing the 2012 London Marathon in 17 days in the suit, and the Great North Run in 2016 – and becoming known as the ‘bionic woman’ through her achievements.

“The Great South Run holds special memories for us as it was an event she loved, and one that Claire & I completed three times together. The first time was for her 10in24 challenge in 2017 where she walked it in her robotic suit, walking through the night. I then ran alongside Claire when she did it in her wheelchair, and then again with Claire this time in her spare wheelchair together with Dan. “

“Claire was my inspiration for many things but most of all she was my best friend. We did so many things together including all her fundraising events and she made such a huge difference to so many lives. I just feel it is right that I carry on with this fundraising as it’s my way of saying thank you for letting me share her life. Usually, Claire has been by my side, but she will be riding in my heart forever now.” explained Pid.

This year’s AJ Bell Great South Run marks 35 years of the iconic 10-mile race. The 2025 edition is officially sold out, with record-breaking numbers expected to line the streets of Portsmouth for what promises to be the most unforgettable event yet.

For more information on this year’s event click here.

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AJ Bell Great South Run – What to Expect this Weekend https://www.greatrun.org/news/aj-bell-great-south-run-what-to-expect-this-weekend/ Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:40:40 +0000 https://www.greatrun.org/news// With just days left before the world’s greatest 10 mile event, the AJ Bell Great South Run, returns to Portsmouth, here’s what to expect at the festival of running across the weekend. Celebrating 35 Years of Running Greatness Since its inaugural event in 1990, the Great South Run has built an incredible legacy with countless […]

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With just days left before the world’s greatest 10 mile event, the AJ Bell Great South Run, returns to Portsmouth, here’s what to expect at the festival of running across the weekend.

Celebrating 35 Years of Running Greatness

Since its inaugural event in 1990, the Great South Run has built an incredible legacy with countless incredible moments and achievements, tens of millions of pounds raised for charity, and British and European records broken along the route.

Following the cancellation of the 2024 edition due to a storm, the Great South Run returns bigger and better than ever for an amazing weekend celebration of running which will see over 25,000 runners of all ages take part, cheered on as always by the unbeatable Pompey supporters who line the course in their thousands.

UK Athletics 10 Mile Championships

The very best of British runners are set to compete in the UKA 10 Mile Championships in the elite men’s and women’s races on Sunday, starting from 10:15.

Expect to see some blistering performance with the elite men’s race set to be a battle of returning Great South Run champions, with the starting line-up featuring 2021 winner Jack Rowe and 2019 Champion Marc Scott. Verity Ockenden leads the British women’s charge, returning to the Great South Run with her sights set on securing a win after finishing both 2nd and 3rd in previous years.

Breathtaking Views and Iconic Landmarks

The event is world-famous for a reason. Stunning running takes on new meaning with a course packed with panoramic coastal views, miles of glorious seafront and iconic landmarks including Southsea Castle, HMS Victory, Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard, The Spinnaker Tower and more.

A Super Saturday Build-Up Featuring the Gladiators

The AJ Bell Great South 5k is the perfect kick off to the Great South Run weekend. From 9am, runners will enjoy beautiful views across the Solent, an incredible atmosphere, lovely fresh sea air and a fast & flat route – we expect runners of all abilities to score a new PB.

It’s not just grown-up runners who love to be by the seaside, mini and junior runners love it, too! Minis aged 3-8 will run a fun and energetic 1.2km, whilst Juniors aged 9-15yrs complete a 2.5km route before receiving a very special and well-earned AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great South Run medal at the finish line.

Stars of the hit BBC Show Gladiators Quang Luong (Viper) and Jade Packer (Electro) will be official race starters on Saturday before welcoming runners back with high fives and photos.

An Atmosphere Like No Other

Nothing gets the legs pumping like the incredible Pompey support that lines the course with sweets and cheers. And that’s not all: we’ve also got music and charity cheer squads lined up along the route to keep a smile on your face – and to keep those feet pounding the pavement.

Sustainable Initiatives

We’re working to make the Great South Run greener each year. As well as organising event day clothing collections, we’re asking all runners to Drink, Drain, Aim, and use the Aqua Pura recycling stations on the route. You can also bring your unwanted shoes with you on race day and drop them at the shoe recycling collection point to keep them out of landfill.

Shiny Medal and Snazzy T-shirt

The best thing about taking part in an event is the “I did it!” sense of achievement – but the bragging rights are a close second. Every runner also receives a shiny, specially-designed medal and (optional) finisher t-shirt. Savour the moment when you get yours – you’ve earnt it!

Charities and Fundraising

Each year, everyday heroes (that’s our runners) make a difference and raise thousands of pounds for worthy causes. Expect a sea of colourful charity running tops, cheer stations aplenty and a whole lot of emotions. Join them and show your support where you can.

A Finish Line Party

You’ve done it! 10 miles is an incredible achievement – but the fun doesn’t end at the finish line. Cross the line and soak up the beats from the live DJ, before heading on to the Après Run zone for the complete after-party experience. Expect delicious food, refreshing drinks and even more music.

Follow the Action – Download the App

Whether you’re a runner or spectator, don’t miss a second of the Great South Run action – download the Great Run Event Day app for free on the App Store or Google Play here.

If you’re running on Sunday then the app will give you all the key info at your fingertips, plus speedy access to your finish time result. If you’re watching from the sidelines, then all you need is a participant’s name or run number and you can track multiple runners at the same time. Thanks to timing mats at intervals along the course you’ll be able to track your runner’s pace and expected finish time, plus donate to chosen charities.

Find more information on this year’s event here.

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