35 Years of Greatness at Great South Run: Dr Emma Egging

Dr Emma Egging, founder of the Jon Egging Trust (JET), returns to the AJ Bell Great South Run this October to champion the potential of young people across Hampshire and beyond. Through her work at JET, Emma is continuing a mission to inspire and uplift young people using the values of teamwork, resilience, and opportunity.

JET was established in 2012 to honour the legacy of her husband, Flight Lieutenant Jon Egging who lost his life following an air display with the Red Arrows at the Bournemouth Air Festival in 2011. He was passionate about using aviation and STEM as a springboard to inspire and support young people to reach their full potential.

“The Great South Run is about celebrating how far JET has come over the last 13 years,” says Emma, “and sharing our belief that every young person deserves to have the support they need to be the best they can be.”

Since its founding, JET has supported thousands of young people who are struggling to engage at school or have lost direction. Through long-term mentoring and access to life-changing opportunities, the charity helps them discover their potential and thrive beyond the classroom.

Emma is no stranger to the 10-mile course around Portsmouth – this year marks her fourth time taking part. This year, she’ll be joined by Jon’s sister, Abi.

Emma (left) and Abi pictured at the Great South Run

“We’re incredibly proud to run together,” says Emma. “It’s a reminder of why we do what we do, to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the incredible young people we support at JET. Many are overcoming huge challenges, and their determination inspires me every day.”

Running has long been part of Emma’s life, having taken it up at age 17, but training for longer distances while juggling a busy family and work life can still be tough.

“Getting the distance in is always a challenge, which is why having a goal like the Great South Run is so motivating and settling a goal and committing to something we work hard to develop in our young people.”

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 Emma, the symbolism of the race mirrors the journey many young people at JET take – pushing beyond comfort zones, unlocking potential, and discovering a future they didn’t think possible.

“Taking part in events like this is all about achieving more than you think you can. That’s exactly what we do with our young people at JET – we help them to succeed, no matter the challenges they face.”

And her advice to anyone considering their first Great South Run?

“Be brave and give it a go! It’s a wonderful course – mostly flat – and the atmosphere in Portsmouth is second to none. The support from the crowds will carry you through, and you’ll feel an incredible sense of pride when you cross that finish line.”

Limited spaces are still available for the AJ Bell Great South 5k, the Junior and Mini Great South Run and this year’s 10-mile are now sold out, sign up to our 2026 reminder here.