The Bupa Great Birmingham Run, now in its second year, is the biggest half marathon in the Midlands.

Formerly known as the Birmingham Half Marathon the event was first staged in staged in 2008, and in 2009 also incorporated the World Half Marathon Championships.

England’s 2nd city is the perfect stage for the event which attracts competitors from across the UK and around the world.

Kenyan Micah Kogo won a thrilling sprint for the line ahead of Abera Kuma to set a new course record. Kogo who dominated the race almost from the start, breasted the tape in a time of one hour and 17 seconds to deny his Ethiopian rival victory by two seconds with World record holder and pre-race favourite Zersenay Tadese third in 1:01:06.

On a very misty morning, Kogo - after losing in last month's Bupa Great North Run by a second - made amends by smashing the course record of 1:01:29 set a year ago by the legendary Ethiopian, Haile Gebrselassie.

Despite that defeat the 26-year-old former Olympic 10,000 metres bronze medallist's confidence was sky high after a posting a World class time of 59:07 in the Tyneside race and it clearly showed as he took up the pace after the first mile passed in a speedy 4:30.

The course takes in some of the city’s most iconic sights including the Bullring, the Cadbury’s factor in Bourneville and Edgbaston cricket ground. Live music from ‘band on the run’ keep you motivated every step of the way and hundreds of supporters turn out to cheer finishers across the line on Broad Street in the heart of the city centre.

Whether you choose to run to raise money, complete a personal challenge or as part of the journey towards a healthier lifestyle, succeed with the Bupa Great Birmingham Run!

Full Race Report