Portsmouth Comes Alive at the AJ Bell Great South Run
The AJ Bell Great South Run Showcases Spirit and Speed on Portsmouth’s Streets. Portsmouth played host to a spectacular showcase of stamina and spirit this weekend as the AJ Bell Great South Run returned to its iconic seaside location. Over 20,000 enthusiastic runners, from budding hopefuls to elite athletes, embraced the bracing sea air and unparalleled views.
The weekend’s action got underway on Saturday, 14 October, with young runners making a splash in marine-themed costumes for the AJ Bell Junior and Mini Great South Run.
Saturday also spotlighted the popular 5K event, a heart-warming testament to personal stories and community support. Particularly memorable was a team of 14 colleagues from B&Q, who laced up in remembrance of their late colleague, Cathy Currie. Their strides raised crucial funds for Rowan’s Hospice Portsmouth, who provided care and comfort during Cathy’s final days.
Former Royal Marines Commando and TV personality from Channel 4’s Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, Chris Oliver, was on double duty. Not only did he signal the start of the races, but he also ran in support of RMA – The Royal Marines Charity. Chris commented, “Seeing participants of all ages come together, especially for charitable causes, is nothing short of inspiring. It’s an honour to champion RMA – The Royal Marines Charity today.”
The stage was set on Sunday for the world-renowned 10-mile race. Zakariya Mahamed of Southampton AC led the men’s 10-mile event with a time of 00:46:41, closely followed by Jacob Allen of Highgate Harriers AC at 00:47:13, and Omar Ahmed of Birchfield Harriers finishing at 00:47:31. Among the women, Lily Partridge of Birchfield Harriers reaffirmed her dominance, completing her run in 00:54:04. Hannah Irwin of Cambridge & Coleridge AC and Amelia Quirk of Bracknell Athletic Club followed closely, completing their races in 00:54:30 and 00:54:37 respectively.
Paul Foster, Chief Executive at the Great Run Company, expressed his elation, “The AJ Bell Great South Run in Portsmouth never ceases to amaze. The energy, the dedication, and most importantly, the communal spirit, are brilliant to behold. Congratulations to all the runners, and a massive thank you to the unwavering supporters who lined the course.”
The AJ Bell Great South Run is back on 19 & 20 October 2024 and entries are now open at a Super Earlybird price. Sign up now for next year now at greatrun.org/events/great-south-run/, but hurry, the offer is limited to 1000 places!
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