What to Expect at the AJ Bell Great North Run
The AJ Bell Great North Run Weekend is almost here, and we can’t wait for you to be part of it. Whether you’ll be raring to go on the start line, or part of the thousands lining the streets in support – there is so much to be excited about.
Expect a true celebration of the Power of Running across the weekend’s 5k, Junior and Mini events, and half-marathon, with an exhilarating party atmosphere, some incredible fundraising exploits and countless challenges conquered. This year’s event promises to be a special one, so here are some things to look and listen out for on Sunday 10 September:
A Fitting Farewell to a Legend
Four-time Olympic gold medalist, six-time World Champion and (most importantly of all!) six-time Great North winner, Sir Mo Farah epitomises the Power of Running. It’s fitting that this year’s event will provide the stage for his last ever professional race. For fans and fellow runners, this is a unique opportunity to celebrate his illustrious career and be a part of one final, momentous race – #OneMoTime if you will.
The Iconic Half-Marathon Route
Picture the scene – you’re running along the mighty Tyne Bridge, with the distinctive Newcastle skyline behind you, the Sage to your left, and the Baltic beyond that. Or maybe you’re more about hitting the coast, seeing the sea and taking in the “greatest final mile” in road running as you near the famous South Shields finish. Either way, Paula Radcliffe, who’s won it twice, described it as an “iconic course” and she isn’t wrong.
The Red Arrows
The roar of the Red Arrows overhead is a truly special moment. They first joined the event in 2002 and have been a much-loved feature ever since. See them soar over the Tyne Bridge, leaving vibrant streaks of red, white and blue in their wake as they head to the Coast for their famous South Shields performance at the finish. Make sure to give them a wave and a cheer when you spot them, you won’t be alone!
An Action Packed Weekend: 8 – 10 Sept
The weekend kicks off in style on Friday evening with 2,000 runners taking on the fast and flat AJ Bell Great North 5K, and some of Britian’s best athletes taking part in the UK Road Championships over 5K and 1 mile.
Next up, the kids take centre stage on Super Saturday – the AJ Bell Junior and Mini Great North Run is the UK’s biggest kids running event, with 10,000 juniors (ages 9-16) and minis (ages 3-8) taking part. There’s nothing quite like the amazing sight of thousands of happy, smiling, active kids taking part for fun, for charity, for a challenge, and earning a very special medal for their efforts.
On Sunday, it’s half-marathon time. 13.1 miles stand between 60,000 runners and the finish line. At the front of the field some of the world’s best athletes will battle it out to be crowned the 2023 champion, but the AJ Bell Great North Run is also about ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
-
That Unforgettable Finish Line Feeling
There is no greater reward for all your hard work and training than the pure joy you will experience as you cross the finish line, completing a half-marathon, with the remarkable local support cheering you on. Fingers crossed, with the help of our brilliant Solgar pacemakers, you will have achieved a half-marathon time you were hoping for. Sweaty hugs and high fives will be exchanged before a well-deserved medal is placed around your neck, making the moment even more special. The BBC will be televising the event so who knows – your friends and family at home might be able to share the joy of the moment too, by spotting you on the T.V.
-
An Atmosphere Like No Other
13.1 miles of unbeatable local support, 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 the North East’s best Samba bands, there are surprises and old favourites along the way to build that jubilant atmosphere, turning a running event into a party. Once you reach the finish, there’s the Après Run Zone – more live music to keep the celebrations going. Enjoy listening to a live DJ, or kick back and tuck into a range of tasty food options – you’ve earned it! Have a look here for a full list of what’s on offer.
It’s shaping up to be an action-packed weekend and we can’t wait to see you there. To stay up-to-date with the latest event news and join the conversation on social media, have a look at our channels on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Related Articles
1/11
Reigning team champions return to Birmingham
As winners of last year’s Business Challenge, Solihull School returns to the start line for the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run.
Groundbreaking Joint Venture for Future of Athletics in the UK
UK Athletics (UKA), The Great Run Company (GRC) and London Marathon Events (LME) today announced the creation of a new joint venture, Athletic Ventures.
Doting Brothers Set to Race in Memory of Baby Sister
Two loving brothers from Newcastle-Under-Lyme are limbering up to take on the AJ Bell Junior and Mini Great Birmingham Run in memory of their little sister.
Great Birmingham Run scores a hat-trick!
With a month to go before the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run, the three football clubs are encouraging fans to run for their community foundations.
Arup are up for the challenge on Sunday 5 May
39 runners from engineering giant Arup are taking on the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run Business Challenge.
Taking it in Their Stride in Memory of a Friend
One team of Great Birmingham Run runners is gearing up for a challenge that goes beyond the miles they'll pound on the pavement.
10 Reasons you should run the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run
As we countdown to event day on 5 May, we spell out 10 reasons why you should get involved and (if you haven’t already!) sign up.
Emon’s expert tips for training during Ramadan
A reality TV star who ran back to back marathons while fasting during Ramadan is now aiming to inspire his fellow Muslim runners.
Power of Running: Andrew Porter
Andrew Porter, 47, has ran every Great Manchester Run 10k since it started in 2003. Read Andrew's story.
Power of Running: Halee Robinson
After falling out of love with running Halee signed up for the Great Birmingham Run and hasn't looked back. Read Halee's story.
Power of Running: Helen Ryvar
Helen Ryvar is the Guinness World Record Holder for running the most consecutive half marathons, hitting 111 back in 2021. Read Helen's story.
