There’s just one week left to enter the ballot for a chance to be part of this year’s GNR – the UK’s biggest running event and world’s biggest half marathon on Sunday 8 September 2024.
With 60,000 entrants, the event isn’t just the biggest, the popularity of the AJ Bell Great North Run grows every year with 99% of finishers surveyed recommending the event to a friend.
Hundreds of famous faces have taken part in the GNR over the years, and this year’s no different, the first confirmed to be on the start line are from popular TV competition, Traitors, led by Diane Carson, who is leading a team of Traitors to take part this September.
Running the famous route from Newcastle to South Shields is made extra special when you get to take in the iconic Tyne Bridge, hit the coast road at 1 mile to go, hear the ‘oggy oggy oggy’ chants –combined with the buzz of the loyal spectators, all help to make the Great North Run an experience like no other.
Paul Foster, Chief Executive of the Great Run Company, said: “This year’s ballot has opened with an incredible enthusiasm from the public, which continues to demonstrate that the Great North Run means a great deal to so many and remains an absolute bucket list event that everyone needs to experience at least once.
“If taking part in a Great North Run is something you’ve thought about, make 2024 your year and sign up to the ballot. We look forward to welcoming new and returning runners for another incredible staging of the event this September.”
The event is broadcast live on the BBC and to 169 territories around the world, showcasing the best of the region nationally and internationally.
The positive economic impact of the event on the North East’s economy is over £30 million and runners participating for good causes raise an estimated £25 million in charitable donations every year.
The ballot for the AJ Bell Great North Run will run until 10AM on Monday 12 February. You can enter the ballot today at greatrun.org/north.