Excitement is building as thousands of runners from around the world prepare to lace up their sneakers for the 42nd edition of the Great North Run, a prestigious half marathon and the world’s largest of its kind. After a hiatus in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this iconic event is set to take place on Sunday, September 10, 2023. Participants will embark on a challenging 13.1-mile journey, starting from the heart of Newcastle city centre and culminating at the scenic South Shields seafront.
At the forefront of this year’s race are some of the world’s elite long-distance runners, promising a thrilling contest. The legendary four-time Olympic champion, Mo Farah, will be aiming for an unprecedented seventh consecutive victory in the Great North Run, marking his final appearance in track and field before retirement. Farah’s pursuit of history will not be without stiff competition, as Ethiopian sensation Haile Gebrselassie, holder of the world record for the half marathon, seeks to challenge the British icon.
While the elite athletes will capture the headlines, the Great North Run is a testament to its inclusivity, with participants ranging from celebrities to fundraisers and everyday individuals, each running for diverse causes and charities close to their hearts. Notable names joining the race include TV presenter Davina McCall, comedian Jason Manford, and Paralympic champion Hannah Cockroft, making this event a showcase of both sporting prowess and philanthropy.
Founded in 1981 by former Olympic bronze medallist Brendan Foster, the Great North Run has blossomed into one of the world’s premier mass participation events. It attracts a wide spectrum of runners, from novices seeking personal achievements to elite athletes pushing the boundaries of human performance.
For those unable to witness the race in person, the Great North Run will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, commencing at 10:00 AM BST. International viewers can access the free stream online through VPN services, ensuring that the global audience can share in the excitement.
As the world eagerly anticipates the return of the Great North Run, this iconic event promises not only thrilling competition at the elite level but also a celebration of human determination and compassion. With runners from all walks of life uniting in the pursuit of their goals, the 42nd edition of this renowned half marathon is set to captivate hearts and inspire spectators around the globe.
Resources:
1.https://newcastlegateshead.com/events/great-north-run-2023
3.https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/23693686.great-north-run-2023-start-time-route-finish-line/
4.https://www.greatrun.org/events/great-north-run/
5.https://www.techradar.com/streaming/great-north-run-live-stream-2023-watch-mo-farahs-last-race
6.https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-tyne-66750638