How organisers of the Great North Run plan to keep you moving this summer with virtual challenge
This year’s 40th Great North Run may not be going ahead as planned – but organisers are doing everything they can to keep people fit and stay involved with running ahead of the 2021 race.
Organisers Great Run this week announced that the famous half-marathon, which takes place every September and runs from Newcastle to South Shields, would not be going ahead as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
The outbreak means that the 40th anniversary race will instead take place in 2021.
But, despite the cancellation, Great Run has been working on plans to help keep runners active, and this week announced the launch of Great North Run Reimagined.
Revealed on Friday, June 19 – Great Run Solo gives runners the chance to sign up and clock 40 runs between Sunday, June 28 and Sunday, September 13 – the day this year’s race should have taken place.
The announcement said: “The Great North Run cancellation means we can’t all run together on 13 September, so today we’re launching Great North Run Reimagined.
“It's a virtual running campaign to provide you with a Great North Run experience to remember.
“From your training and preparation, right down to a virtual race experience, we will put the framework in place so that you can still 'Be Your Greatest'.”
It costs £10 to take part, with profits going towards the NHS Charities Together Covid-19 Urgent Appeal.
Those who complete the challenge will also receive a special edition medal.