The 43rd edition of world’s largest and most famous half marathon has smashed previous records, with the announcement of an all-time high figure of around 65,000 people taking part.
The event, which was held on September 8th, has now been confirmed as the most successful in its history, with the total number of runners, as well as the money raised, surpassing previous figures.
Recent statistics have confirmed that an incredible 25 million pounds has been raised, with those hailing from the North East, and thousands who travelled from far and wide, putting themselves to the limit for a fantastic cause.
The outcome was a major victory for the North East, as the iconic sense of community and charity that attracts so many, contributing to a fantastic turnout. Gil Barton, who ran for Great Ormand Street, experienced the race for the first time and was taken back by the unrivalled spirit of the day.
He labelled the event as ‘like nothing i’ve ever experienced’ and emphasised the communal feeling, telling me how the crowd “get behind you every step of the way, making it feel like the whole city is on its feet to support you”.
Over 1,000 registered charities reaped the benefits of the event, as masses sported spectacular costumes and colours in aid of an array of fantastic causes – from global appeals to local organisations close to personal hearts such as the Newcastle Hospital Charity, and the NSPCC.
I spoke to Camellia Lightle, asking her about the benefits of the run on charities based in the North East, and how it creates a sense of community in the region.
A 19 year old Newcastle University student, Camellia completed her second successive Great North Run, raising money for the local Great North Children’s Hospital.
In typical Newcastle fashion, the city erupted into festivity with an infectious energy in the aftermath of the race.
Camellia described how “there was an overwhelming sense of happiness across the city centre, as if everyone was celebrating together”, with the historic streets overflowing with jubilant runners commemorating their achievement by storming the city’s pubs, cafes and iconic squares.
The benefits of the event didn’t stop at the run itself, with the major influx of people providing a significant boost to the local economy.
Gil was one of those to contribute to the city’s touristic spur, travelling from his hometown of Nottingham to be a part of the event, and recalling how “the buzz around the place was special, I have never seen such an atmosphere across an entire city.”
It is estimated that people from 80 countries took part in the race, meaning hotel, restaurants, and transport bookings surged, with figures on the general boost to the North East’s economy attained as a result of the race, sitting at around a staggering £35m.