This year’s Great North Run was the 43rd edition, with very aggressive competition in outstanding performances within all categories. The event in Newcastle welcomed around 60,000 runners and spectators alike, with feelings not only of human endurance but also community spirit and sportsmanship that give this race its special touch.
A spectacular beginning
The wheelchair race got the day started—a race that really showed athleticism and determination from its competitors. The defending champion, John Boy Smith, did not disappoint, first across the finish line in the men’s wheelchair division in 48:59. Smith ran with skill and speed, which is how he has held his position in this category.
Next over the line was Sean Frame in 49:39, with third place going to Spain’s Rafael Botallo Jimenez in 52:09. Meanwhile, the wheelchair women’s competition was equally exciting, as Jade Hall returned to running after giving birth to her baby. Hall took first place in 58:26 after months of hard training following childbirth. It wasn’t just a personal triumph but an inspirational moment when one saw just how resilient and strong she was. Claudia Burrough came in second place with a time of 1:06:52, while Carmen Gimenez from Spain secured the third place with a time of 1:28:03.
Elite Men’s Race: Clash of the Giants
The elite men’s competition got underway in truly electric form. Kenyan Abel Kipchumba won in an astonishing 59:52. Indeed, he put his pace and endurance to the test, earning his first place.
Marc Scott came through to finish second here in 1:01:12, fresh from his victory in the UK Athletics 5K Road Running Championship earlier in the week. Scott’s time was a considerable improvement upon his finish in 2021 and showed just how well he has been running consistently with hard work.
Third was Norway’s Sondre Moen in 1:01:25, while Filmon Tesfu of Ethiopia finished in 1:02:14. Other Kenyan representatives, Evans Chebet, finished fifth in 1:02:31, as Frank Lara and Kenya Sonota also showed their prowess, finishing sixth and seventh, respectively. Seyfu Jamaal rounded off the top eight with a course time of 1:03:33.
Elite Women’s Race: A photo finish.
The real drama, however, was in the women’s elite race, with no holds barred among some of the best runners in the world. Mary Ngugi-Cooper of Kenya took it in 1:07:40. For the winner, it was a dream realized because, for long, she had wanted to take part and win the Great North Run. Speed at the finish, coupled with tactical acumen, defined Ngugi-Cooper’s performance.
Compatriot Senbere Teferi was a second behind Ngugi-Cooper as she finished second in 1:07:41, while countrywoman Alemu Megertu finished third in 1:07:42. Sheila Chepkirui and Eilish McColgan completed the top five with 1:07:44 and 1:07:45, respectively. The latter, just back from an injury, showed outstanding mettle and fighting spirit as she tore through the finish line.
Jade Hall’s Tearful Homecoming
The lady’s wheelchair race produced one of the more stirring stories of the day, with Jade Hall moving to the top of the podium. Hall’s victory meant a great deal more, given this was her first half marathon since having a baby girl back in March. She finished in 58:26, indicative of hard work and dedication in between motherly duties and training.
An overjoyed Hall said she felt satisfied with her performance, noting the changes she had to make to her training after the pregnancy. “I am really happy with how today went, and I have been training really hard,” Hall said. “I do feel like I have a different body now; I’m working with a different body and learning how that works for me.”
A Community Celebration
But beyond the individual achievements, the Great North Run 2024 was one of community and camaraderie. It brought together people who run from every walk of life, each with their own stories and reasons. Newcastle and South Shields were so encouraging and supportive, with people lining the route, cheering and celebrating the participants.
The race once again underlined the power of sport to uplift and bring together both elite athletes and fun runners, whether they like competing or are just happy to be a participant in one of the world’s most famous events.
Looking Ahead Now, with the Great North Run 2024 done and dusted, interest turns to the next. It has moved with the times, showcasing fresh stars but still retaining its elite half-marathon status. For the thousands participating, it’s a unique opportunity to cross off a goal and add a new chapter to the history and tradition of arguably the most iconic athletics event. Whether you are an accomplished runner, a first-timer, or an enthusiastic spectator, the Great North Run offers a unique experience that no other event can match. Stories of success, determination, and camaraderie from this year’s event will continue to inspire and encourage many for years to come.
Final Thoughts the Great North Run 2024 was a day of genuine athletic achievement and human spirit. From the jaw-dropping elite performances on the track to the emotional return of Jade Hall, this year really did encapsulate it all with dedication and resilience from all concerned. The important thing is that as we look forward to next year’s race, one thing is certain: the Great North Run will go on being a beacon for inspiration, a celebration of running at its finest.
