A dazzler of a T-shirt, showing key moments in the Great North Run's history, has been revealed ahead of this year's event.
Sir Brendan Foster, who founded the world-famous half-marathon, showed off the new design for both the run's iconic T-shirt and medal which will be awarded when this year's participants pass the finish line. And with the T-shirt's pictures and words reflecting everything from route landmarks to the famous 'oggy, oggy, oggy' chant, the Olympian said it will be "an incredible souvenir".
Following its Covid cancellation in 2020, the Great North Run celebrated its delayed 40-year anniversary last year, with an altered route missing out South Shields. This September 11's event - the 41st - will see a return to form, with the traditional finish at the coast now restored.
Read more : What to expect from 2022's Great North Run
The run's long history is reflected on the T-shirt, with scenes on a pale blue background including the Tyne Bridge, South Shields' Groyne Lighthouse, Red Arrows and six-time winner Sir Mo Farah alongside Geordie sayings such as 'Howaaaay!' and 'Yi Did It Man, Get In!'. Emblazoned across the front is the word 'Finisher'.
It has been designed by Morpeth-based illustrator James Dixon whose familiar Lines Behind colourful artwork will be showcased on all Great North Run mementos and memorabilia. The artist called the opportunity to design the T-shirt and medals a "dream come true".
He added: “The Great North Run is one of the region’s best loved events and I’ve taken part myself many times. I can’t wait to see all those thousands of runners proudly wearing their T-shirt after the event.
”I love seeing people going into the pubs and restaurants or on their journey home, with their medals too. It's massive for me that this year, that medal will be my work.”
His design incorporates little details too that will be familiar to regular runners, such as the ice pops that are always handed out by spectators along the route.
Sir Brendan called it a "fantastic design" and said: “The event means so many things to so many people, it’s great to see some of those shared experiences brought to life here in a way runners will be able to relate to. Whether 2022 is your 41st Great North Run or your first, this year’s T-shirt will be an incredible souvenir that will bring back great memories every time you pull it on."
The new design will be seen on the range of Great North Run memorabilia - including prints, mugs and greetings cards - which is available from the Lines Behind site from this Tuesday. There also will be an opportunity to buy personalised items which can include runners' names and finish time. For more information see here.
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