Eager runners all over the country will no doubt be beginning their preparations for some of the major running events of the year. Among these will be Newcastle’s own Great North Run.
The half marathon is attended by tens of thousands of participants each year, with many running to raise much-needed funds for great causes. As well as the runners themselves, there are also thousands of spectators who turn out to cheer on the runners along every inch of the 13.1-mile route.
The 2022 event was held during the period of national mourning following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, marked with a minute’s silence and a chorus of God Save the King. Here is everything you need to know about getting involved with the 2023 race.
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When is the Great North Run 2023?
This year, the largest half marathon in the world will take place on September 10, 2023. Things usually get started with the elite men’s race beginning at around 10:30am to 10:45am, though these times are subject to change.
How can I enter the Great North Run 2023?
There are a number of ways to run in the Great North Run including running solo, taking place on behalf of a charity to raise funds, or if you’re at the top of your game as an elite athlete.
How do I enter the Great North Run ballot for 2023?
The ballot opens on January 9, 2023 and closes on February 20, 2023. The draw is set to take place on February 20, with all successful entries notified by 5pm on February 24.
Entering the Great North Run via the ballot comes at a cost, with entries costing £62 plus a £2 booking fee. Participants are urged to ensure that they have funds available in their bank account on the closing date as if payment is unsuccessful, their place may be forfeited.
Can I run the Great North Run on behalf of a charity?
There are hundreds of charities that partner with the organisers of the Great North Run to offer places to runners keen to fundraise for good causes. Each charity will have an entry fee to cover your place in the race and you’ll be expected to hit a minimum fundraising goal that can range from £150 to £500.
If you think that running for a charity is the way for you, then reach out to some of your favourite causes to see if you can take part on their behalf. Team spaces are limited so it’s best to reach out as soon as you decide you would like to enter the race.
Am I classed as an elite athlete for the Great North Run?
Elite athletes must meet a certain criteria to race in top tiers of the Great North Run. A limited number of complimentary entries will be available for each Great Run event for athletes who have achieved the elite performance criteria.
Any athlete wishing to be considered for elite entry should have achieved the elite performance criteria (at any distance) since January 1 of the previous year. Achieving the elite performance criteria below does not guarantee elite entry as places are limited:
| Distance | Men | Women |
| 10k | 30:30 | 36:30 |
| 10 Mile | 51:00 | 62:00 |
| Half Marathon | 67:00 | 80:00 |
| Marathon | 2:24:00 | 2:53:00 |
Is there any other way to join the Great North Run 2023?
Great North Run members will have the opportunity to sign up for priority entry, giving them early access to registration and guaranteeing their place in the next race. However, according to Great Run, memberships for the Great North Run have completely sold out for 2023, 2024 and 2025.
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