The North East of England was alive with energy, excitement, and a touch of rain on September 7, 2025, as the Great North Run returned for another spectacular year. Widely regarded as one of the world’s biggest and most beloved half marathons, the event saw an estimated 60,000 runners lace up their trainers and take on the iconic 13.1-mile (21 km) course stretching from Newcastle city centre, through Gateshead and South Tyneside, before culminating in a triumphant finish at South Shields. With over 200,000 enthusiastic supporters lining the route, the day was a true celebration of endurance, community spirit, and charitable causes.
This year’s race was marked by a blend of elite athleticism and sheer fun, with participants ranging from world-class runners to costumed fundraisers. The event’s founder, Sir Brendan Foster, reflected on its remarkable evolution, noting, “The whole dimension of the thing is much bigger. The age group is changing slightly, with more young people now taking up running. The first Great North Run there were 8% of women running, last year 49% of the runners were women. I’m just so happy it’s taking place here in the North East, it has become iconic.”
The elite races saw world-renowned athletes battle it out for top honors. In the women’s elite division, Sheila Chepkirui, the reigning 2024 New York Marathon champion, stormed to victory with a time of 1:09:32. Speaking at the finish line, Chepkirui described the final stretch as “really amazing,” adding, “The crowd was cheering us all the way.” Close behind her, Eilish McColgan finished third, just ten seconds adrift. On the men’s side, Alex Mutiso claimed the title with an impressive 1:00:52, cementing his place among the half marathon’s elite.
Not to be outdone, the wheelchair races delivered their own dramatic moments. Sean Frame, last year’s runner-up, took the men’s wheelchair crown in 49:24, while Mel Nicholls captured the women’s title in 1:05:24. The achievements of these athletes drew admiration from the crowds and highlighted the inclusive spirit of the Great North Run.
The starting line was a star-studded affair, with famous faces turning out to lend their support and, in some cases, join the action. Newcastle United’s Jacob Murphy and Nick Pope were on hand to see off the runners, with Pope quipping, “Slow and steady wins the race would be a goalkeeper’s stance on it.” Olympic legend Dame Kelly Holmes, Dragons’ Den star Sara Davies, and fitness coach Joe Wicks also featured prominently, with Wicks participating in both the main event and the Junior Great North Run the previous day.
For Joe Wicks, the event was more than just a race. “This is one of the best crowds ever, and it’s one of the greatest and most enjoyable running races on Earth,” he declared after crossing the finish line. Wicks, who celebrated his 40th birthday this month, emphasized the importance of movement and camaraderie, echoing the sentiments of many participants who view the Great North Run as a celebration rather than a competition.
Boxer Tommy Fury tackled his first Great North Run with characteristic determination, aiming to finish in 1 hour 40 minutes or less. Speaking before the race, Fury admitted, “[I am] just looking to get over the line in one piece to be honest,” referencing the fatigue from a recent triathlon. After completing the course in under two hours, Fury was effusive in his praise: “That was probably the best run I’ve ever done. What a place. That support—even boxing, I don’t think, even when I’m in the ring, I don’t feel supported like that.”
Community and charity were at the heart of the event, with countless runners donning fancy dress to raise money for worthy causes. Colin Burgin-Plews, a familiar figure in his big pink dress, ran for Cancer Research UK in memory of his father, who passed away earlier this year. “He was here every year for me,” Burgin-Plews shared, running in tribute to his father’s enduring support. Ukrainian refugee women living in Sunderland also took part, raising funds for the Salvation Army, which had helped them settle in the UK.
The Great North Run has always been known for its festive atmosphere, and 2025 was no exception. From Captain Jack Sparrow and Scooby Doo to Dennis the Menace and hot dogs, runners in inventive costumes brought smiles to faces along the route. DJ Schak kept spirits high with a live DJ set, later describing the experience as “wicked” and full of “pure camaraderie.”
As thousands made their way across the historic Tyne Bridge—a highlight for many and a symbol of the region—the need for ongoing restoration was apparent. The bridge, while still majestic, showed its age, underscoring the importance of the repair efforts currently underway and set to finish by 2028. The crossing remains an emotional moment for runners, a rite of passage that links generations of participants.
The day was not without its logistical challenges. Metro services, always stretched to capacity on Great North Run day, experienced delays of up to 25 minutes, particularly on the Yellow Line from Monkseaton to St James. Chichester station was closed from 1 pm to the early evening for crowd control, while trained first aiders were stationed along the route and at Metro stops to assist anyone in need. Heavy rain at the finish line in South Shields provided a cool-down for weary runners but also contributed to travel delays as people rushed for shelter.
Adding to the day’s drama, a government Emergency Alert system test at 3 pm sent sirens blaring across mobile phones, causing confusion among runners and spectators alike. Yet, nothing could dampen the jubilant mood—not even the brief interruption of BBC One’s live coverage, which was quickly restored. For those wanting to relive the highlights, a special programme was scheduled on BBC Two from 6:30 pm, ensuring the day’s memories would linger long after the crowds had dispersed.
No Great North Run would be complete without the dazzling aerial display by the Red Arrows. This year, the pilots wowed the crowds at South Shields with their signature heart-shaped smoke trail and a riot of red, white, and blue streaks across the sky, celebrating every runner’s achievement and the enduring spirit of the event.
As medals were handed out and personal bests celebrated, the announcement of next year’s race date—Sunday, September 13, 2026—ensured that the tradition would continue. Whether inspired by elite performances, heartwarming stories of charity, or simply the joy of running with thousands, many will be back for another go.
With every stride, the Great North Run 2025 reaffirmed its place as a highlight of the sporting calendar and a cherished North East institution. As the rain cleared and the last runners crossed the finish line, it was clear: this was more than a race—it was a festival of resilience, unity, and hope.
