Join Team Blesma for the Great North Run!
About the Great North Run
The AJ Bell Great North Run is the world’s largest and most iconic half marathon, with around 60,000 runners taking on the challenge each year from Newcastle to South Shields. It’s famous for its unbeatable atmosphere, incredible on-route entertainment, and the spectacular tradition of the Red Arrows flying overhead on race day. Thousands of people take part in this half marathon every year — and you could be one of them!
Register Now >>>
The Great North Run Route
The Great North Run starts in Newcastle upon Tyne and finishes in South Shields, covering a 13.1-mile (21.1 km) course. The route passes through iconic local landmarks and cheering crowds, including the start near Town Moor Park, running through Gateshead, passing Souter Lighthouse, and finishing on The Leas in South Shields with sea views. The course is predominantly downhill or flat, making it one of the fastest and most enjoyable half marathons in the UK for runners of all abilities.
Why should I fundraise for Blesma?
Blesma provides a lifetime support for veterans who have suffered life-changing limb loss or the use of a limb, an eye or sight.
Thanks to your help, we can continue support veterans like Matt.
Matt Weston was just 20 when he lost three limbs to a bomb blast in Afghanistan.
"All I remember is a flash, my ears ringing, and the sense of falling. I lost both my legs and my right arm below the elbow in the blast. My rehab has been long, slow and difficult. I was in intensive care for a while and was in hospital for three months, and I've just had my fiftieth operation."
"If my chair breaks and I can't repair it, Blesma will get it done. I was in a bad place after my injury but Blesma have been there for me, by my side from day one."
Registration and Fundraising
There is a registration fee of £30 and a minimum fundraising requirement of £300.
When you sign up you will receive:
- Blesma running vest or t-shirt
- Blesma Pin Badge
- Other Blesma goodies
- Fundraising pack and fundraising support
- Great North Run Medal
- Training support
FAQ
- How difficult is the Great North Run?
The Great North Run route has both uphill and downhill sections. Miles 1-2, 5-8 and 12-13.1 are mainly downhill, whereas many runners report that they find miles 8-12 the toughest section – there’s quite a bit of uphill during this four-mile stretch. But don’t worry – there’s music, entertainment and thousands of supporters at every turn.
- Is there a bag drop available at the Great North Run?
Yes. Baggage buses can be found in your Runners Hub. Please see the event guide for your baggage bus opening times and location (Available one month before the event). Allow plenty of time for dropping off. Make sure you fill out your baggage label (found on your race number), detach and fasten it securely to your bag before you leave home. At the finish, you’ll need to use your race number to collect your bag at South Shields.
- Where can I celebrate after the Great north Run?
The fun doesn’t stop at the finish line. Check out the Great North Run event village and Après Run Zone with its very own beer and entertainment tent, exhibitors, food and drink vendors…the list goes on! There’s also lots of cafés and bars around the local area in South Shields, if you want to soak up the atmosphere before heading home.
We can help
We are dedicated to assisting serving and ex-Service men and women who have suffered life-changing limb loss or the use of a limb, an eye or sight. We support these men and women in their communities throughout the UK. Click the link below to find out the different kinds of support we offer.
Get SupportYou may also be interested in these events...