News / Great Bristol Run
Thousands of runners to take part in Great Bristol Run 2024
Tens of thousands of runners are set to take to the streets for the Great Bristol Run.
The sold-out event will once again see people completing a half marathon or 10K route through the city, both of which take in the harbourside, Queen Square and Castle Park – and less of the cobbles on Welsh Back following feedback from last year.
The run takes place on Sunday, May 19 and will also see the return of the fourth annual visually impaired runners 10K challenge, the first dedicated race in the UK for blind and partially sighted runners.
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There will also be a one-mile family run for runners from the age of three and above, which is run in partnership with Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal, Bristol Children’s Hospital charity.
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Phil Hardwell, 36, is one of the people taking part in the half marathon section of the Great Bristol Run – his second half marathon since receiving a heart transplant. He hopes that by running, he will inspire others and raise awareness of organ donation.
“When I first had my transplant, running at this level isn’t something I’d have thought about, but when reading about other heart transplants, I was inspired to see some people in America who had gone on to do iron man competitions,” says Phil, who was born in Bristol and now lives in Yate.
“I describe running after a heart transplant as running in third gear and it takes some getting used to, but I enjoy it and feel really blessed that I’m taking part in events like this.
“The power of running for me is the enjoyment of keeping physically fit after receiving my new heart and the mental health benefits that running brings by giving me space away from day-to-day life. I also hope that by running long distances, I can inspire others and raise awareness of organ donation.”
Phil Hardwell, 36, is one of the people taking part in the half marathon section of the Great Bristol Run – his second half marathon since receiving a heart transplant
There will be rolling road closures in place while the Great Bristol Run is taking place.
Speaking ahead of the event, Paul Foster, chief executive of The Great Run Company, said: “The Great Bristol Run is well known for its welcoming, high-energy atmosphere and a fantastic route that takes in some of the city’s most impressive landmarks.
“We know runners from near and far look forward to taking part every year and we’re excited to welcome everyone on the start line on 19 May. The city’s streets will be full of runners of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, plus the wonderful supporters who cheer them on throughout the route. We can’t wait to see everyone there.”
Tens of thousands of runners are set to take to the streets for the Great Bristol Run
All photos: Great Bristol Run
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