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Mo Farah Great North Run 2017

Mo Farah faces stiff competition at Great North Run 2018

It looks like Mo Farah won’t get everything his own way at the Great North Run with both Jake Robertson and Daniel Wanjiru confirmed for the elite competition. This trio is part of a 57,000 strong entry who are preparing for the world’s largest half marathon on Sunday (9 September).

2017 saw Farah tough it out with Robertson, with the British runner having to rely on his trademark kick to secure victory. The pair stayed close until the final 400m before the British runner pulled away to cross the line in 60:06 – just six seconds ahead of Robertson.

As he sets his sights on a record fifth consecutive win, Farah will be required to fight off the attentions of both Robertson and Daniel Wanjiru, the 2017 London Marathon champion, plus Stanley Biwott. The other British runners expected to run prominently are Jonny Mellor and Andy Vernon.

Just as Farah aims to strengthen his hold over the competition, Vivian Cheruiyot is pursuing her second victory at the race in three years. Joyciline Jepkosgei, the world record holder over the half marathon distance, is, on paper, her main rival, although Betsy Saina, fifth in last year’s race, could pose a challenge. Lily Partridge, Gemma Steel, Charlotte Purdue and Aly Dixon are also in the line-up.

Sunday’s Great North Run will be the highlight of a spectacular weekend in the North East. Starting in Newcastle, the half marathon course takes in the iconic Tyne Bridge, goes through Gateshead passing the famous international athletics stadium and finishes in the coastal town of South Shields.

Coverage of Sunday’s event begins at 9:30am on BBC One.

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