Several changes were introduced by The Great Run Company, organisers of the 2026 AJ Bell Great Bristol Run, on Sunday, 10th May. A record entry saw around 25,000 runners take on the iconic Bristol course, with spectacular views of Clifton Suspension Bridge.

The sold-out event started earlier, with the half-marathon at 08:30am followed by the 10K, to avoid the anticipated warmer conditions later in the day. Separate start and finish areas gave runners and their supporters more space, additional hydration was available, and there were some improvements to the route through the city centre.

Paul Foster, Chief Executive of The Great Run Company, said: "Bristol was absolutely buzzing with runners from across the South West and beyond, all with their own unique reason for running, and many helping to raise over £1 million for charity, which is simply brilliant.

"As well as our fantastic runners, I’d like to thank everyone who’s been a part of this major celebration of running, including all our volunteers and supporters. The crowds were louder than ever this year, with so many people coming out to cheer on the runners."

The Bristol atmosphere spurred the runners on, and both races were highly competitive. The closest finish was seen in the men's 10K, with the top three covered by two seconds. Greg Hayward (Westbury Harriers, 30:55) edged a narrow victory from James Reeder (Team Bath AC, 30:57) and Dylan Rigby (Bristol & West AC, 30:57).

Sian Duval (Royal Sutton Coldfield AC, 36:50) took the women’s 10K title from Helen Repesse (Bristol & West AC, 37:26) and Katie Hughes (Westbury Harriers, 38:00).

In the flagship half-marathon race, Jack Millar (Bristol & West AC, 1:07:02) moved ahead in the latter stages to finish 22 seconds clear of his clubmate Jamie Williamson (1:07:24). Alex Carter (Team Bath AC, 1:09:01) completed the men's podium.

Star HYROX athlete, Keely O’Reilly, won the women’s half-marathon in 1:22:30, holding off Megan Brewer (Bristol & West AC, 1:23:32) and Charlotte Reading (Chichester Runners, 1:24:20).
 
Super Early Bird entries are open now for the next AJ Bell Great Bristol Run on Sunday, 9th May 2027. Super Early Bird entries, saving £10, will close on Monday, 18th May, and are available from the official Great Bristol Run website here...

Results and previous reports are at the runABC South race listing here.

Photo of Solgar Vitamin and Herb Pacers courtesy of Great Bristol Run on Facebook