A record-breaking 13,000 runners filled the streets of Newcastle on Sunday 5 July as the AJ Bell Great North 10K celebrated its biggest event in history.

The sell-out event continued its remarkable growth, increasing from 5,800 participants just two years ago to 10,000 in 2025 before reaching a record 13,000 runners this year. The expanded field reinforced the event's status as the North East's largest and fastest-growing 10K, with runners of every age and ability taking part.

Starting on Great North Road, participants followed a refreshed city centre course that showcased many of Newcastle's best-known landmarks, including Newcastle University, Grey's Monument, Old Eldon Square and the iconic Tyne Bridge before returning to a memorable finish on Great North Road and celebrations in the Town Moor Event Village. Thousands of spectators, live music zones and entertainment created a festival atmosphere throughout the morning.

Community remained at the heart of the event, with hundreds of runners joining the Newcastle United Foundation's Black & White Wave to raise funds for education, employability, sport and wellbeing programmes across the North East. The partnership marked its fifth consecutive year, once again highlighting the event's commitment to supporting local communities alongside delivering a world-class running experience.

Great Run founder and president Sir Brendan Foster praised the event's continued growth, describing it as a celebration of everything that makes the North East special. Volunteers, charities, spectators and partners all played their part in creating another memorable occasion as thousands of runners achieved personal goals, from first-time 10K finishers to experienced club athletes chasing fast times.

The elite races also produced impressive performances. Joseph Wilson claimed the men's title in 31:16 ahead of Anthony Sayers and Conrad, while Kate Maltby won the women's race in 34:39, finishing ahead of Christa Cain and Zoe Oldfield.

Attention now turns towards the AJ Bell Great North Run in September, with many runners using the 10K as an important milestone in their training. Meanwhile, organisers have already opened entries for the 2027 AJ Bell Great North 10K, reflecting the continued demand for one of the UK's most popular city centre races.

Beyond the headline numbers, the event demonstrated how running continues to bring communities together. From seasoned competitors and charity fundraisers to families and first-time participants, the AJ Bell Great North 10K once again showcased the inclusive spirit that has helped fuel its rapid growth and establish it as one of the highlights of the North East sporting calendar.

Image courtesy Great Run Company.