The Great North Run is a half marathon that takes place annually in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. It was first held in 1981, and has since become one of the largest and most iconic running events in the world. The race attracts tens of thousands of runners every year, and is known for its scenic route, lively atmosphere, and challenging terrain. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Great North Run, including how to get a place, when it’s happening in 2023, how to prepare for the race, and what you can expect on the day.
How to Get a Place in the Great North Run
The Great North Run is a hugely popular event, and getting a place can be difficult. There are several ways to secure a spot in the race, including:
- Ballot: The most common way to get a place in the Great North Run is through the ballot system. This is a lottery-style system where runners apply for a place, and the lucky winners are selected at random. The ballot for the 2023 Great North Run is expected to open in January, with results announced in February or March.
- Charities: Many charities have guaranteed places in the Great North Run, which they offer to runners who pledge to raise a certain amount of money for their cause. This is a great way to secure a spot in the race while also supporting a good cause.
- Corporate entries: Some companies have guaranteed entries to the Great North Run, which they offer to employees or clients. If you work for a company that sponsors the race, it’s worth checking if they have any places available.
- Overseas tour operators: If you’re traveling from outside the UK to take part in the Great North Run, there are several overseas tour operators that offer packages that include guaranteed entry to the race, as well as accommodation and other perks.
When is the Great North Run Happening in 2023?
The 2023 Great North Run is set to take place on Sunday, September 10th. This is the usual date for the race, which takes place on the second Sunday in September every year. The race starts at 10:40am, and runners are encouraged to arrive at the start line at least an hour before the race begins.
How to Prepare for the Great North Run
Preparing for a half marathon is no small feat, and it’s important to start training well in advance of the race. Here are some tips to help you get ready for the Great North Run:
- Start with a training plan: Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a beginner, it’s important to have a training plan that gradually builds up your distance and endurance. There are many training plans available online, but it’s important to choose one that suits your fitness level and goals.
- Invest in good running shoes: Running shoes are one of the most important pieces of equipment for any runner, and it’s worth investing in a good pair that fit well and provide plenty of support. Make sure you break in your new shoes well in advance of the race.
- Practice your nutrition and hydration: Running a half marathon requires a lot of energy, so it’s important to practice your nutrition and hydration during training. Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet that provides plenty of fuel for your runs, and practice drinking enough water and electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated.
- Get plenty of rest: Rest and recovery are just as important as training when it comes to preparing for a race. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and taking rest days as needed to prevent injury and allow your body to recover.
The Race Route
The Great North Run starts in Newcastle city center, and follows a scenic route through the city and along the coast. The race is a half marathon, which means it’s 13.1 miles long. Here’s a breakdown of the race route:
- Start: The race starts on Claremont Road in Newcastle city center. This is a wide road that can accommodate the large crowds of runners who take part in the race.
- Mile 1: The first mile takes runners down a steep hill on the A167. This can be a challenging start to the race, so it’s important to pace yourself and not go out too fast.
- Miles 2-3: These miles take runners through the residential area of Gateshead, before reaching the Tyne Bridge. The Tyne Bridge is an iconic landmark of Newcastle, and provides stunning views of the river and the city.
- Miles 4-5: After crossing the Tyne Bridge, runners continue along the A167 and through the town of South Shields. This section of the race is relatively flat, and is a good opportunity to pick up the pace.
- Miles 6-8: These miles take runners along the coast, with stunning views of the North Sea. This section of the race can be quite exposed to the wind, so it’s important to be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Mile 9: This is a challenging mile that takes runners up a steep hill on Prince Edward Road. It’s important to conserve your energy and take it slow on this hill.
- Miles 10-12: After the hill, runners continue along the coast and through the town of South Shields. This section of the race is relatively flat, and is a good opportunity to pick up the pace again.
- Finish: The finish line is located on the seafront in South Shields. This is a wide open area that can accommodate the large crowds of runners and spectators who finish the race.
The Start and Finish Areas
The start and finish areas of the Great North Run are both well-organized and easy to navigate. Here’s what you can expect at each:
Start Area:
The start area of the Great North Run is located on Claremont Road in Newcastle city center. It’s important to arrive at the start area at least an hour before the race starts, to allow time for bag drop, warm up, and to find your starting pen.
The start area is divided into color-coded starting pens, based on the estimated finish time of each runner. Make sure you know which starting pen you’re in, as this will determine where you start the race.
There are also plenty of toilets, water stations, and medical facilities in the start area, as well as food and drink vendors.
Finish Area:
The finish area of the Great North Run is located on the seafront in South Shields. Once you cross the finish line, you’ll be directed to the finishing area, where you can collect your medal, t-shirt, and goody bag.
There are also plenty of toilets, water stations, and medical facilities in the finishing area, as well as food and drink vendors. You’ll also be able to reunite with your friends and family in the finishing area, so make sure
As a running event that attracts tens of thousands of participants and spectators, finding suitable accommodation for the Great North Run can be a challenge. That’s where Luke Stays comes in – they are your preferred partner for Great North Run accommodation because they provide a range of high-quality, affordable accommodation options that are ideally located for the race.
Luke Stays Serviced Apartments Around The Great North Run
Luke Stays offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly shared rooms to luxury apartments. All of their properties are located within easy reach of the race start and finish areas, making them the perfect base for your Great North Run experience. Whether you’re travelling alone or with a group, Luke Stays has a range of options to suit your needs.
Benefits with Luke Stays
One of the key benefits of booking with Luke Stays is their commitment to providing a high level of customer service. Their team is always on hand to answer any questions you may have about your accommodation, and they are happy to offer advice on the best places to eat, drink, and explore in Newcastle. They also offer flexible booking options, so you can choose the accommodation that suits your needs and budget.
Another benefit of booking with Luke Stays is the range of amenities that are included with your accommodation. All of their properties come equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, and access to communal areas such as kitchens and living rooms. This means you can relax and unwind after the race, without worrying about additional costs or inconvenience.
Finally, booking with Luke Stays gives you peace of mind knowing that you are staying with a reputable and trusted provider. They have a proven track record of providing high-quality accommodation for the Great North Run, and they have received excellent reviews from previous guests.
In summary, booking your Great North Run accommodation with Luke Stays is a smart choice because they offer a range of affordable, high-quality options that are ideally located for the race. They also provide excellent customer service, flexible booking options, and a range of amenities to ensure your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.