A record breaking 13,000 runners took to the streets of Newcastle on Sunday (5 July) for the biggest ever AJ Bell Great North 10K, cementing its place as the North East’s largest and fastest growing 10K event.
Thousands of runners of all ages and abilities crossed the start line on Great North Road before following a refreshed city-centre route through the heart of Newcastle. The 2026 course took participants through Newcastle University campus, along Northumberland Street, past the Great North Museum, Grey’s Monument, Old Eldon Square, across the iconic Tyne Bridge, before returning to a spectacular finish on Great North Road and celebrations in the Event Village on the Town Moor.
With participation increasing from 5,800 just two years ago, to 10,000 in 2025 and now 13,000 runners in 2026, the event continues to go from strength to strength as one of the UK’s most popular city centre 10Ks.
The day began with British sports broadcaster Pete Graves, ambassador for the Newcastle United Foundation, officially starting the event before runners set off in waves through packed city streets lined with thousands of spectators. Live music zones, entertainment, charity cheer points and interactive activations created an electric atmosphere from start to finish.
A highlight of the morning was the Newcastle United Foundation Black & White Wave, where hundreds of runners wearing distinctive black and white race numbers came together to raise vital funds for the Foundation’s education, employability, sport and wellbeing programmes across the North East. The unique fundraising wave formed part of the event’s fifth consecutive year of partnership with Newcastle United Foundation, helping to raise important funds and awareness for the charity.
The AJ Bell Great North 10K continues to celebrate the diversity of the North East, welcoming runners from every background, age and ability. Whether chasing a personal best, completing a first ever 10K, fundraising for charity or simply enjoying the experience, thousands of participants shared the streets of Newcastle in a celebration of community, achievement and inclusivity.
Sir Brendan Foster, Founder & President of the Great Run Company, said; ‘What an incredible day for Newcastle and for everyone who took part. Seeing a record 13,000 runners crossing the start line shows just how passionate people are about running in the North East. It’s a real community event that brings people together.
‘The atmosphere throughout the city has been outstanding. From the volunteers and spectators to the charities, entertainers and partners who make the event possible, it’s been a fantastic celebration of everything that makes this region so special.’
AJ Bell Great North 10K Results
Top 3 Female
- Kate Maltby in a time of 00:34:39
- Christa Cain in a time of 00:35:01
- Zoe Oldfield in a time of 00:37:56
Top 3 Male
- Joseph Wilson in a time of 00:31:16
- Anthony Sayers in a time of 00:31:34
- Conrad in a time of 00:32:08
The AJ Bell Great North 10K has kicked off the start of an exciting summer of running ahead in the North East, with many participants using today’s event as a stepping stone towards the AJ Bell Great North Run on Sunday 13th September.
Those inspired by today’s event won’t have long to wait to secure their place next year. Entries for the 2027 AJ Bell Great North 10K, taking place on Sunday 4 July 2027, are now open at a special Super Earlybird price for a limited time.
