Every year the AJ Bell Great North Run is a bucket list event for runners across the globe – will you be one of the 60,000 people running the iconic 13.1 course from Newcastle to South Shields on Sunday 13 September?
This is your chance as the January ballot for this year’s AJ Bell Great North Run is now open, but be quick, the ballot closes this Sunday 11 January at midnight. The ballot will be drawn shortly after closing with all applicants receiving an email to confirm whether they have been successful.
This year’s staging of the world’s biggest half marathon is set to be even more special as the event celebrates its 45th year. As part of the festivities to mark this milestone, organisers of the AJ Bell Great North Run have just announced an exciting collaboration with Newcastle’s very own street artist, Mul, to create a unique identity for the 2026 event with his iconic Running Heart character integral to the event finisher t-shirt and medal.
The January ballot presents eager participants with an opportunity to secure a much sought-after entry. But you have to be quick to enter, the January ballot is only open for 7 days. For your chance to be on that iconic start line – sign up now at greatrun.org/north.
Paul Foster, Chief Executive of the Great Run Company said, “The countdown has started to the 45th Great North Run. Every year the whole of the North East gets behind and celebrates the event to create a truly special occasion and 2026 will be no exception.
The Great North Run is one of the great destination running events with thousands of runners travelling to the North East from across the UK and indeed the world each year. It has firmly cemented its position as one of the must do events in the running calendar.
The January Ballot is one of the final chances to secure a place for 2026 and experience the incredible atmosphere and roaring crowd support for yourself. I encourage anyone who is eager to join us to enter now. Best of luck to you all!
With 60,000 entrants taking part annually, the Great North Run continues to be the biggest half marathon in the world, with many taking part to support good causes raising an estimated £25 million for charity each year.
The 2026 AJ Bell Great North Run will once again be broadcast live on BBC One and in over 170 territories around the world, showcasing the best of the North East nationally and internationally.
Find out more or sign up for the January Ballot at greatrun.org/north.
