The sun is shining on the thousands of people participating in this year’s Great Birmingham Run.
Over 14,000 individuals have registered for the 2024 event, which commenced at 9:30 am today (May 5).
While many in Birmingham were focused on the weekend’s nail-biting election; Conservative Andy Street lost his bid for a third term since his initial election in 2017, with Labour’s Richard Parker emerging as the new West Midlands Mayor.
The run is a significant event in the city’s calendar, and it was a fantastic day with the sun illuminating the runners who worked tirelessly to achieve their goals.
Officials warned runners at the starting line to stay hydrated in the heat.
The AJ Bell event featured two routes: a 10k run alongside the longer half marathon. Participants, including both runners and walkers, took part to raise funds for their chosen charities or simply to stay fit.
Since 2017, the Great Birmingham Run has raised over £10 million for good causes, and this year, charities will once again benefit from the efforts of thousands running for various charitable organisations.
Along the course, charity cheering buses represented organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society, Birmingham Hospice, Cancer Research UK, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Macmillan Cancer Support, thanking the runners for their fundraising exploits and keeping their spirits high.
Participants start in Centenary Square, then weave their way through the city, passing various landmarks. The event also included the Junior Run and Mini Birmingham Run, where more than 500 children sprinted across Birmingham city centre.
Additionally, companies of all sizes competed for bragging rights and fastest-time trophies in the Business Challenge.
As runners make their way from Centenary Square, they pass landmarks such as the Library of Birmingham, Grand Central, and the Mailbox, eventually reaching the heart of the Jewellery Quarter before crossing the finish line at Smithfield.
The Great Run Company hosted a celebration at the Smithfield finish, and participants can access their results via the Great Run website once they’ve completed the race.
All images from Darren Quinton/Touchstone Visuals
1. Ready to bring the action, Daniel and Simon are dressed up as Super Bros. Mario and Luigi
Photo: Photo by Darren Quinton/Touchstone Visuals
2. (L-R) Christi, Tracy and Emma ready to speed through the Great Birmingham Run race
Photo: Photo by Darren Quinton/Touchstone Visuals
3. On the start line, with the determination in their eyes, and ready to bring the power in their strides
4. Running shoes pounding the pavement as the race begins