Great North Run 2024: How to enter this year's huge half marathon

It wasn't long ago that 60,000 runners from across the world took over the North East and made the fitness pilgrimage from Newcastle to South Shields.

If last year's participants have inspired you, or a New Year's fitness-based resolution has seen you kick start a running pastime, this is how you can be part of the huge day.

How can I enter the 2024 Great North Run?

There are two key ways you can enter the event this year, this is through the ballot and through charity places.

When does the Great North Run ballot open?

The ballot is the most time effective way to get into the race, but it is also the most difficult. With far more people wanting to run the event than there are places available, some people will be left It wasn't long ago that 60,000 runners from across the world took over the North East and made the fitness pilgrimage from Newcastle to South Shields.

If last year's participants have inspired you, or a New Year's fitness-based resolution has seen you kick start a running pastime, this is how you can be part of the huge day.

How can I enter the 2024 Great North Run?

There are two key ways you can enter the event this year, this is through the ballot and through charity places.

When does the Great North Run ballot open?

The ballot is the most time effective way to get into the race, but it is also the most difficult. With far more people wanting to run the event than there are places available, some people will be left dissapointed.

However, the ballot can still be a great way to find your way into the day. The race organisers have confirmed it will open later in January 2024, so keep an eye out for your chance to get an elusive place!

What about Great North Run charity places?

Each year a select number of places in the half marathon are given to partnered charities to raise funds. These places can be picked up by anyone, but can only be applied for directly through the charities themselves.

A quick online search can show a huge number of organisations with places who are looking for people to fundraise on their behalf. Although this will mean a guarenteed place as opposed to the potential stress of the ballot, all charities will have a fundraising target you must meet before lining up in the start pens in September.

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Can I still get a Great North Run membership?

A very small number of Great North Run memberships are available every year, allowing members to skip the ballot for three years. These usually sell out in October after the previous month's race, and that was the case again for 2023, meaning no more memberships are available for the 2024 edition of the race.

When is the 2024 Great North Run?

This year's event will take place on Sunday, September 8.