Newcastle United announce special partnership with Great North Run company as iconic 10k given revamp

The Newcastle United Foundation has announced a special partnership with the company behind the Great North Run for 2023.

The Great Run company also put on the popular Great North 10k race, which is being given a brand new route for this year with the goal of taking in the city centre's most iconic sites.

Now called the AJ Bell Great North 10k, the new look event was launched today at the Newcastle United Foundation home of NUCASTLE.

The revamped route will see runners lining up on the famous Great North Run Central Motorway start line for the very first time. Once the starter’s gun goes, they will follow the first part of the iconic course across the Tyne Bridge, before looping back across the bridge in the opposite direction and heading into the city centre.

Once there, they will pass Grey’s Monument, Old Eldon Square and the Civic Centre before crossing the finish line on the Town Moor.

Paul Foster, Chief Executive of the Great Run Company said, “We’re delighted to be able to offer this brand-new running experience, straight through the heart of our vibrant city centre. We’re excited to be able to offer even more runners the opportunity to run over the famous Tyne Bridge, while also seeing the sights of the city from a whole new perspective.

“We know from our experience in other locations, how special it is to run on closed roads, past city centre landmarks and we’re sure the spectator support will reflect Newcastle’s reputation as a warm and welcoming city.”

Runners who choose to fundraise for Newcastle United Foundation will be issued with a special black and white striped run number in the clubs’ colours - an element sure to attract passionate football fans to the event.

The Foundation is focused on improving the lives of thousands of local children, teenagers, adults, families and the older generations, and like Great Run, they are committed to helping people across the North East be more active and feel happier and healthier, through sport.

Steve Beharall, Chief Executive of Newcastle United Foundation, said: “We are honoured to be an official partner of the AJ Bell Great North 10k and to be at the beginning of a new era for this fantastic event and its runners.

“Our community work gives us a deep understanding of the North East, its people and their passion for the region. Incorporating so many iconic landmarks into this new course will provide an unforgettable running experience for those taking part and fundraising.

“At Newcastle United Foundation, we are proud to align our commitment to providing life-changing opportunities for all alongside the Great Run Company and the AJ Bell Great North 10k. We look forward to seeing the North East community coming together for this amazing event.”

Runners and spectators alike will also be able to enjoy a new look Après Run village, featuring; charity stalls, retailers, street food vendors and Come and Try It sports games, keeping all the family entertained as they wait for their runners to cross the line.

A 20% early bird discount is available for anyone entering from today, Thursday, January, 5 until 9 am on Monday 9 January.

The ballot for the full Great North Run half marathon will also open on Monday. Full details about both races can be found here.