Date: Sunday, 7 September 2025
Distance: Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne to South Shields, UK
Participants: Approx. 60,000 runners
The Great North Run 2025 once again delivered a thrilling and emotional spectacle, blending elite athleticism with a mass-participation celebration of running at its finest. From the iconic Tyne Bridge start to the uplifting sea views in South Shields, this year’s edition maintained the legendary status of the world’s largest half marathon.
Elite Race Recap
The front of the field offered a gripping contest across all categories:
- Men’s Winner: Alex Mutiso (Kenya) — 1:00:52
- Women’s Winner: Sheila Chepkirui — 1:09:32
- Eilish McColgan made a welcome return to the podium, finishing 3rd in 1:09:42, a strong performance as she ramps up toward the winter season.
- In the wheelchair events, Sean Frame (49:24) and Mel Nicholls (1:05:24) claimed well-earned victories, continuing to raise the profile and competitiveness of the para fields.
The race showcased not only impressive international talent but also a deep field of UK athletes, many using the event as a key benchmark heading into autumn races.
Course & Atmosphere
Few courses match the Great North Run in terms of crowd support and emotional resonance. The route’s most iconic moment, crossing the Tyne Bridge under the soaring Red Arrows, remains one of the most inspiring sights in distance running.
The rest of the 13.1-mile point-to-point route winds through Gateshead and South Tyneside, with only moderate elevation gain but several long inclines, especially in the final few miles. While the course isn’t known for being particularly fast, the relentless support more than makes up for the physical challenge.
As always, the atmosphere was exceptional. Spectators turned out in full force, estimated at over 200,000, offering enthusiastic support, music, refreshments, and countless hand-made signs. Live bands and charity cheer zones added to the celebratory feel, creating a festival-like environment from start to finish.
The final stretch along the South Shields coastline is emotional and energising in equal measure, the roar from the crowd as runners approach the finish is enough to lift even the most tired legs.
Finisher Medal & Experience
This year’s finisher medal, designed by local artist Howard Lee, featured the Tyne Bridge and lines from George Caulkin’s poem “We Are the Great North Run.” It was widely praised as one of the best in the event’s history, both artistically striking and rich in regional pride.
Paired with a high-quality technical tee and finisher pack, the post-race experience felt like a proper celebration of effort, resilience, and community.
Overall Impression
The Great North Run 2025 lived up to its billing as one of the greatest mass-participation running events in the world. From elite drama to first-time finishers running for charity, the race delivered a weekend full of unforgettable moments.
With its unbeatable atmosphere, iconic route, and legacy appeal, it remains a bucket list race for runners of all levels, and 2025 only reinforced that status.
Final Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
A truly world-class event that celebrates everything good about running: community, challenge, and inspiration.
