Runners brave the breeze for the Great Scottish Run
Thousands of runners took on the challenge for charity over the weekend
Last updated 1st Oct 2023
More than 20,000 runners descended on Glasgow over the weekend to take part in the Great Scottish Run.
Offering two distances and two days of events, the races are also one of Scotland’s biggest fundraising opportunities, with thousands of people running in aid of charity.
Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, Blood Cancer UK, and Macmillan were just some of the charities represented.
Alan Dukes was running in aid of Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis, after he lost his dad from the illness.
He said: “It was fantastic, great event, well done by the organisers, and well done to every single person who took part.”
He added: “Thank you very much to every single person who’s donated, it really means a lot and we’ve managed to raise over £3000.
Despite the very breezy conditions, the runners were not deterred as they headed from George Square, passing the OVO Hydro, the Finnieston Crane and Pacific Quay, before finishing in Glasgow Green.
Chief Executive at the Great Run Company, Paul Foster, said: “It’s been a brilliant day here in Glasgow for the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run.
“It’s been incredible to see so many runners out on the streets of the city and so much support for them all across the course.
“A huge well done to everyone taking part and thank you to all our volunteers and partners who helped us deliver a fantastic event today.”
Kilbarchan AAC’s Fraser Gilmour raced into second place in the men’s 10K, with a time of 00:31:44.
He said: “I was hoping for the race to be slightly faster, but because of the weather conditions it became a bit more tactical.
“The first 5K was a bit slow, and then with about 4K to go, the winner and I made a break.
“The atmosphere was lively with lots of support.”
Scotland’s very own Jamie Crowe sped to the victory in the men’s half marathon later in the day, smashing it out in 01:04:50, despite the breeze which meant some mile markers on the Kingston Bridge had to be removed.
Bailie Annette Christie, Chair of Glasgow Life, said: “The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run is a celebration of everything that makes Glasgow great.
“Stunning sights and spaces along the entire route, great entertainment and of course the extra push that comes from the crowd roaring runners on to achieve their own precious milestones.
“I’d like to congratulate everyone who took part in any of the races held this weekend.”