Great North Run will return to South Shields as 2022 ballot opens

The ballot for the 2022 Great North Run has opened this morning as the UK’s favourite half marathon is gearing up for its long-awaited return to South Shields.

The route was changed in 2021 due to Covid so the seaside aspect course was sorely missed by participants. It was also a blow for businesses in the area who say they get a big boost when the televised race passes through the town.

Founder of the Great North Run Sir Brendan Foster promised last year that the race would return to South Shields "as soon as it was safe to do so."

Earlier this morning the ballot for 2022 places opened. Organisers are keen to ensure that the hald marathon will return to its original end point on Sunday, September 11, 2022.

Around 57,000 runners usually take part in the race, we're yet to find out if that number will be reduced again due to Covid 19.

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• Great North Run
• ballot
• South Shields