14,000 runners countdown to Midlands’ biggest 10k and half marathon

More than 14,000 excited runners from across the Midlands are counting down to a sold-out AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run on Sunday, 5 May.

From Broad Street to St Paul’s Square, the city will come alive with the Brummie buzz of the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run this Sunday as the Midlands’ premier running event returns with a course that celebrates the best of the city.

Runners taking on both the 10k and half marathon can look forward to inspiring sights and incredible support all along the routes with more than 25,000 spectators expected to line the route for fist-bumps, high-fives and the occasional jelly baby sweet.

Runners will enjoy a live radio music truck with Heart FM DJs playing an inspirational set to help motivate them for the challenge ahead.

The AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run Business Challenge will see workplace teams compete for fastest time trophies and bragging rights among corporate competitors.

Among the teams taking part will be Solihull School – back on the start line to defend their 2023 winners’ title.

However, the Great Birmingham Run isn’t just for the grown-ups and work colleagues as more children than ever will be taking part in the AJ Bell Junior and Mini Great Birmingham Run.

Hundreds of energetic youngsters will tackle a daring 1.5km dash for Minis, while Juniors aged 9-15 tackle a 2.5km supercharged sprint through the city centre.

This year’s Bank Holiday Weekend event will feature a Race within a Race as England take on Wales with over 200 runners running the 10k as part of the International Age Group Masters Match – representing either England or Wales.

These runners have had to qualify to be part of this international match across five qualifying events, including the 2023 AJ Bell Great Bristol Run and Great Manchester Run.

Local and national charities will benefit with hundreds of thousands of pounds raised for causes close to runners’ hearts.

Among these will be Cancer Research UK, University Hospitals Birmingham Charity, Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, St Giles Hospice and the British Heart Foundation, plus dozens of other charities with special meaning to those taking part.

Paul Foster, chief executive of The Great Run Company, said: “Last year’s AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run looked wonderful with the city’s iconic buildings such as the Library of Birmingham and Symphony Hall as a backdrop and we’re so excited to be returning to the same spot for more of the same on Sunday.

“Whether the thousands of people who have signed up will be taking part for a personal best run, to raise funds for charity, or just to see their city from a different perspective, we wish you the very best of luck and hope you enjoy the unique atmosphere of a Great Run event. See you at the Smithfield finish line!”