The Great North Run is one of the UK's most popular sporting events. It is the biggest and best-known half-marathon in the world. Around fifty thousand competitors sign up to take part in the Great North Run every September, and run the thirteen miles between Newcastle upon Tyne and South Shields. Around one hundred thousand friends and family members line the roads to watch the race, and cheer the runners on from the sidelines. The first Great North Run was held in 1981, to help raise money for charities and other worthy causes. The race has evolved over the years from a small, low key event to become one of the most popular road running events in the sporting calendar, and the most famous competition of

its kind in the world. A lot of people enjoy running, and men and women of all ages compete in the race to help raise money for their favourite charity. Most ordinary people who enter the race are pleased if they just manage to finish it, but for some athletes the competition is a serious business and they are out to win it! Many well-known celebrities also sign up to take part in the race and raise money for good causes.

Running road races can be exhausting, and amateur runners often find them challenging. Not all runners who enter the race manage to go the full distance and complete it, and there are always some who fall by the wayside. Ambulances are kept on standby in case any runners need any medical attention, and bottled water is provided for competitors to keep them hydrated in various stops along the way. Around two hundred and fifty thousand (a quarter of a million) bottles of water are handed out during the race along, with a thousand or more additional drinks handed out at the start and finish!​