I've had an association with the Great North Run for around 20 years now in one form or another. Initially I got involved with the event by running in memory of my late father. I continued to take part over seven consecutive years raising money for the British Lung Foundation and latterly, the British Red Cross.
More recently my attendance has been to photograph the spectacle - for my former employees The Northern Echo and since becoming self-employed for various charities including the Great North Air Ambulance, Breast Cancer Now, the MS Society and Barnardo's. During those visits I have been positioned at various locations on the course from the iconic Tyne Bridge to the four and eight-mile marks, to the charity village where post-race, runners are given well-deserved massages and a bite to eat.
This year was the wettest I can remember with non-stop rain from the moment the lead runners passed my position to the more pedestrian of competitors several hours later. Tough conditions indeed although arguably better than a hot sunny day.
Through these tough conditions including the duration of the run itself, I'm always in awe of the runners who take on the challenge dressed in anything other than or in addition to the standard t-shirt/vest, shorts and trainers. Catching the eye this year were men with fridges strapped to their backs, a Royal Marines Charity runner carrying a canoe, firefighters dressed in full kit, and a variety of furry animal outfits which must have been soaked in both rain and sweat by the finish line.
I hope that my connection to this iconic race can continue for many more years to come. However from a spectating/photographing point of view, I'll be hoping for brighter conditions next year.
#gnr #greatnorthrun #run #newcastle #gateshead #ajbell #charity #charityrun @greatnorthrun_ @GNR_NE
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