60,000 people are training for the Great North Run in Newcastle today (September 10), including several well-known individuals.
The race, which is the largest half marathon in the world, will attract TV celebrities and comedians as participants.
Elite athletes, including four-time Olympic gold medalist Mo Farah, will compete in addition to celebrities and public runners. It will be his final competitive race ever.
Actresses Laura Norton and Isabel Hodgins from television will make an appearance. The Emmerdale actors, Kerry Wyatt and Victoria Barton, who play those characters on the venerable ITV soap, are aiding CureUSHER.
The two will promote knowledge of and funds for Usher syndrome, a hereditary disorder that results in eyesight and hearing loss. Laura, a resident of Newcastle, is a patron of the organization, and both of her kids have the condition.
BGT champion Lee Ridley will also compete in the legendary race. Due to his cerebral palsy, the comic, also known as Lost Voice Guy, has difficulty speaking and moving. However, four of his friends—Lee, Ollie, Hannah, and Paul, to mention a few—have offered to push him in his wheelchair. The group will participate in a charity race for Smile for Life, an organization that supports young people with impairments and learning challenges.
I’m eager to participate in my first Great North Run, Lee stated.
“I see it on television every year, and the atmosphere looks incredible, so I can’t wait to go myself. Every Geordie, in my opinion, must go through it at some point in their lives.
Star of Strictly running for the NHS
Additionally, Sara Davies, a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing, will collect money for the Country Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust Charity. The businesswoman from Dragons’ Den claims that she ‘believes profoundly’ in the organization of her choice.
I firmly believe in the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust’s efforts, so I’m looking forward to participating in a northern institution like the Great North Run, said Sara.
“Even though I really enjoy running in my free time, this is more than just a personal challenge for me; it’s a great way to spread the word about the essential services they offer and to honor the tireless efforts of their staff for our community.”
OJ Borth from BBC Radio, Chris Oliver from SAS Who Dares Wins, Kevin Phillips from football, and Rendall Munroe, an ex-boxer, are among those who will run the 13.2 mile course.