Youngsters kick off Great Scottish Run in Glasgow

Around 1250 runners aged three to 15 and their families participated in the sold-out AJ Bell Junior and Mini Great Scottish Run events on Saturday, October 5. 

Children aged three to eight ran a fun and energetic 1.2km whilst juniors aged between nine and 15 completed an impressive 2.5km.

Meanwhile, the youngest runners took part in a 70-metre Toddler Dash.

Youngsters and their families took part in the events (Image: Gordon Terris) Some participants dressed up as superhero characters (Image: Gordon Terris)

Paul Foster, chief executive at The Great Run Company, praised runners for their efforts.

He said: “The AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Scottish Run proves that you are never too young to get into running.

“The running stars of the future put on a brilliant display today, powering through the streets, many representing their running clubs from around Scotland.  

 “It’s always a joy to see so many families join the fun each year in Glasgow, and the popularity is growing – this year’s event was a sell-out and we look forward to welcoming everyone back again next year.” 

(Image: Gordon Terris) (Image: Gordon Terris) (Image: Gordon Terris)

From the starting line at George Square, participants took off wearing club kits and a range of superhero-themed costumes.

They were joined by Spiderman, Batman, Superwoman characters and of course, Tyney, the Great Run mascot, as they got on their way.

(Image: Gordon Terris) (Image: Gordon Terris)

Runners also had the support of BBC’s Gladiators, Apollo and Sabre as well as Chris Thompson, two-time Great Scottish Run champion.

Sabre, star of the hit BBC show, said: “It’s such an honour to be here and to see so many children and parents taking part in the AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Scottish Run, and for me, it’s particularly special having this opportunity in Scotland to help promote activity and fitness. 

“Glasgow is a beautiful and iconic city, and I’ve loved visiting today.” 

(Image: Gordon Terris) (Image: Gordon Terris) (Image: Gordon Terris)

After an incredible effort, all participants received a well-earned medal.

Many represented running clubs on the day and Giffnock North AC, Aberdeen Athletics and Airdrie Harriers came out on top as the winning clubs with impressive finish times.

The events marked the exciting ‘Super Saturday’ and kicked off a weekend of running in the city with the Great Scottish Run taking place on Sunday, October 6.

To end the day of festivities, an action-packed mascot race was held which gives local charities and sports teams the opportunity to get involved in the competitive spirit and add to the entertainment on offer to attendees and runners.

(Image: Gordon Terris) (Image: Gordon Terris)

(Image: Gordon Terris)

Buddy the Star, from the ‘Brightest Star’ charity, took first place in the mascot dash.

The Junior and Mini Great Scottish Run events will return to Glasgow next year and entries are now open.

For further information visit HERE.