Great Scottish Run returns to Glasgow for first time in three years due to Covid-19

More than 25,000 people are set to participate in the event this weekend, with runners of all ages and abilities welcomed to take part in a series of events from today to Sunday, October 2. 

The Junior and Mini Great Scottish Run and Toddler Dash, which caters for budding runners up to 15 years old, will take place tomorrow in George Square and includes the ever-popular mascot race featuring some of the city's best-loved mascots in a competitive 100m dash. 

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Great Scottish Run (Image: Great Scottish Run)

On Sunday, thousands will come together on the start line of the Great Scottish Run to take on their own 10k or Half Marathon Challenge for the first time since 2019. 

Starting in the heart of Glasgow, runners will be able to enjoy the atmosphere, music and legendary Glaswegian support all the way to the finish line in Glasgow Green with entertainment zones located every kilometre. 

Great Scottish Run (Image: Great Scottish Run)

Paul Foster, chief executive of the Great Run Company, said: "We’re really happy to be back in Glasgow after three years of cancellations due to the pandemic. 

"Whether runners are looking forward to being part of a big event after so long away, are pushing for a new PB or they’re raising much-needed funds for charities, we hope they have an incredible day.

"The event is a true celebration of what makes Glasgow such a great place to live and visit and we’re sure the city will put on an unforgettable show of community pride, determination and support."

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A competitive elite race featuring some of Scotland's most talented runners will set off ahead of the masses. 

Eilish McColgan will be competing in Scotland for the first time in the women's 10k race after an extraordinary year.

The 31-year-old Scot set a new British record over 5km on the roads and beat Paula Radcliffe's 21-year-old British Half Marathon record.

She took the longstanding European and UK 10km record at the Great Manchester Run and won Commonwealth Gold and Silver for Team Scotland in Birmingham.

Eilish McColgan (Image: Great Scottish Run)

In the Men's Half Marathon race, Callum Hawkins will be racing on home soil against his brother Derek and also Adam Craig of Inverclyde. 

Callum said: "I'm delighted to be back at the Great Scottish Run Half Marathon this weekend. 

"Glasgow is my home and it will be great to be back on the familiar streets once again."

Great Scottish Run (Image: Great Scottish Run)

Glasgow Lord Provost Jacqueline McLaren said: "The return of the Great Scottish Run, the biggest running event in Scotland and a highlight of Glasgow’s sporting calendar, will be a fantastic experience for everyone running, for the people who go along to support them, and a brilliant showcase for the city.

"Glasgow has earned an international reputation for being an outstanding destination for sports events and a superb host city.

"It also has a strong track record of encouraging active participation in sports.

"The Great Scottish Run really is a perfect example of all of that; inspiring and encouraging people of all ages to get involved and to keep running.

"I wish every success to the many, many thousands of runners competing this weekend.

"I’m sure that, as they follow the race routes through our city’s streets and past so many famous Glasgow landmarks, they will be spurred on by the customary warm enthusiasm of the crowds of cheering spectators.

"The Great Scottish Run is always a truly memorable, fun event so I’d urge people not to miss the opportunity to come along to enjoy it and support all those taking part."

You can find out more about the Great Scottish Run HERE.