While it has been confirmed that Sunday’s Great South Run event has been cancelled, the ‘Super Saturday’ events were able to take place as 5k runners set about achieving their own personal goals. From runners gunning for victory to those just trying to get to the finish line it was a morning of inspirational scenes.
The runners set off bright and early in Southsea and were were put through their paces in a warm-up by Viper (Quang Luong) and Phantom (Toby Olubi) of BBC’s Gladiators. Crowds gathered to cheer the runners on, some of whom had donned fancy dress.
Retiring Olympic athlete Chris Thompson won the men’s 5k with a time of 14 minutes 38 seconds. Tomorrow’s race was set to be the 43-year-old’s last professional running appearance but following the cancellation it may now be this victory.
Eve Bailey took the win in the women’s competition with a time of 18 minutes 35 seconds.
Here are 37 pictures of a fantastic start to The Great South Run:
21. Photo by Matthew Clark
Another wave of runners start The Great South 5k 2024 Photo: Matthew Clark
22. The Great South 5k 2024
Runners took on the 5k challenge on Saturday, October 19. While some ran for personal achievements others took part for charities. Photo: Matthew Clark
23. The Great South 5k 2024
Malek Roostaei finished in second with a run time of 15 minutes 23 seconds. Photo: Matthew Clark
24. The Great South 5k 2024
Thomas Evans crossed the line in third with a run time of 15 minutes and 40 seconds Photo: Matthew Clark