82 year old runs Portsmouth iconic Great South Run for the 23rd time

"I guess I’ve always been sport-minded and very committed," Phil says. "For many years, I played and refereed football at high levels, but when that chapter came to an end, I needed something else to focus on. That’s when running became my sport. It quickly took up a lot of my time, from training to racing."

Phil's connection with the Great South Run (GSR) is a long-standing one, dating back to its first event in 1990. He remembers it vividly. "The first GSR in Southampton was a tough, hilly course with about 2,500 runners. It wasn’t an easy start!" Since then, the race has moved to Portsmouth, and Phil has enjoyed watching it evolve. "The Portsmouth GSR is much nicer," he explains.

"The views along Southsea seafront are beautiful, and running through the Naval Base is always a highlight. Now there are up to 20,000 runners, which shows just how much it’s grown."

Despite the many races he’s participated in, the GSR remains his favourite. "It’s a flat and scenic course, which makes it a pleasure to run. But what I love most is the camaraderie. It’s not just about running; it’s about the community that comes with it. And of course, there’s still that competitive edge. If there’s someone in front of me, I want to beat them!"

This competitive spirit is evident in his personal best time for the race, an impressive 59 minutes and 56 seconds, a feat that shows his determination.

For Phil, running is about more than just physical fitness. "The power of running for me is the joy of just being able to go out and run with like-minded people. Over the years, I’ve met so many great runners and made friendships that will last a lifetime."

It’s this sense of community, combined with the personal challenge of racing, that keeps Phil lacing up his running shoes year after year.

As Phil continues to participate in the Great South Run, his dedication to the sport serves as an inspiration to others, proving that age is no barrier to enjoying the sport you love.