Great South Run 2024 cancelled as forecasted inclement weather puts a stop to hugely popular event

The Great South Run 2024 10-mile event on Sunday, October 20 has been cancelled as organisers make the difficult decision following forecasts of strong winds and gusts.

A spokesperson for the event said: “We’re really sorry to confirm that this year's Great South Run (10 miles), scheduled to take place on Sunday 20 October, has been cancelled due to the forecasted high winds and rain.

“We’ve been closely monitoring the weather conditions and unfortunately they haven't improved to a point where we can safely stage Sunday’s event. The forecasted winds and gusts compromise our event infrastructure including our medical facilities at the finish and around the course.

“This combined with high tide levels, potential debris, and the exposure along the seafront mean that we can’t guarantee the safe delivery of the event. Safety of our participants, staff and volunteers is our number one priority.

“We haven’t taken this decision lightly and have been liaising closely with the Met Office, medical & safety teams, local authorities and key stakeholders throughout the week to make the best informed decision.”

The competitors have been advised of the decision and further information will be sent next week as to how they can roll their entry over to next year, or claim a refund in line with their terms and conditions.. Next year’s Great South Run is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 18 and Sunday, October 19, 2025.

The spokesperson added: “We know how disappointing this is and we hope everyone can understand why this decision has been made.”

The last time the Great South Run was cancelled was in 2020 due to Covid lockdown.