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:
5. The Great South Run 5k 2024
The runners line up ahead of the start of the 5k race. Photo: Matthew Clark
6. The Great South Run 5k 2024
Viper (Quang Luong) and Phantom (Toby Olubi) of BBC’s Gladiators put the runners through a warm up ahead of the 5k run Photo: Matthew Clark
7. The Great South 5k 2024
The all important warm-up ahead of the run. Photo: Matthew Clark
8. The Great South 5k 2024
Runners get set at the start of the 5k as they look for the win. Photo: Matthew Clark