Great South Run Solo launched to raise money for Covid-19 appeal

The Great South Run, a 10-mile run around Portsmouth that draws 20,000 to the streets every year, was due to take place on Sunday, October 18.

Now the organisers are calling on runner to complete the Great South Run Solo – 25 runs across 48 days - to be with a chance of gaining a medal.

Bronze medals will be awarded to anyone completing a total of 75 miles, while silver goes to runners achieving 125 miles, and gold for a distance of 200 miles – 8 miles per run.

Catherine Foster, brand and marketing director at The Great Run Company, said: 'There is always a huge buzz in Portsmouth when the Great South Run takes place, and since we can’t be on the start line together in 2020, we wanted to create a challenge for runners that helps them stay motivated and celebrate what would have been the Great South Run weekend.’

Entry costs £10, with all profits going to the NHS Charities Together Covid-19 Urgent Appeal.

Catherine added: ‘The virtual running challenges we have launched this year have so far raised up to £250,000 for the NHS Charities Together Covid-19 Urgent Appeal, giving back to our heroes in the NHS.All profits will be donated to this cause, but we do encourage runners to continue their charity fundraising to raise vital funds for charities close to their hearts.'

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The challenge begins on September 1, with participants encouraged to complete their final run on October 18.

Organisers are also asking runners not to run in large groups and to adhere to social distancing guidelines at all times.

Both the Great East Run, due to take place in Ipswich in September, and the Great North Run, due to take place in Newcastle in also in September, have been cancelled.

Runners without a charity place due to take part in this year’s 10 mile race can roll over their entry to next year’s Great South Run.

Visit greatrun.org/great-south-run to apply for the Great South Run Solo challenge and to complete a roll-over form for next year before September 26.

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