At The Great Run Company, we believe in the power of running - our runners have shared their inspiration behind taking part in our AJ Bell Great Run series events, including the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run 10k, half-marathon and Visually Impaired 10k Challenge – and it’s clear: everyone has a story and reason for running.
The Power of Running campaign brings to life inspirational stories that highlight the transformative impact running has on individuals and communities in Great Run locations across the UK, including Bristol. There are many reasons for running, but we’ll be particularly highlighting stories of mental health, community, fundraising, and physical fitness.
Holly Tilt, 28, is running the Great Bristol Half Marathon on 19 May 2024 and making her comeback one year after sustaining a serious head injury, all while continuing to manage the symptoms daily of post-concussion syndrome.
Running had become a significant part of Holly’s life, so when she sustained a serious head injury in May 2023 and doctors told her she’d have to stop running, the news came as a major blow to her.
“Running has such power because it’s not just about putting one foot in front of the other,” said Holly. “It’s about structure and setting a goal. It’s about pushing yourself beyond what you think you’re capable of, getting outside and doing something good for yourself, while looking after yourself mentally and physically. Running has the power to create real change in your life and sometimes you don’t realise it’s happening. It’s a joy for me and an anchor.”
Holly added: “Bristol is my nearest city to my home and my university city - where I went to drama school to study for my career in the theatre industry which I can't go back to post injury. The Great Bristol Run is the weekend of the year anniversary of my injury and significant life change. Making my comeback after I thought I wouldn't be able to run at again; let alone run events – it’s magic.”
For Great Run series ambassador and elite athlete, Eilish McColgan, running has always been a part of her life, and the Great Run events have been a proud part of her journey. Eilish first took part in the Junior Great North Run over twenty years ago, to now – a Commonwealth champion preparing for her fourth Olympics this summer in Paris, with the UK and European 10K and 10-mile records under her belt from the Great Manchester Run 2022 and Great South Run 2021.
Eilish McColgan, Great Run series ambassador, said: “I know firsthand the transformative impact running can have on individuals and their communities.
“It has completely transformed my life – not only is my body physically stronger than ever before, but I’ve met so many amazing people along the way.
“Running has helped millions lead fitter, healthier lives, supported with untold levels of fundraising, fostered lifelong friendships, and allowed us to create positive change in our communities.
“Mass participation events, such as the Great Run Series, provide us with an important reminder that regardless of your age, ability, or whether you’re first or last, everyone is together on the same start line to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Everyone has their own personal best, their own goals to strive towards, which for me truly demonstrates the Power of Running.”
Every runner has a story
At Great Run, we know the power running has to make a positive impact on our lives in ways big and small, and that's why we’re celebrating local people, groups and communities coming together to be part of something bigger than themselves. Every single person who crosses the finish line is an expression of positivity, local pride, and personal achievement.
We want to hear your story
Every runner has their own reason for running - what’s yours? Tell us about your running story and what the Power of Running means to you, and you could feature in our campaign: greatrun.org/power-of-running/
The AJ Bell Great Bristol Run
The rise of the runner has been about so much more than just sport. Every person who puts on a pair of trainers and heads out of their front door instantly becomes a part of a global social movement - one that has facilitated untold levels of fundraising, fostered lifelong friendships, and helped millions lead fitter, healthier lives.
Mass participation events also provide an important reminder, that even in an increasingly divided society, people can come together and be part of something bigger than themselves. Each and every finish line is a joyful expression of positivity, local pride, and personal achievement.
Bristol will host tens of thousands of runners from across the South West and beyond on Sunday, 19 May 2024 when the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run returns to the city’s streets.
Taking in some of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks, the 10k and half-marathon routes include a trip through the historic harbourside, past Castle Park and through Queen Square, with views along the Avon Gorge on the way.
To secure your place at the start line, visit: www.greatrun.org/events/great-bristol-run/
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