The AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run returned for another unforgettable Bank Holiday weekend, with 18,000 runners crossing the finish line to collect a striking, music-inspired medal. The medal, featuring deep purple tones and vinyl-style grooves, celebrated Birmingham's world-famous music heritage.
Weekend Highlights
The event began at Alexander Stadium with the Junior and Mini Great Birmingham Run, joined by Gladiators stars Bionic and Athena. On Sunday, waves of runners set off from Broad Street and Centenary Square, cheered on by honorary starters including World Championship medallist Iwan Thomas, the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Cllr Zafar Iqbal MBE, and Bab the Bull, the Birmingham European Athletics 2026 mascot.
Members of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), its Chorus, and staff played a standout role. Over 30 participants took on the 10K and half marathon, while fellow musicians performed live outside the CBSO Centre on Berkley Street, uplifting thousands of runners.
Charity and Community Impact
Since 2017, participants have raised over £10 million for charity. This year's event supported Birmingham Children's Hospital Charity, Alzheimer's Society, British Heart Foundation, and Macmillan Cancer Support. Paul Foster, CEO of The Great Run Company, said: "The AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run is always a special weekend, and this year has been no exception. Seeing 18,000 runners conquer their challenge and cross the finish line to collect such a meaningful, music-inspired medal has been incredible."
Top Winners
10K Top 3 Male:
- Freddie Fielding (Cornwall Athletic Club) - 00:31:24
- Daniel Swain (Birchfield Harriers) - 00:32:14
- Mark Duffett (Wells City Harriers) - 00:32:43
10K Top 3 Female:
- Rachel Gifford (Leamington Cycling & Athletics Club) - 00:35:03
- Caitlin Smith - 00:35:25
- Claire Hammett (Thames Hare & Hounds) - 00:35:57
Half Marathon Top 3 Male:
- Omar Ahmed (Birchfield Harriers) - 01:06:10
- Mohamud Aadan (Thames Valley Harriers) - 01:06:34
- Drew Clark - 01:09:49
Half Marathon Top 3 Female:
- Esme Davies (Border Harriers & AC) - 01:13:48
- Aoife Mooney - 01:22:59
- Grace Williamson (Birchfield Harriers) - 01:26:26
Entries for next year's AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 May 2027 are now open at a special Super Earlybird price.
