Record numbers race in Great Scottish Run

By David Bennett

Some of the world's top runners have been joined by fundraisers and thousands more in one of Scotland's biggest sporting events.

Almost 24,000 people took part in the Great Scottish Run in Glasgow - setting a new record in the process.

The event included a half marathon and 10K race on Sunday. Shorter racers for junior competitors took place on Saturday.

Olympic gold medallist Sally Gunnell and Michelle McManus - host of STV's The Hour - were among those taking part. Michelle completed the 10K course in one hour, 42 minutes.

Health secretary Nicola Sturgeon was due to take part but had to pull out after picking up an injury while training for the race.

In all, 23,386 people signed up for this year's races, beating last year's record of 20,868. A spokesman for organisers Glasgow Life said: "We had to introduce a limit of 22,000 runners for the 10K and half marathon races as runners flocked in their thousands to take part.

"The decision to cap entry levels for both races was taken to ensure runners get the safest and best possible race-day experience – a key priority for the event."

The 10K kicked off in George Square at 9.30am on Sunday and the half marathon at 10.30am. Both finished on Glasgow Green. The courses took runners around the south side of the city, with the half marathon including Bellahouston Park and Pollok Park on its route.

Deputy leader of Glasgow City Council, councillor Archie Graham - who completed the 10K himself - said: "Today showed just why the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run is the country’s premier road race. It has it all from an exceptional elite field of athletes to thousands of everyday heroes running for a cause close to their heart.

"Every year the event sets new records, from personal bests to the numbers taking part, and today was no different, with a record-breaking 23,386 people registering for the various races. It truly was a day to remember."

'Brilliant atmosphere'

STV itself had a number of competitors taking part in the events.

Among the first to finish - and report back - was STV's marketing manager Gill Petrie, who told STV News it was a "great day". She added: "Brilliant atmosphere and lots of people raising money for some fantastic charities!"

STV News director Laura Trimble said: "Despite the nerves and the massive queues for the toilets at the start point, the Great Scottish Run 10k was an absolutely fantastic experience.

"I didn't really know what to expect as it was my first race, but there was a real sense of camaraderie between the runners and we were all propelled to the finish line by the generous support of those who took the time to cheer us all along the course.

"I was grateful to hear a piper at every kilometre - they made it so easy to keep motivated. Running over the finish line was totally exhilarating - I'll definitely be running again next year."

Evonne O'Rourke, from STV Creative, said she "had a great race". "Perfect weather, great atmosphere and enjoyed the route - not sure if I would have said the same if you asked me half way through the race!" she said, adding: "Glad I've done it - now off to the pub!"

The race was launched in 1982. Since then, 350,000 people have taken part in its various forms.