Great Scottish Run axed until next year due to pandemic

The Great Scottish Run has been cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Thousands normally take part in the event, which was scheduled to go ahead in Glasgow on October 4.

Runners who had a place in the 10k or half marathon will be given the option to roll it over to the next version of the event, provisionally planned for October 3, 2021.

If they do not wish to do that they can receive a refund.

The Junior and Mini Great Scottish Run, the associated children’s event which was due to take place on October 3, has also been cancelled.

Paul Foster, chief executive at the Great Run Company, said: “We understand this will be disappointing news to all those who were planning to take part, but the safety of participants, spectators and of all those associated with the staging of the events is always our number one priority.

“Over the past few months we have worked hard to try and find a way to stage the Great Scottish Run while observing social distancing rules, and most importantly, not adding to the burden of public services.”

He added: “However, as things stand, and even as the situation improves, it’s not going to be possible to meet these goals with any certainty, and so we have concluded that the best course of action is to cancel this year’s event. We are delighted to be able to offer our runners the opportunity to roll their place over and we look forward to welcoming them back in 2021.

“We want to thank all of our participants and partners for their continued support and understanding.”