Lisa & David Take on the Great North Run for Transport 17

Lisa Bradshaw

Jul 21

3 min read

Every September, thousands of runners descend on the North East to take part in one of the most iconic running events in the world -the Great North Run.

For many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime challenge. For Lisa, it’s becoming more of an annual “why do I keep doing this to myself?” tradition.

This year, Lisa is taking on the Great North Run once again, joined by David, and for the very first time they’ll be running in support of Transport 17.

Lisa first ran the Great North Run back in 2009. At the time, she thought she was slow. Over the years, she got quicker, built up experience, and learned exactly where the hard bits of the route are - which is unfortunately most of it.

Since then, she’s only missed a few years due to what she describes as “minor setbacks” - including back problems and a broken leg........ pretty reasonable excuses

Now she’s back again. Possibly slower than ever, definitely older than in 2009, but just as determined to get from Newcastle to South Shields.

As Lisa says, slow and steady will get her across the line… hopefully.

Taking on the World’s Biggest Half Marathon

The Great North Run is much more than a race. It’s a celebration of the North East, community spirit, fundraising, determination and thousands of people all deciding that running 13.1 miles on a Sunday is somehow a good idea.

The event was first held in 1981 and has grown to become the world’s biggest half marathon, attracting runners of all abilities - from elite athletes chasing record times to charity runners, first-timers, fancy dress heroes and people just hoping their knees don’t give up before South Shields.

The atmosphere is a huge part of what makes the Great North Run so special. The crowds, the music, the charity vests, the signs, the cheering, the high-fives and the famous North East welcome all help carry runners along the route.

Even when the legs are tired, the support from the roadside makes a massive difference.

The Famous Great North Run Route

The Great North Run route is one of the most recognisable in the country.

The race starts in Newcastle upon Tyne, where thousands of runners gather at the start line full of excitement, nerves and last-minute doubts about their training plan.

From there, runners head through the city before reaching one of the most memorable parts of the day - crossing the Tyne Bridge.

For many runners, this is the moment where it all feels real. The bridge is packed with runners, the crowds are roaring, and the sight of everyone streaming over the Tyne is one of the most iconic images of the Great North Run.

After crossing into Gateshead, the route continues through local streets and communities, with support coming from every direction. There are bands, charity cheer points, families shouting names from running vests, and plenty of kind strangers offering encouragement just when it’s needed most.

The miles then continue through South Tyneside, where the route becomes a test of both body and mind. By this point, the excitement of the start has worn off, the legs are starting to complain, and runners begin negotiating with themselves about how far it is acceptable to “just slow down a little bit”.

For Lisa and David, this may be where the famous determined shuffle comes into its own.

Eventually, after 13.1 miles of effort, sweat, laughter, questionable pacing and possibly a few muttered words not suitable for publication, runners make their way towards the finish in South Shields.

The final stretch by the coast is emotional, noisy and unforgettable. There’s relief, pride, medals, tired legs and the wonderful feeling of knowing you’ve done something really special.

And if you’re lucky, maybe chips afterwards.

Why Lisa and David Are Running for Transport 17

This year’s run is especially meaningful because Lisa and David are taking part to raise money for Transport 17.

Transport 17 plays an important role in supporting elderly and isolated people in the community, helping provide transport and connection where it’s needed. For Lisa and David, running the Great North Run is a chance to give something back and raise funds for a cause close to home.

Every step they take from Newcastle to South Shields will be in support of Transport 17 and the people who benefit from its work.

They may not be breaking any land speed records this year, unless there’s a new category for “most determined Geordie shuffle”, but they’ll be giving it everything they’ve got.