Great South Run weather set to be 'challenging'

More than 25,000 runners are set to take part in the annual Great South Run events, despite forecast bad weather.

The main 10-mile (16km) race starts from Clarence Esplanade in Portsmouth on Sunday morning and takes in city landmarks including the Historic Dockyard and Spinnaker Tower.

Organisers said runners should prepare for "challenging conditions", with the strong winds and rain which have been forecast..

A number of road closures will be in place for the race as well as the 5km (3-mile) run and children's events on Saturday.

In a statement, organisers Great Run said the event would go ahead as planned, despite the the heavy rain and gusts of up to 46mph expected.

"Runners are advised to come prepared for the conditions and bring warm layers to wear at the start line, as well as leaving warm, dry clothes in the baggage facility to put on after they finish.

"We will continue to monitor the weather ahead of Sunday and will keep runners updated with any changes," it added.

The first Great South Run was held in 1991 and it has become known for its flat, fast course.

Organisers said this year's sold-out event was set to be the "biggest in a decade".

As well as attracting elite athletes, the bulk of participants run to raise money for charities and the event generates millions of pounds each year .

In 2023, Zakariya Mahamed won the men's event with a time of 00:46:41, while Lily Partridge achieved the fastest women's time, completing her run in 00:54:04.

Dale Muffet was the fastest man competing in a wheelchair, finishing in 00:52:57, with Ella Bouvard winning the women's wheelchair event, with a time of 00:53:43.

Winners in previous years have included Sonia O'Sullivan in 2002 and 2003 and Mo Farah in 2009.

This year sees the final competitive appearance of three-times winner of the race, Chris Thompson.

The 43-year-old double Olympian won the race three years running from 2016.

“It’s been an amazing journey, and I couldn’t think of a better place to close this chapter of my career,” he said.

The first wave of runners set off from Southsea Seafront at 10:00 BST.

The route takes them through Old Portsmouth, past HMS Warrior and HMS Victory in Portsmouth Dockyard and twice along Winston Churchill Avenue.

They then head back along the length of Southsea Seafront to Eastney and then west along the front towards the finish line.

President of the Great Run Company Sir Brendan Foster said: "It’s not only about pushing physical limits but also bringing people together for a common cause. Every year, millions are raised for hundreds of charities, which is something we’re incredibly proud of.

"The stage is set for this year’s runners, and I’d like to wish all of them the very best of luck!”

A Great South Run 5km (3-mile), junior and mini runs are also due to be held on Saturday.

A number of road closures will be in place near the race site during both days, including Clarence Esplanade, Pier Road and Avenue de Caen.

Rolling closures of roads along the main race route on Sunday will be put place until about 14:00.

Participants are advised to use public transport, including the park and ride service from Tipner.

Event parking on Southsea Common will be accessible before 09:30 and after 13:00.

There are additional Hovertravel flights scheduled on Sunday morning for runners from the Isle of Wight.

First Bus is offering free travel home for runners who show their medal to the driver after the Great South Run.

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