The road to glory

Senior reporter

Monday 3 September 2012

THOUSANDS of people pounded the streets of Glasgow as part of a record turnout for the 30th Great Scottish Run.

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Gerry Braiden

More than 24,089 people registered for the weekend's festival of running, surpassing the previous best attendance by almost 1000.

For the first time since 2006, a runner successfully defended his title, with Joseph Birech claiming first place in the half marathon in 63min 15sec.

Sohta Hoshi from Japan was second at 63:50, and John Kelai finished on 64:18 in third place. Ethiopian Bezunesh Bekele crossed the finish line first in the Women's half marathon in a time of 69:10. Second was Aya Nagata on 72:00 and third was Grace Momanyi on 72:42. For thousands of other runners it was more about good causes and generosity than gold medals, with most competitors ecstatic simply to cross the finishing line and raise a few hundred pounds for their chosen charity.The Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run comprises a half marathon and 10-kilometre race, with junior events kick-starting the running festival.The 13.1-mile half-marathon saw runners cross the city's Kingston Bridge, and took in Bellahouston and Pollok parks.Organisers said the event was revamped this year with the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games in mind, encouraging everyone to make physical activity a part of their lifestyle. This led to the introduction of a family mile and toddler dash.Councillor Archie Graham, chairman of Glasgow Life and executive member for the Commonwealth Games, said: "The Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run has broken another record in securing over 24,000 runners, which maintains our position as the largest mass-participation sporting event in the country. "I'd like to congratulate everyone who took part in any of the races held this weekend." It is estimated that around £1.5 million will have been raised for charity.

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