With the biggest ever Great North Run just days away organisers of the world’s greatest half marathon announce that the BALLOT FOR THE 2027 event is now OPEN.

The Ballot runs from Monday, 7th September at 8am until midnight on Sunday 20th September, at which point ballot applications close. The draw takes place on Monday 21st September with applicants notified of their results soon after.

For those inspired by this year’s runners or those eager to fulfil a bucket list half marathon, this is your first opportunity to secure entry into the 2027 event, which will be held on Sunday 12 September 2027 – sign up now at greatrun.org/north.

With 63,000 runners taking part on Sunday in what will be the 45th edition of the Great North Run, this year will be the biggest ever staging of the event. The event’s profile and popularity continues to grow, with organisers expecting a record number of ballot entries for 2027.

Paul Foster, Chief Executive of the Great Run Company said, “Since that first Great North Run in 1981, we’ve had over 1.4 million finishers. 2027 will see us surpass the 1.5 million milestone – will you be that lucky person? Being a Great North Run finisher is an enviable club to be part of and we wish everyone good luck with their ballot application. For those who are aren’t successful, they will have another chance to secure ballot entry in January, or via one of the many charities who offer places to run our great event.”

Since 1981, the Great North Run has captured the imagination of runners across the globe. The event will feature some of the world’s leading athletes competing at the front in the elite men's, women's and wheelchair athlete races, before 63,000 runners take on the 13.1-mile course from city to sea, spurred on by over 200,000 spectators lining the streets in support as the region comes together. Once again, the Great North Run will be broadcast live on BBC One from 10am and to over 170 countries worldwide.

Looking Ahead To This Year’s Event

The Great Run Company has pulled together a jam-packed week of events running from Monday 7 September to Monday 14 September.

As part of the new GNR Fringe, you can expect Shakeout Runs across the North East, Runners' Restaurant Weekend, Coffee Raves, a Pasta Party, Runner's World Live Podcast, personalised merchandise print sessions, community beach yoga sessions, book signings, cinema screenings, and an After Party.... Just to name a few!

The running action kick starts with the AJ Bell Great North Run 5K race this Friday, and what will be the 40th edition of the Junior and Mini events on Saturday.

For the full 2026 timetable and event guide, click here. To enter the ballot for your chance to be on the start line next year visit greatrun.org/north.