Great North Run organisers have revealed the medal runners will receive when they cross the finishing line in South Shields on Sunday, September 13.
This year will see 63,000 runners take part and the biggest ever Great North Run deserves the biggest ever medal.
Designed by Newcastle’s very own street artist Mul, the artwork covers the four sides of the base of the Monument, with a 2.5 metre replica medal taking centre stage. In the same style as the recently unveiled mural on the Quayside, the Medal installation will be in place until after the Great North Run weekend, providing the perfect selfie backdrop for those coming to the city to enjoy the annual festival of running.
Mul’s (Alex Mulholland) Running Heart character which is central to many of his dynamic compositions has become integral to this year’s unique GNR45 identity. His Quayside mural also included the iconic Tyne Bridge landmark, which alongside the Running Heart adorns the front of the unique 2026 finishers medal.
GNR Creator, Sir Brendan Foster said: “The Great North Run is about regional pride, ordinary people doing extraordinary things, and about our shared love of the region. Since the first event in 1981, we’ve seen countless special moments and incredible feats, so we had to celebrate the 45th anniversary in style. What better way than with a giant medal that everyone can enjoy, right in the heart of the city at probably one of the most famous meeting points. As the city comes alive across the Great North Run weekend, I can’t wait to see people’s reaction to this rather unique piece of art!”
Mul added: “This year’s medal represents the beating hearts of everyone taking part in the 45th edition of the Great North Run.”
“It’s been a privilege to put my own spin on the iconic Tyne Bridge, a landmark that has become synonymous with this legendary event. The design celebrates every person taking part, the stories behind each runner, and the incredible causes that inspire so many people to take on the Great North Run.”
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