23,000 runners take to city streets

Sep 2 2012

Thousands of runners have taken to the streets of Glasgow for a race which saw participants cover some of the city's busiest roads.

The Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run comprises a half marathon and 10-kilometre race, with junior events kick-starting the running festival on Saturday.

The 13.1-mile route saw runners cross the city's Kingston Bridge, as well as taking 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.

The number of people taking part in the races over the weekend was expected to hit 23,000.

Archie Graham, chairman of Glasgow Life and executive member for the Commonwealth Games, said: "It is clear that events like the Olympics and Glasgow 2014 are inspiring a generation to embrace sport.

"We've been delighted by the incredible demand for both the family mile and toddler dash. Both proved so popular we had to expand the initial capacity and in the end we had to include not one, but four toddler races. What a wonderful position to be in."

It is estimated that around £1.5 million will have been raised for charity over the weekend.