Great North Run
1 October 2006

Pictures and stories from this year's Run

Truly a 'Great' day. A great day for the Great North Run. A great day for the Association, with more runners running for us than ever before. And, as far as we could judge, a great day for the runners.

The first man to finish for the Association was that seasoned and consistent athlete Ted Ferguson, with 1 hr 34 mins 33 secs, knocking 43 seconds off his time of last year.

First lady home was newcomer Sophie Blincoe with a time of 1 hr 43 mins 43 seconds. Four other members of Sophie’s family - Chris, Kate, Caroline and Andrew - were also running, though not as quickly as Sophie.

Great North Run medal	Ted Ferguson	Sophie Blincoe

As usual our runners came from many parts of the country, from Dorset in the south to Montrose in the north; from Wrexham in the west to Norfolk and Suffolk in the east.

As well as our own local supporters, large contingents came from Yorkshire, Lancashire, Merseyside and London and good numbers too from Cheshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Derbyshire.

Simon Selkirk of Harrogate

For the first time we had our own paparazzi stationed along the route, photographing our runners as they passed.

David Drew	Claire Cropper	Mike Moran and Alastair Blackman

After the finishing line local volunteers acted as human signposts to guide our runners down to the Welcome Tent.

Here, the runners gathered and took their refreshments, met up with their friends and relations and relaxed. Association staff from National Office greeted, congratulated and thanked runners. Local volunteers served hot and cold drinks and buffet food.

Running was a very serious business but for many there was more of a party mood once the Finishing Line had been crossed.

David Perrin

For others it was a more a time for quiet satisfaction and relief at the achievement of a worked-for goal. None more so than for Liz Shipley.

Liz Shipley and Martin Boyes

Liz, living with MND for the past 8 years, did the Run in her wheelchair, pushed by a team of firemen from Hebburn Fire Station.

But behind the high spirits and the smiles and the congratulations, none of us forget that there is tragedy.

Virtually everyone who ran for the Association, or who helped on the day, did so because their lives have been touched by Motor Neurone Disease - a loved one, a friend, neighbour or work colleague.

On behalf of the Association and of all people whose lives are affected by MND, we give a sincere and heartfelt "Thank You" to everyone - runners, supporters and sponsors - who helped to make the day a success.

Here's to next year!

Ted Ferguson

Pictures and stories from this year's Run

Pictures and stories from 2005

Pictures and stories from 2004

Pictures and stories from 2003