My Story

As I lace up my running shoes, the crisp air of the great north half marathon will fill my lungs. My mind will be focused, but my heart will carry a weight – a weight named Luke. His memory, his spirit, and his enduring fight against cancer are the driving forces propelling me forward on this run.

I reminisced about the first time I met Luke, back when the snow-capped mountains were our playground. i was just kid then. My favourite memories of Luke and spending time with his charming family are long nights spent sitting in circles, some on sofas, some on beanbags, and some on tall chairs playing games; my favourite was ibble dibble. When it's time for the sun to rise, we take a photo and everyone's faces are decorated with black dots, with triumphant Luke with often having the fewest. Luke was the epitome of vitality, his laughter echoing through the slopes as we carved our way down the powdery trails. Little did I know that our bond forged in the snow would become a cherished friendship that would endure the test of time.

But life took an unexpected turn when cancer entered Luke's world in 2018. Despite the diagnosis, Luke remained determined, facing each day with unwavering courage and a spirit that refused to be dimmed. He fought with all his might, never allowing the disease to steal his enthusiasm for life. Even as the years passed and the battle grew tougher, Luke continued to live each moment to the fullest, surrounded by his loving family and a vast network of friends who stood by him every step of the way.

In early 2023, as the world bid farewell to winter and welcomed the promise of spring, Luke's journey on this earth came to an end. He may have lost the battle against cancer, but his legacy of resilience, love, and strength remained etched in the hearts of all who knew him.

As I run through the miles of the half marathon course, I carry Luke's spirit with me. With each stride, I honour his memory and the countless others who have faced the same formidable foe. And as I cross the finish line, the sense of fulfilment will wash over me, knowing that my efforts were not in vain.

I chose to run for the AMMF charity because I wanted to give back in honour of Luke – a man who taught me the true meaning of strength and perseverance. The warmth of his spirit, the love of his family, and the companionship we shared on and off the slopes inspired me to support others in their fight against cancer. With every pound I raise, every mile I run, and every heart I touch, I hoped to make a difference – to offer hope and support to those who, like Luke, faced the challenge head-on.

And as the sun set on the horizon, casting a golden glow over the mountains, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace knowing that Luke's legacy would live on, lighting the way for others in their darkest hours.

                             Thank you! :)

60,000 determined and dedicated runners make the AJ Bell Great North Run the World’s biggest and best half marathon – famous for its warm North East welcome, unbeatable atmosphere and the millions raised for good causes.

We’ll see runners back on the AJ Bell Great North Run, city to sea course, on Sunday as we return to our traditional finish line in South Shields. The AJ Bell Great North Run is an opportunity for us all to come together and support one another.

If you're unable to run and have to withdraw from the 2024 AJ Bell Great North Run, you have the option to defer your 2024 AJ Bell Great North Place to the next year.  You can find more information here. 

If you have any event queries, see our FAQ section here.