5 Raring2go! FEATURE The Great North Run first took place in 1981 and is now an iconic race attracting elites and fun-runners alike. Each year over 60,000 participants tackle the 13-mile course from Newcastle to the coast. Many of them, like Jake Perrie, raise money for good causes, making it a key event in the fundraising calendar for local charities. The Great North Run isn’t just for adults either. The mini and junior GNR caters for those aged 3-16 years and takes place the day before the main race over a far shorter course along Newcastle’s quayside. It’s a great way for young people to get into running and even fundraising. Jake, who has run four Junior races for Tynedale Hospice at Home, was then inspired to enter the GNR as soon as he was old enough. Jake, now 18 says: “Growing up in the North East meant that I was always aware of the Great North Run and I thought that doing the junior race would be a fun challenge. I’ve always enjoyed running and thought the junior race would be brilliant event to take part in, as well as an opportunity to raise money for a good cause.” According to estimates, GNR raises a staggering £25 million pounds for charity each year. Jake has already raised £2,000 for Tynedale Hospice at Home, a charity he knows well, “My mum works for the charity so I’ve seen first-hand what amazing work it does. The charity cares for people in the final stages of their lives in their own homes, as well as providing support for their loved ones.” Jake’s favourite part of the junior race is running over the Swing Bridge and getting an amazing view down the river and all the other bridges. He remembers fondly, “My family always used to stand at the same point on the bridge every year so it was great to know when I would see them to give them a high five as I ran past.” Each year Tynedale Hospice offers charity places in the GNR for those who wish to make every step count. They also organise a bus for runners and supporters (whether or not they are running for the charity). A return bus ticket from Prudhoe is £15 and £18 from Hexham (available at tynedalehospice.com). If you have an idea to raise money for the Hospice, contact cathy@tynedalehospice.com. Mini & Junior Great North Run Jake’s tips for first timers 1. Don’t skip your training – it might not seem like much fun slogging around the streets on your own ahead of the big day but you will definitely see the benefit. 2. Make sure you stay hydrated during the race, it makes all the difference. 3. Don’t forget to have fun – it really isn’t about coming first, it’s about making sure you take in the sights and sounds and remembering every shout of encouragement from random strangers. In short, it’s about having fun. Jake’s tips for reaching your sponsorship target 1. Tell everyone you are doing the race - including your nan’s dog! The more people know the more you will raise 2. They say ‘Shy bairns get nowt’ and if you’re raising money for a great cause, whatever it is, ask for support - people are happy to give something and the more people you ask the lower the donations can be. 3. It’s also not just about asking for money. It’s also easy to arrange events such as cake stalls or garage sales which are a great way of fundraising.
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