There’s not left until all those months of hard practice running will finally be put to the test. The Great Birmingham Run 2023 takes place Early May Bank Holiday weekend (Sunday, May 7), pushing many of us to our very limits as we complete the 13.1 mile, half marathon run. But us Brummies are made of stern stuff and will be racing to the finish line for the ultimate achievement!
If that wasn’t enough, the weekend will also host 10k races, junior races and mini runs. Confused? Don’t be. We’re here to clear a few things up and explain everything you need to know. So strap on your running shoes and stretch those legs, let’s see what we can expect from the Great Birmingham Run 2023.
When does the Great Birmingham Run start?
It’s important to clarify there are technically four different races taking place on May 7. The half marathon (17+), a 10k (15+), a 2.5km Juniors run (9-15), and a 1.5km Mini dash (3-8). The event site will open to all 8am on Broad Street, near Centenary Square. The thousands of Brummie runners will then be released in waves through the city to avoid bunching up!
The Junior Great Birmingham Run will start at 8:45am, while the Mini Great Birmingham Run will follow at 9:25am. Half-marathon and 10k runners will be broken into three coloured groups: Orange (fast paced club runners) will start at 9:30am, Green at 09:45am and Pink at 10:00am. Of course, all times are subject to change.
What is the route?
The Great Birmingham Run has a new route this year. As said, it will begin on Broad Street near Centenary Square. It will head to Jewellery Quarter, passing the Chamberlain Clock at Warstone Lane and Vyse Street, St Paul’s Square and a city-centre route that features the Mailbox, Grand Central at New Street station, St Martin’s Church, Southside and Digbeth.
Half-marathon runners will follow much of the same route, but will head out of the city centre along Pershore Road, reaching Selly Park at eight miles and a return route that takes passes Cannon Hill Park and Edgbaston Stadium. Both races will finish at the Smithfield site near Bullring; home to last year’s Commonwealth Games.
How do you enter the Great Birmingham Run?
While we expect many of you have already booked your place, you can still sign up for Great Birmingham Run 2023 by heading here. Those wanting run the half-marathon, entry is £39. While for those just after the 10k race it will cost £31. Entry for junior and mini race race is £14.
What if you have more questions on the day?
The information point will open on Broad Street Saturday, May 6 from 10am to 4pm and from 7:30am on Sunday, May 7. Here they will be able to answer most of your queries in the build up to the run. If you have not received your run number by race day, they will also be able to sort you with a replacement. See you at the finish line Birmingham!
To learn more about the Great Birmingham Run 2023 head here.