New route for Simplyhealth Great Aberdeen Run
27 June 2018
A new route has been confirmed for the 2018 Simplyhealth Great Aberdeen Run.
The closed-road event, which includes a 10k course and the only city centre half marathon in Aberdeen, returns for its second staging on Sunday 26 August.
Runners will still get to experience the incredible atmosphere at the start line on Union Street, before heading to Aberdeen Harbour, towards the Esplanade and across the Bridge of Don and the historic Brig o' Balgownie.
The route then heads through a new section in the beautiful Seaton Park, and continues through the historic surroundings of Old Aberdeen and another new section around the University of Aberdeen.
Participants will then pass Aberdeen FC's Pittodrie Stadium, without having to navigate the turnaround point at the football ground that made up part of last year's route.
Over the final few miles runners will still take in Aberdeen's iconic landmarks including Marischal College, Aberdeen Art Gallery and His Majesty's Theatre, before finishing on Union Street in front of the Music Hall.
Based on feedback from runners after last year's event, this year all participants will receive a medal and t-shirt unique to the challenge they complete, whether they take on the 10k or half marathon distance.
Jamie Still, event manager at The Great Run Company, said: “After the inaugural Simplyhealth Great Aberdeen Run, we listened to runners' feedback and have made changes that will enhance their overall event experience.
“The updated 2018 route will maintain the iconic city centre attractions whilst improving the route for runners. “Seaton Park is an exciting addition to the event and we're pleased that the half marathon participants will experience first-hand this local beauty spot, especially those visiting from outside the area.
“Last year's Simplyhealth Great Aberdeen Run was a celebration of everything that is great about the city, bringing together people of all ages who took part for fun, fitness and fundraising for many local charities, and we're excited to be returning in 2018.”
Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Jenny Laing said: “We are excited to announce the new route for the 2018 Simplyhealth Great Aberdeen Run.
“The inaugural event in 2017 was outstanding with 8,000 participants and the large crowds gathered along the route to support them. The city and wider region truly embraced the spirit of the event and Aberdeen had its very own moment to shine.
“We have worked closely with The Great Run Company and local partners to ensure the Simplyhealth Great Aberdeen Run has evolved for 2018 and bringing the route through Seaton Park will be a wonderful showcase for the beautiful parks and gardens that Aberdeen is so proud.”
The event is delivered in partnership with Aberdeen City Council, VisitAberdeenshire, Aberdeen Inspired, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce and is being supported by the Aberdeen City Centre Masterplan.
Councillor Jenny Laing continued: “Aberdeen is a dynamic city which offers a great deal for both residents and visitors. We are working closely with local and national partners to raise the city's profile through our Aberdeen 365 programme and ambitious City Centre Masterplan projects, with the aim of strengthening Aberdeen's position as a must-visit destination for high-profile cultural and sporting events.”
The Simplyhealth Great Aberdeen Run features a half marathon, 10k and Family Run, which is a one mile route open to anyone aged three and over.
Last year participants travelled from as far as Singapore, South Africa and the United States, with an estimated £900,000 raised for charity, many of those based in the North East.
Entries are open for all events, which take place on Sunday 26th August.
Register your place online at https://www.greatrun.org/great-aberdeen-run