You could say the Great North Run is where the North really goes the distance. Every September, thousands lace up in Newcastle upon Tyne, ready to pound the pavement from city streets to seaside views. Founded in 1981 by former Olympic bronze medallist Brendan Foster, the half marathon has grown into the world's largest of its kind, regularly attracting over 60,000 runners. The 13.1-mile route starts on the central motorway and finishes along the South Shields seafront. It takes runners past landmarks like The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, pictured here, and across the Tyne Bridge—often cheered on by a passing Red Arrows flyover.

Participants aren't all elite athletes. From record chasers to charity fundraisers, and first-timers to veterans who've run every single year, the field is as varied as the weather in the North East. And with countless charities benefitting from the event, each step taken is a stride toward change. This run is also a showcase of local pride. Bands line the route, crowds bring homemade signs and volunteers keep energy high. Even if you're not running, it's hard not to get swept up in the atmosphere—spectating is practically a sport of its own.