A record-breaking number of runners will pound the streets of Glasgow this weekend in the Great Scottish Run.
More than 22,500 runners have signed up for this year’s Great Scottish Run – 8% more than last year.
Glasgow City Council Leader Gordon Matheson is leading a team of councillors in this year’s run and they are all pledging their support for the Evening Times’ Glas-goals campaign.
He’s running the 10K on Sunday, with colleagues Coun Archie Graham, deputy leader and executive member for the Commonwealth Games, and Coun Mohammed Razaq. Councillor Matt Kerr, executive member for social care, is running in the half marathon on the same day.
Mr Matheson, said: “I like to keep fit and the Glas-goals campaign, which has my wholehearted support, has inspired me to get my running shoes on again this weekend.
“I’ll support two charities – the UCare Foundation which is helping coordinate Scotland’s response to the Pakistan floods, and Dial-a-Dream which helps make the dreams of children with life threatening illnesses come true.
“We can all do our bit to keep fit to improve the health of this great city. Glas-goals is a fantastic way of encouraging Glaswegians get fit.”
The councillor, who previously ran the New York marathon, added: “I’m used to leading the city council, but I’m not expecting to be leading the field in the 10K.
“However, it’s taking part that’s important.”
Since the race launched in 1982 around 350,000 people have taken part in its various forms.
Last year’s half marathon winner was Jason Mbote of Kenya 61mins and 19 secs.
The 10K winner was Tsegai Tewelde of Eritrea in a time of 29min and 57secs.
Online entries for this year’s event have closed but there is one last chance to register.
Places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis at the official race hotel, Jurys Inn Glasgow in Jamaica Street.
The race office will be open to take entries for all races from 8am until 8pm today.
It will also be open tomorrow from 9am until 6pm for the 10K and half marathon only.
Race organisers announced last week there will be a limit of 22,000 runners for the 10K and half marathon and there are a few hundred places left.
There is no limit at present for the 1.5K and 3K junior races for nine to 17-year-olds.
Presenter Jenni Falconer, radio personality George Bowie and Scots singer Michelle McManus are a few of the famous faces taking part.
Mr Graham said: “It promises to be a fantastic weekend.”
Sign up to be part of Glasgow’s big health revolution
Do you want to get involved in Glas-goals? Here’s your chance.
Our campaign is aimed at tackling the city’s appalling health record and it is for everyone, regardless of your age or where you live.
The Evening Times has teamed up with partners including NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow Life, Glasgow City Council, GHA and Glasgow 2014.
And we’ve been working with groups such as Marie Curie Cancer Care and Sport Relief to help improve every Glaswegian’s health.
We are targeting a series of health goals, including basic fitness, obesity, diet and smoking.
Sign up today and be part of the Glas-goals health revolution.
Tell us what your goals are. Email glasgoals@heraldandtimes.co.uk
