Super Saturday Puts Young Runners in the Spotlight
The Great Bristol Run has never been short on ambition, but 2025 looks set to shake things up in a way that hasn’t been seen before. Organizers announced they’re splitting the event into a full weekend, carving out Saturday, 10 May, for Bristol’s youngest runners. The plan? A 1.5km loop right in the heart of the city for kids aged 3 to 8, and a 2.5km challenge for those 8 to 15. It isn’t just about the medals and finish lines for these junior competitors—all proceeds go to the Grand Appeal, the official charity for Bristol Children’s Hospital.
Families living in Bristol know how tricky it’s been to fit everyone’s race into one busy Sunday morning, with some juggling start times or missing out entirely. The new Saturday spotlight fixes that headache. Kids get their moment, parents can cheer them on, and—bonus—they still have Sunday free to run themselves or just enjoy the party atmosphere. Paul Foster, the guy in charge at the Great Run Company, says this change is all about keeping things fair and fun, especially for families who want to make a weekend of it.
Sunday Classic Returns with Big Crowds and Bristol Views
Come Sunday, the serious racing kicks off, and if last year’s 20,000-strong crowd is any clue, expect a sea of runners lacing up for the 10k and half-marathon. The city’s best scenery acts as the backdrop, with routes winding past Castle Park, the buzzing Harbourside, and a leafy stretch through Queen Square. If you’re there for the vibes and not just the race, there’s live music on the route and a massive celebration waiting at Millennium Square, so no one’s leaving bored or hungry.
This two-day formula isn’t just about crowd control or a slick timetable—it’s about making the Great Bristol Run truly belong to everyone in the community. Kids get a proper platform, charities like the Grand Appeal get a boost, and adults don’t have to squeeze their races around family logistics anymore.
With demand already sky-high and this fresh approach leading the way, organizers are warning runners to act fast. Early sell-outs are almost certain, especially among families eyeing both days. Bristol’s running calendar just got a big upgrade, and if you want in, you’ll need to be quick.
