Fun ideas to get kids into running
Running is a great way for kids to meet their daily activity goal. Here are some fun ideas to encourage kids to get into running.
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Junior &
Mini Events
It’s Fun to Run
Our hugely popular kids running events get the whole family involved. And with banging tunes, plenty of high fives and an electric atmosphere as standard, there’s no better event to kickstart a lifelong love of being active.
We welcome Minis aged 3-8 to take on a fun and frenzied 1.5k dash, while Juniors aged 9-15 (16 at Junior Great North Run) tackle a 2.5k challenge, or an even more incredible 4km at the AJ Bell Junior Great North Run. Crazy costumes optional; incredible finish line feeling guaranteed.
And, have you met Tyney? Tyney the Tortoise is our official Great Run mascot and they have an amazing time meeting, and high-fiving, junior and mini runners at events! Tyney is on a mission to spread the word that running is fun for all ages – say hello to endorphins, great moods, self-esteem and friendships old and new. You can find out more about Tyney, download fun activities, read helpful blogs and sign up to your nearest kids running event below.
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SOLD OUT
AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run
It’s the UK’s biggest kids’ running event for good reason and 2024 was the biggest yet! 2025 is now SOLD OUT - see you on the start line.
AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Birmingham Run
We’re getting the next generation of Brummie runners off to a flying start. Join us for crazy costumes and a totally unforgettable experience.
AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Bristol Run
Running solo is great, but running together is even better. The AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Bristol Run is a fun Saturday event for young runners aged 3-15 yrs.
AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Manchester Run
It’s the biggest (and best) kids’ running event in the North West. Get ready for pumping tunes, and a whole lot of energy.
AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Scottish Run
Aged 3-15? Love loud music, being active and having fun? The AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great Scottish Run is for YOU - ready, steady, go! 2025 entries are open!
AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great South Run
If you love to be beside the seaside, we’ve got the race for you. Join us in Portsmouth & kickstart a love of running for your young athlete.
RUNNERS, ARE YOU READY?
Stars of the UK hit show Gladiators will be the official starters for this year’s AJ Bell Junior & Mini Series events! They’ll be on hand to ring the famous starters bell and cheer on our young runners as they take part in what is set to be the UK’s biggest kids running series this year. Stay tuned to find out which Gladiators will be coming to a start line near you in 2025!
“The Gladiators team are delighted to be involved in the AJ Bell Junior and Mini Great Manchester Run. Encouraging movement and staying active is something we deeply care about so we can’t wait to see all the young runners taking on the challenge. We’ll be on hand to high-five the runners and cheer them across the finish line – If you haven’t signed up already, what are you waiting for!” – Alex Gray (Apollo)
Tyney’s Story…
Hi I’m Tyney! I was born south of the River Tyne in 1981, with a unique shell… After being teased for my different shell, I left South Shields to find out where I belonged. I followed the River Tyne all the way to Newcastle to see what I had been searching for… the Tyne Bridge! With the arches bearing a remarkable resemblance to my shell, it was here where I felt that I belonged and from then on, became known as Tyney.
On my journey to find a home, I was mocked for being slow and told I would never be able to run! Born in the North East in the 1970s, there was only one hero who kept me motivated to keep running… Sir Brendan Foster. His 1976 Summer Olympics outfit is the inspiration behind my vest and shorts too!
I’m not the best nor fastest runner, but I always put 110% into what I do! I’ll be joining some of the Junior Mini events this year, encouraging people to be themselves and to not let anyone have the power to knock others down. I like to think that I am a friend that everyone needs!
I also never say no to a good dance, and even have my own signature move called the ‘shell-shake’ which will be coming out at all Great Run events that I come to!
Tyney’s Tips
Running Is Great For Kids – Here’s Why
We all know about the health benefits of running for adults, and Kids are no different. Let’s dig into why running is so good for youngsters.
Perfect Parks for Terrific Training
Every running star of the future needs to train – and the great news is that getting active outdoors keeps you physically fit, boosts your…
Tyney’s Terrific Running Tips
Tyney the Tortoise reveals his terrific running tips ahead of the upcoming Junior & Mini and Family events!
Fun Activities
Download and print a template below to design your own Tyney shell, or colour Tyney in!
