We are the GNR: Margaret and Dave Copeland

For 44 years, ordinary people doing extraordinary things has been the lifeblood of the Great North Run. They are the Great North Run. From first-timers to seasoned veterans, every one of the 60,000 runners lining up in September brings with them a story of resilience, community and heart.

Few stories capture the spirit of this event quite like that of Margret and her husband Dave, both lifelong residents of Felling, Gateshead. Married for 56 years, their AJ Bell Great North Run journey is more than just a race, it’s a reflection of a life spent side by side, in movement and in meaning.

At 78, Dave is one of a rare group of runners to have completed every single Great North Run since 1981. Of the original 12,000 runners, he is now one of just 72 remaining members of the elite GNR All Runs Club. This year will be his 44th Great North Run.

“I still have every single T-shirt and medal,” Dave says.

His wife, now 76, will be taking on her 42nd GNR, having caught the running bug a few years into their journey together.

“When we met, Dave was always a runner, but I had no interest at all,” she says.

“But after a few years of watching him, I decided to give it a go. Honestly, I hated it at first! But I stuck with it — I’ll never forget the feeling when I first ran two miles without stopping. After that, there was no looking back.”

Their involvement with the Great North Run has stretched far beyond race day. From volunteering at the Junior Great North Run, Margaret as a last runner marshal, Dave as a lead biker with the Event Team at Gateshead Council, to giving time at other local events, their dedication to the running community runs deep.

This year, Margarat is running on a charity place for Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter, another way she continues to give back to her community, alongside her regular volunteering with Embells Community Support.

The couple recently completed a 9.5-mile run together as part of their pre-race prep, proving that age is no barrier when it comes to staying active.

“Even though our times get slower every year, we’re just happy to still be able to run together and always reach the finish line.”

But beyond personal goals, this couple hope their continued participation sends a message: you’re never too old to start.

“Our own GNR history keeps us coming back every year, but we also hope we can inspire others — whether it’s to take on the Great North Run themselves or to just start running, walking, or training towards a goal. No matter your age or experience, it’s possible. Set a goal, commit to the training, enjoy the process — and be proud of yourself.”

This September, they’ll once again stand on the start line — a little slower than they once were, but no less determined to reach the finish line.

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