We are the GNR: Luke Joyce

The lifeblood of the Great North Run, running through the 13.1 mile course year after year has always been the 60,000 people that take part. Ordinary people doing extraordinary things – every runner brings their own story, their own why but together they are the Great North Run.

This year Luke Joyce, originally from County Durham, now based in Dubai, returns to the North East for his 8th AJ Bell Great North Run. A place, and a race, that will always feel like home.
This time though, marks an incredible milestone in Luke’s life, and means more than ever.

“2025 marks 20 years since I was diagnosed with cancer as a teenager. I was told I might not survive five years. Hitting this milestone has made me reflect on everything I’ve been through and everything I still want to give back.”

To mark the occasion, Luke’s embarked on a year-long challenge: one physical or personal challenge for every month of 2025. From a skydive over Dubai to a 10K in Durham, and a trek to Everest Base Camp still to come, it’s been a powerful way to honour the past and celebrate survival, looking to the future.

“The GNR is the one I always come back to. The crowd, the community, the atmosphere there’s just nothing like it.”

This year Luke won’t be running alone – he’s recruited a fundraising crew dubbed the ‘GNR Avengers’. Over 20 friends, family and supporters all dressing up as superheroes on the day. Their goal? To raise £10,000 for Teenage Cancer Trust, a charity close to Luke’s heart.

“Teenage Cancer Trust gave me support and strength when I needed it most. Now I want to help make sure others going through that journey don’t feel alone.”

“Out of all the challenges, the GNR gets the most visibility and emotional impact. It’s a chance to bring everyone together around something that matters and to have fun while doing it!”

But behind the costumes and the finish line photos, Luke’s run is also about remembrance. “I run for those who didn’t make it. For the friends I lost along the way. For the families still fighting.”

This September, Luke and the GNR Avengers will join the sea of 60,000 runners pounding the streets from Newcastle to South Shields cheered on by over 200,000 supporters. Their superhero costumes will turn heads, just as their story will inspire hearts.

Lukes advice to those thinking of joining him on the start line?

“Go for it. Get stuck into your training, but don’t get caught up in chasing a time. Just take it all in. The people, the energy, the love. Enjoy every step and let the crowd carry you. It’s a day you’ll never forget.”

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