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Why is the Great North Run in the news?

Updated

The Great North Run is in the news because of its race results, Eilish McColgan’s early withdrawal through injury, and UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s participation. Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei won the women’s race, while American Zouhair Talbi won the men’s event. McColgan dropped out early because of an injury, making her withdrawal another key development alongside the two victories. The sporting coverage therefore brings together the winners’ results and the injury that ended McColgan’s race.

Burnham’s involvement adds a political angle to the event’s sporting headlines. He spoke about his reasons for competing in the Great North Run, drawing attention to his participation as well as the elite races. Together, these stories explain the current news interest: wins for Kosgei and Talbi, an early exit for McColgan, and a prime minister taking part.

The coverage

This explainer is written from the reports listed above. Follow any headline for the original coverage.