Marc Scott Shines with Second-Place Finish in Great North Run as Abel Kipchumba Takes Victory

Marc Scott capped off an exceptional weekend by securing second place in the Great North Run men's race, following his triumph at the UK Athletics 5K Road Running Championship just two days prior. Scott completed the half marathon in a time of 1 hour, 1 minute, and 11 seconds, improving on his race-winning time from 2021 by 11 seconds.

The men’s race was dominated by Kenyan star Abel Kipchumba, who clocked a remarkable 59:52 to claim victory. Norway’s Sondre Noen rounded off the podium, finishing in third place.

For Scott, the result marked a strong continuation of his excellent form, having already secured gold at the national 5K event on Friday night. His second-place finish solidifies his reputation as one of the UK’s top distance runners, building momentum as he continues to make strides in his career.

In the women’s race, British athlete Eilish McColgan made a valiant return to competitive racing, placing fifth after an intense sprint finish. McColgan, who had recently battled injury but represented Great Britain at the Paris Olympics, was part of a leading six-runner group that broke away early on. However, in the final 400 meters, Kenya’s Mary Ngugi-Cooper and Ethiopia’s Senbere Teferi and Alemu Megertu surged ahead.

Ngugi-Cooper, showing impressive strength in the closing stages, claimed victory with a time of 1:07:40, with Teferi finishing second and Megertu taking third. Speaking after her win, Ngugi-Cooper expressed her delight at achieving a lifelong dream.

"It was amazing. It has always been a dream to come and race here," Ngugi-Cooper told the BBC. "For me to come here, do it, and win it is a dream come true."

Both the men's and women's races delivered thrilling finishes, showcasing the depth of talent and competitive spirit on display at the 2024 Great North Run. For Scott and McColgan, their performances marked significant milestones as they continue to excel on the international stage.