Paul Tergat makes Bupa Run Hall of Fame

They have given their all to make it one of the best events of the year, and now heroes of the Great North Run have been honoured at a star-studded celebrity gala.

The Bupa Great North Run Hall of Fame charity dinner was held last night at the Gateshead Hilton to recognise those who make a special contribution to the iconic half-marathon.

Legendary runner Paul Tergat, one of the greatest athletes of his generation, was one of five inductees into the hall of fame. During his illustrious career, Tergat captured five successive world cross-country titles, and also set world records for the half and full marathon distances.

On the track, the Kenyan has won two Olympic 10,000m silver medals and two World Championship silver medals. In 1997 he posted a world record for the 25-lap race in Brussels.

The “Gentleman”, as he is nicknamed for his immaculate behaviour on and off the track, has made three appearances at the Bupa Great North Run, and won the event in 2001 in a time of 1:00:30.

Brendan Foster, the race founder and chairman, said: “He is an elder statesman for road running, and with his legendary status is an ambassador for many world-class races and also charities supporting the poor. He fully deserves the accolade.”

Last night’s event also included a surprise announcement for host, Sue Barker, as the former world-class tennis star and BBC television presenter was herself inaugurated for the services she has provided to the event for more than a decade.

“Sue’s been an integral member of the Great North Run broadcasting team since 2000,” said Brendan.

-BBC