The Great North Run, the world’s largest half marathon, has introduced a significant change to its entry process for 2025, with the launch of a new September ballot. This new system is designed to give participants an additional opportunity to secure their spot in the race, which will take place on Sunday, September 7, 2025.The September ballot will open on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 10 AM and close at noon on Friday, September 13, 2024. This early ballot allows runners to apply even before the 2024 race has occurred, a shift from the traditional January ballot system. All applicants will be notified of their status by Wednesday, September 18, 2024. For those who are unsuccessful in securing a spot in September, there will be another chance in the usual January 2025 ballot.This new ballot system is expected to attract a record number of applications, as it caters to the immediate surge of interest generated by the live broadcast of the 2024 race, which is scheduled for September 8, 2024. To enhance their chances, applicants are encouraged to participate in the September ballot, with the option to reapply in January if necessary.Additionally, a limited number of Great North Run Memberships will go on sale after the September ballot, offering guaranteed entry to the next three events, providing an added incentive for keen runners