Listen up social media running addicts; Strava is encouraging people from around the globe to help set the world record for most half marathons run in a single day.

The popular networking site has partnered with the Simplyhealth Great North Run, and the two are asking runners to take on 13.1 digital miles on Sunday 10 September 2017.

As things stand, over 50,000 runners have currently pledged their support to take part in the challenge on the Strava challenge page – and this number will no doubt rise.

Creating excitement

Gareth Mills, the UK Country Manager at Strava, believes it’s all about unity and is looking forward to building on the atmosphere and passion of the popular North East England race.

“We’ve seen every year how the Great North Run captures the imagination of the nation, and is a great achievement for tens of thousands of runners in the UK,” he claims.

“Using Strava, we wanted to carry the atmosphere and sense of achievement on Sunday in the North East to other areas of the UK and the rest of the world.

“It doesn’t matter where you are, or how fast you go, we want runners everywhere to join in and help us make history in setting this world record.”

Attracting runners

One runner already signed up to take part is American Jeffrey Roberts, from Kansas, and he’s using the opportunity to run the distance after a long break away from the sport.

“I will attempt this as my first non-stop half marathon in over 15 years. Last time I did it was on a high school track; it would be a pretty awesome milestone for me if I can pull it off. Wish me luck,” he says.

Susie Chan, a runner based in the UK, is taking part in the Great North Run and believes: “13.1 miles is no easy feat, but imagine being part of a huge global half marathon challenge.

“If you think you can run a half marathon, why not take the challenge with Strava who are trying to create the world’s biggest digital half marathon on the same day as the Great North Run.”

To take part, all you need to do is download the free Strava App, select the challenge and run 13.1 miles or more – you’ll even receive a token digital finisher’s badge.

To find out more about the The Great 13.1 Record and how to sign up, visit: https://blog.strava.com/the-great-13-1-record/