Well done to Steve, Sarah, Chris and Tom who took part in the most iconic half marathon on the planet yesterday along with 54,000 runners from all over the world.

Test Analyst, Stephen Thompson; Account Executive, Sarah Knott; Database Administrator, Chris McHugh; and Web Developer, Tom Evans all completed the Bupa 30th Great North Run yesterday – and they’ve got the blisters to prove it.

TH_NK’s Steve and Sarah ran for Bowel Cancer UK along with their friends Jon, Chris and Alex, who collectively raised £1,750. When asked about his third consecutive Great North Run, Steve said: “A very good friend of the runners sadly lost her dad after a brave battle against bowel cancer, so we chose to run for Bowel Cancer UK in memory of her late dad. This year, my preparations were much improved - no football 24 hours previous and no torn ligaments. Just a thoroughly enjoyable jaunt with a great bunch of people. It was emotional, but fun.”

Sarah added: “I was dragged into doing the Great North Run by Steve. It seemed like a good idea at first until the training started, but now it’s all over, I’m delighted that I completed my first ever GNR. It was an achievement and privilege for me to be involved in such a well-known event and to help out a great charity. My legs suffered from all of the training, but I have been rewarded with a set of toned pins. Not such a bad idea after all.”

Chris McHugh from TH_NK also ran the 13.1 miles from Newcastle to South Shields yesterday, soaking up the atmosphere and excitement of the day. He ran with his brother for the Children’s Heart Unit Foundation (CHUF) at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle. Chris commented: “I raised nearly £500; this will make a big difference to the guys through at the Freeman Hospital and I could not have done it without everyone’s support. The day was fantastic, and the atmosphere brilliant. I exceeded my target of getting round before the cleaners and I also beat several super heroes (Batman and Robin, Captain America, and The Incredibles), however, I was pipped at the post by a man carrying a fridge.”

Web Developer, Tom Evans ran for Asthma UK with his friends Dez and Graham who are well on track to raise £650 after they take on another half marathon next month dressed as two bananas and a gorilla. When asked about his first experience of the Great North Run, Tom said: “We all beat our personal best. This was probably down to the great support from the crowd for the entire length of the course and the amazing atmosphere throughout the day. The highlight of the day was running down the hill on to the finishing straight with the view of the sea - a great way to finish the race. Next up is the Birmingham Half Marathon on the 24th October, so there’s no rest for me.”

Well done to everyone who took part and helped to raise so much money for all three charities.