Then, they completed the 13.1-mile route to South Shields in their wedding clothes, becoming part of the event’s folklore. Now they are preparing for their 10th Great North Run together, fundraising for St Benedict's Hospice in memory of Tracy's dad, who received end-of-life care there. Their story captures what the Great North Run has become since the first race in 1981, when around 12,000 runners took part. Courtney and Olivia Mole from Spennymoor with their mum Christina (centre), who died before getting the chance to take on the Great North Run. Over 45 years, the Great North Run has created moments that stay with people for life, connecting generations through shared memories of crossing the Tyne Bridge and finishing by the sea.