Great Birmingham Run

In 2009 the route of the Birmingham Half-Marathon, as the race was then called, came along Pershore Road for the first time. We offered refreshments - and shelter from the rain - to spectators gathered on our front steps and along the pavement.

This effort was expanded the following year, with live music and refreshments outside our own building and at another point further along Pershore Road. We had more entrants in the race too - doubling from 5 to 10 - as some of us who watched the previous year decided to get into training and have a go.

We had even more competitors in 2011, despite losses through injury. The date of the race coincided with another major sporting event, the Rugby World Cup Final, which we showed on the giant screens in our main hall.

“She ain't heavy, she's my mother”: Wild applause for Emily and Philomena

Dressing up for the occasion

Many of our runners took a rest in 2012 and we only had 5 entrants in the race. Conversely, we expanded our support operation to provide refreshments and live bands at 3 points along Pershore Road - outside the Selly Park Tavern and Fitness First as well as at our own building.

Phil on his way to raising another £500 for Amani Children's Home

The section of the course through Selly Park was modified in 2013 and many of our supporters now place themselves at the bottom of Selly Park Road to greet runners on the outward leg. They then come back to our building to give the runners a second cheer as they return along Pershore Road.

2009: the race passes Christ Church for the first time

A year later, vicar Geoff prepares to lead Team Christ Church

While the runners eat up the miles, the spectators enjoy drinks and cake

Croissants for the spectators

A runner's eye view

Runners are cheered on as they pass Christ Church

Getting a quick energy boost

Our live bands put in a (half) marathon session

A token of thanks for the hard-working stewards

It's a day for everyone to enjoy

Still applauding: it isn't over till it's over