After the stormy cancellation of the 10-mile race last year, the 2025 Great South Run events came back stronger than ever.
Over 25,000 runners of all ages hit the streets of Portsmouth across the weekend of 18–19 October for the 35th anniversary of the race, cheered on by an incredible 75,000 supporters who braved the weather to line the course. The atmosphere was electric, and the city was buzzing with energy.
Foster Portsmouth’s team this year was a brilliant mix of people who care deeply about fostering in our city. The group included three children in our care, two children who foster, six of our fabulous foster carers, and twelve Portsmouth City Council staff and their family members. Together, they ran with purpose, pride, and passion.
Team members Oscar and Bertie – who has a care experienced close family member – reported that they, “…absolutely loved it, despite the weather!” It was both their first time running the Great South Run and they did really well with a time of just 1hr 23mins. They are reported to now be, “…hooked and planning their next one!”
Dan, a Portsmouth City Council staff member who joined the Foster Portsmouth team, shared his thoughts:
“Running is more than exercise. It teaches endurance, and that really resonates with what Portsmouth foster carers do. I completed the 5k Great South Run last year to raise funds for the Refugee Council, but this year felt even more special.”
Dan continued: “Running for Foster Portsmouth meant every stride was for a cause that truly matters – raising awareness for the difficult but incredibly rewarding job our foster carers do.”
Another PCC staff member, John, took things to the next level – running barefoot!
“I ran this year’s Great South Run barefoot to shine a light on the incredible resilience of foster carers in Portsmouth. As a social worker, I see their strength and compassion every day. My barefoot run was a symbolic way to honour the challenging path they walk and to encourage others to consider fostering.”
See John’s ITV Meridian interview and BBC News report.
John continued:
“It was a really good atmosphere, despite the rain. As ever the Portsmouth crowd was out in large numbers and full voice. My feet got a little sore towards the end, and I caught a sharp stone around the 5 mile mark in my left foot which tore it a bit, but I had a couple of Haribos from a spectator to numb the pain! All in all, a really good day and great to see a few different runners in Foster Portsmouth vests around the course.”
Darren, the father of one of our other very proud staff members, also joined the Foster Portsmouth team for his first ever Great South Run. Darren, who also took the opportunity to raise money for a charity close to his heart, said: “I was glad to raise awareness for Foster Portsmouth.”
The weekend featured a variety of races – the 5K, junior (2.5km), mini (1.5km), and the iconic 10-mile run. Each race offered stunning views across the Solent, a fast and flat route, and a chance to soak in Portsmouth’s rich history and iconic landmarks. The city’s supporters kept spirits high with music, cheers, and fist bumps all along the way.
Whether people ran for fun, for charity, or to raise awareness for services like Foster Portsmouth, the 2025 Great South Run was a celebration of community, resilience, and heart.
Massive congratulations to all our runners – you did Foster Portsmouth proud!
To enquire about fostering with Foster Portsmouth, or to arrange a 1:1 with one of our experienced team or existing foster carers, please contact us.
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