THE ART COURSE

AS RUTH MILLINGTON PREPARES FOR THIS YEAR'S GREAT BIRMINGHAM RUN, SHE CELEBRATES THE CITY'S GREAT ART AND CULTURE EN ROUTE...

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"YOU never regret a run," I tell myself while pulling on my pair of muddy trainers.

But what about 13 miles? I am feeling somewhat daunted by the new challenge I've set myself in 2025.

On Sunday May 4, I'll be running (and hopefully completing) my first ever half marathon as the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run takes to the streets of my home city.

People have many inspiring motivations for running and, during my weekly training, I've met fellow Brummies wanting to increase their fitness, lose weight, raise money for worthy charities, and improve their mental health, which is one of the main reasons I exercise.

However, as an art lover, I'm also motivated by the route of the Great Birmingham Run itself.

Both the 10k and half marathon will take runners past many of the city's great cultural landmarks, beginning in Centenary Square.

Last year, I completed the 10k and remember standing at the starting line, where there was a real party atmosphere with music blasting from speakers and crowds gathering.

We were also surrounded on all sides by landmark venues: Birmingham Rep, Symphony Hall, The Exchange and the iconic Library of Birmingham, which houses one of the world's greatest Shakespeare collections.