First thing's first, I understand why some people don't like this event. I was warned beforehand that it was a bit of a 'Marmite' thing and I'm sure that's correct. If you don't like big crowds or the scenery on the route is paramount to you, you will most likely not enjoy this event. If you're anything but a top athlete, you'll struggle to PB here as there is a lot of weaving in between the tens of thousands of other runners. I use the word 'event' deliberately as that's what it is. Whilst I understand the frustrations of some others, I loved it from start to finish. Slick organisation, combined with a brilliant atmosphere made it fabulous. The people of the North-East were out in force along the whole route with pretty much a constant noise from start to finish. Many were dishing out food, ice lollies and even beer to the runners at one stage. It really does have to be seen to be believed. If you haven't yet experienced it then I would thoroughly recommend giving it a go and making your own decision. For me, it's an amazing event and I hope to be back again next year.