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A runner in the Great North Run says she was racially abused by a section of spectators.<\/b><\/p>\n
In a video on Instagram,, external<\/span><\/a> running coach Emma Kirk-Odunubi said the incident happened at about the nine-mile mark of the 13.1-mile route from Newcastle to South Shields on Sunday.<\/p>\n She said she noticed England flags while passing through a residential area before hearing people shout: “Protect our kids. Protect our England.”<\/p>\n “And as I went past them next to the roundabout, they booed me,” Kirk-Odunubi said.<\/p>\n “People always say don’t let running get political. When I am being booed because of the colour of my skin… I’ve been running for 10 years and never have I come across that in my life – ever.”<\/p>\n She said it was her “worst experience” during a race and that “hate has no place in running”.<\/p>\n “This is racism in a space where it should not be,” Kirk-Odunubi told BBC Sport. <\/p>\n Kirk-Odunubi said organisers had contacted her and discussions were ongoing.<\/p>\n A spokesperson said GNR was “shocked and saddened” by the incident.<\/p>\n A statement read: “We do not condone behaviour of this nature and we truly believe the event is for everyone.<\/p>\n “Over 200,000 people turned out in support. It’s a real shame that a small subset have spoilt Emma’s experience.”<\/p>\n An estimated 63,000 runners took part in the race – the world’s biggest half marathon – including Prime Minister Andy Burnham, fitness coach Joe Wicks and former footballer and pundit Chris Kamara.<\/p>\n Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei won the elite women’s race<\/a> and American Zouhair Talbi the men’s.<\/p>\n The Great North Run is in its 45th year and raises about \u00a325m for charity each year.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n