Ohlssons Great South Run was established in 1983 as a half marathon (21.1K) race which incorporated ASA championship, due to end of sponsors partnership it had to discontinue in 1998 after 15 years of partnership with Ohlssons lager in road running.

In 2007 Great Run was re-established under rear circumstances by Global running club, in its first year the race attracted 700 participants and at the same time it was rated the highest paying 15K in South Africa and best development race in Athletics Gauteng North (AGN)

2008 Great Run continued from 2007 in increase in number of participants to 1000 runners and walkers across all distances.

In 2009 the records showed highest turn out that Great Run Association (GRA) and Global Running club never anticipated. Even though due to no sponsorship we had to reduced prize monies from R15,000.00 to R6,500.00 the record turnout was 1200 participants across all distances.

In 2010 GRA and Global Running club strived for professionalism implementation and ensuring enjoyment and fulfillment in the race.  Great Run and Weskoppies Hospital formed partnership to stage races inside hospital, as part of social responsibilities.

Trademarked Great Run South Africa and GRA have formed Great Run 2011 Challenge Series I & II, challenging athletes to run two leg race.