South Shields to host 'brutal' Red Bull Quicksand obstacle course race on the beach

Entires are open for a 'brutal' obstacle obstacle course race along a beach in South Shields.

Red Bull Quicksand is a one-mile race along Sandhaven beach in South Shields , set to take place on Saturday August 15, 2020. One mile may sound short for a race, but sandy terrain filled with obstacles make the challenge 'brutal', the organisers say.

Red Bull has organised a Quicksand race in Margate, on the Kent Coast, for the past two years. This year it is adding a northern leg in South Shields in addition to the Margate Quicksand race.

The winner of last year's men's Margate race says the mile is tougher than you would first think. Lloyd Kempson said:"Red Bull Quicksand was by far the hardest mile I’ve ever run! I went into it thinking pure power and speed would propel me to a decent placing but quickly found out in the early rounds that you need to have a tactical approach. I can’t wait to defend the title in 2020."

Mo Farah talks about making history and great support at the Great North Run

Obstacles include giant sandcastles, dunes and trenches. Obstacles can be as high as 28ft/8.5 metres.  Top competitors from each heat will compete in semi finals for the right to race in the final.

The course will feature giant sand obstacles (Red Bull)

Entries are open now, with early bird tickets costing £30 for under 25s and £35 for over 25s.

All runners will get entrance to the competitor area, a Red Bull Quicksand finisher medal and an event T-shirt. There will be 750 entries available.

Head to www.redbull.co.uk/NewYearChallenge for more information and to enter.