It's to be all-action in Sunderland this year as a series of join-in sporting events prepare to hit the ground running.
On of the biggies in our selection of runs taking place in the area is the Sunderland City Run which will be celebrating its 10th birthday this year with the help of community "superheroes" who are inviting everyone to follow in their footsteps.
The Sunderland Superheroes - all nominated by members of the public for their inspirational achievements - are joining forces to encourage others to get involved in the city's running festival which will be marking its special anniversary this May.
Sunderland City Run - 5k, 10k or half-marathon
The Sunderland City Run will celebrate its decade of activity - in the same month as the Race for Life events - and this January an 'early bird' offer is available which means people can make a saving when they sign up.
Dates: The 2020 Sunderland City Runs will start with the Sunderland City 5K on the evening of Saturday, May 9 which makes use of the iconic Northern Spire Bridge.
Then the next day will see thousands take to the streets in the Sunderland City Half Marathon and 10K, and the Active Sunderland BIG 3K, which all start and finish at Keel Square.
Prices: To see prices and bag a place see here. A £10 early bird price for the BIG 3K is available until January 16.
The council is also running a Step Up campaign and free Start Me Up For Sunderland training sessions which will start on January 29 and are open to anyone who enters one of the events. Places are available on a first-come, first-served basis by emailing info@sunderlandcity10k.com
Race for Life 5k and 10k
There is also a chance to receive a discount on this year's Race for Life 5k and 10k runs which will be taking place in Sunderland, in aid of Cancer Research, on May 31. See here.
Parkrun 5k
Other available choices for runners in the area are the 5k Parkrun events taking place in Sunderland every Saturday morning which are free, although those interested need to register first. See here. There are also junior parkrun events for those aged between four and 14.
Great Run Local 2k or 5k
Great Run Local is another free weekly initiative which comprises 2k or 5k runs in Mowbray Park - as well as at Souter Lighthouse - and are organised every Sunday by volunteers. Again, registration is required. See here.
Washington 10k
Around 600 people are expected to take part in this event on Sunday, April 26 from urbantrails . The 10K race starts at Biddick Academy and winds around James Steel Park and along the banks of the Wear. It is open to everyone from competitive runners to novices, however, it must be completed within two hours. Entry is open now and costs £20/£22.
Penshaw 10K
Another one from urbantrails, this event takes place on October 4, heading uphill to Penshaw Monument and along the River Wear. It has a reputation as a tough course.
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