Record breaking Gordon Smith Relays!

A record-breaking 150 teams turned out in force to take on the annual Gordon Smith Relays in Wallsend on Wednesday.

Clubs from across the North East descended on Segedunum, with each member of the teams of three running a two-mile leg each. This year, the new course included the gruelling Swan Hunters bank but it did not deter the awesome pack who did the former Wallsend Harriers Chairman, Gordon Smith, proud.

Tyne Bridge Harriers entered an impressive 26 teams and swept the board on the night, coming first and third in the Men’s Team category (32:48 and 34:00 respectively). Alison Dargie and Terry Scott of Tyne Bridge were the fastest male and female vets (12:19 and 11:11 respectively). Kurt Heron and James Dunce were also the club’s 1st and 2nd fastest senior men (10:45 and 10:52 respectively).

Second men’s team was Gateshead (33:50).

The top three ladies teams were Jarrow & Hebburn 00:39:19, Alnwick 00:40:31 and Gosforth 00:40:42. And the fastest lady was Paula Foley from Gateshead.

26 youngsters took part in the 1k Fun Run, with some fantastic times from our Green and Gold Juniors. First across the finish in just 5:22 was Mat Summers, with Ethan Bond second in 5:49. Marissa O’Rourke was hot on his heels as first girl in an impressive 5:51, with Ellen Williams and Briony Livermore neck and neck fourth in 5:54. Full results here.

Thanks to all those who turned out to run, not to mention the supporters, organisers, marshals and the very patient David Daniels for taking on the mammoth task of sorting the results! Full list here.

It seemed very fitting as I turned on the car radio on my way home that Radio 2 was playing ‘Local Hero’. I felt very proud to be part of a special community of North East runners who came together to remember their own local hero. I’m sure Gordon was smiling down on us all.

Emily James