Quayside 5k Runners at Start line
This year’s Quayside 5k and Junior 3k were nothing short of extraordinary, setting new benchmarks not just for the North East but for the UK running scene as a whole. The 2024 edition of these races wasn’t just about fast times and great memories—it marked a significant achievement with both events earning official World Athletics status. This prestigious recognition cements the Quayside 5k’s reputation as the premier 5k race in the region and places it among the elite road races on a global scale. The Quayside 5k and Junior 3k will return on August 7th.
The Junior Quayside 3k also had its moment in the spotlight, being selected as the inaugural North Eastern Counties Athletics Association (NECAA) 3k Road Race Championship. This is a tremendous honour for everyone involved, from the dedicated team at Gateshead Harriers to the young athletes who have given their all in this race. The recognition is a testament to the quality and spirit of the event, and it’s clear that the future of running in the North East is incredibly bright.
Reflecting on this year’s race, the Quayside 5k delivered as expected—a fast, flat course that attracted runners of all abilities, from elite competitors to dedicated amateurs. The atmosphere along the Newcastle-Gateshead Quayside was electric, with participants pushing their limits against the backdrop of iconic landmarks like the Gateshead Millennium Bridge and the Tyne Bridge.
In the Junior Quayside 3k, the competition was fierce among the U13, U15, and U17 athletes, with the top three boys and girls in each category being awarded championship medals. The winners were also crowned as North East Champions for 2024, a title that carries significant prestige in the regional running community. Additionally, the overall winner of the Junior Quayside 3k took home the John Stephenson BEM Trophy, named in honour of the legendary Gateshead Harriers master coach, further highlighting the event’s deep roots in local athletics.
Runners from Quayside Junior 3k at Start Line
Looking forward to 2025, we’re excited to build on this year’s successes and continue to raise the bar. With the Quayside 5k and Junior 3k now recognized by World Athletics, we’re committed to delivering an even better race experience for all participants. Whether you’re an elite runner chasing personal bests or a young athlete looking to make your mark, these events offer something special for everyone.
The Junior Quayside 3k will once again serve as the NECAA 3k Road Race Championship, giving young runners the chance to compete at the highest level while representing their clubs and communities. To make the race as accessible as possible, we’re keeping the entry fee at £5, and as always, free elite entry is available for top North East juniors who have demonstrated exceptional performance over the past year.
As we prepare for next year’s races, we encourage everyone to start gearing up—whether that means training harder, setting new goals, or simply looking forward to another unforgettable race day on the Quayside. 2025 promises to be a landmark year, and we can’t wait to welcome you back to one of the most exciting events in the UK running calendar.
Stay tuned for more updates, and we’ll see you on the start line in 2025!