Riverside Stadium, the home of Middlesbrough FC was a buzz of excitement on Sunday (June 16) as hundreds of participants took part in two of the region’s flagship running events, the Ali Brownlee 5k and 2k.
With the event falling on the same day as Father’s Day, many of those taking part were either taking on the challenge with their Dad, for their Dad or in memory of their Dad.
A highlight in the town’s running calendar, there was a celebratory atmosphere, with hundreds of spectators lining the streets and stands inside the stadium to cheer on their loved ones.
Staged at the iconic Riverside Stadium, both events continue to honour the memory of popular broadcaster Alastair Brownlee, who for over 30 years commentated on his beloved Middlesbrough FC.
Kicking off the day with the 5k, participants crossed the start line outside Riverside Stadium at 10am. Runners then made their way along Windward Way, via Middlesbrough College and onto Cleveland Street. Participants then made their way via Transporter Bridge and along Vulcan Street before crossing the finish line pitch side.
Providing a fundraising vehicle for charities is the primary objective of every Run For All event, ensuring that the money being raised by competitors stays local and supports the causes that needs them most.
Participants have been encouraged to fundraise for a chosen charity or for one of the event’s partner charities; the Jane Tomlinson Appeal and the Great North Air Ambulance.
Whilst participants of all abilities were taking on the challenge today, there were also competitive elite races involving some of the region’s leading athletes in the 5K distance.
In the men’s race, Lewis Gamble-Thompson triumphed with a time of 15:34, with Filmon Eyob runner up in a time of 15:52 and Dawit Asmelash third in 15:59.
Kate Storey first to the finish line in an impressive time of 18:27 in the women’s race, and was pushed all the way by runner up Emily Palmer and Keri Pearson, who clocked 18:31 and 18:54 respectively.
But the real winners were the many local and national charities, who will benefit from the efforts of the many people who took part for good causes, raising tens of thousands of pounds in the process and making a vital difference.
Participants have been encouraged to fundraise for a chosen charity or for one of the event’s partner charities; the Jane Tomlinson Appeal and the Great North Air Ambulance.
The Ali Brownlee 2k followed shortly after the 5k and along with the 5k, featured a start and finish at the stadium.
Open to children aged three and over, the 2k saw fathers, children and juniors of all abilities take part together. Participants were invited to wheel, walk, jog and run as organisers worked to make the event accessible to all.
Once crossing the finish line, participants were rewarded with a selection of post-run treats, including a hard-earned bespoke medal and finisher’s t shirt to show off with pride.
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “The Ali Brownlee 5k and 2k event was an amazing event today in Middlesbrough.
“It was really well attended and supporting so many good causes. Thank you to all those who attended and those who came to show support.”
Paul Ayre, Everyone Active’s Area Contract Manager, said: “We are delighted to support the Ali Brownlee 5k and 2k as this is such an important event for the local community.
“People of all ages and abilities were inspired to take on the challenge and did a fantastic job of raising vital funds for good causes across the region.”
The Ali Brownlee 5k is supported by Middlesbrough Council, Everyone Active, BBC Radio Tees, Coopah, Shokz, Up and Running, High 5, Arla Protein and Marathon Photos Live.
2024 is a huge year of running for Middlesbrough as the town gets ready for the return of the Middlesbrough 10k and 3k. Both events take place on Sunday, September 1.
For further information and to sign up, potential participants should visit www.runforall.com
