Sunderland City Runs, 10k & Half-marathon, 17th May 2026

Sunderland City Runs, and so does Lynne Cornell:

“I was just so happy to be able to do a race again, although sensible me heeded the advice given and took it steady as I’m still recovering from shingles -a souvenir from Krakow a few weeks ago!!! This has led to me cancelling a walking holiday and 2 races, so I’ve probably not been the best company – maybe this is why Steve is currently interrailing in Germany with friends!!!

Before the run I bumped into Heather, Michael, Becky and Mungai. I enjoyed watching the children’s 3k in the sunshine, but thankfully not as hot as last year. 

Then we were called to the start. This year there were no markers along the side of the starting pen to indicate estimated finishing times and the pacers were all at the start line having their photos taken!!! As Michael and I said later it did cause some confusion at the start.

On the start line a tribute was paid to Kevin Carr who was an incredible influence on athletics in Sunderland and who sadly passed away earlier this year. They then announced the Kevin Carr Memorial Trophy, which will be awarded to the first finisher of the Sunderland City 10K from 2026 onwards. A huge round of applause then followed.

Then we were off – a very speedy Anna Round passed me in the first mile as we wound our way round the streets south of the river before heading across the Wearmouth Bridge. Then right and down the hill to the river-lovely. Water point at 4k then past Sunderland Marina, along the seafront path and into Roker Park. Lovely route through the park including the hill up to the bandstand then onto Roker Terrace and beautiful views along the coast and the next water stop at 7k.

Back along Harbour View to cross the Wearmouth Bridge and finally back to the finish line on St. Mary’s Way. By this time I was feeling ready for a Nanna nap but had so enjoyed being part of something again. Another drink of water and a goodie bag and medal were waiting.

A really good morning. Definitely amongst my favourites!!!  

8 Claremonters this year-2 in the half-marathon and 6 in the 10k. Well done to everyone.”

Lucy and Mungai were separated by a mere 16 seconds and 8 places in the half, with Mungai finishing 2^nd in his category. Heather placed 3^rd in hers in the 10k, Anna and Lynne missing out on the podium by one position. Well run everyone!

Half-Marathon
Position	Runner	Time
724	Lucy Ward	1:57:09
732	Mungai Wairia (2nd VM70)	1:57:25

10k
Position	Runner	Time
98	Heather Steel (3rd VF40)	40:50
453	Anna Round	49:06
687	Lynne Cornell	52:27
1467	Michael Teasdale	60:17
1991	Becky Webster	67:31
2226	Sarah Taylor	71:30

_{Photos to follow}