Beyond Newcastle Ultra, 25th April 2026

Ann Smith was our sole representative in this event, sensibly choosing teh 25K option!

“Having previously run no more than 21.1 km in one go I was a little apprehensive about running 26 km in the Wild Deer Beyond Newcastle ultra and trail event, but the race information provided reassurance, emphasising a welcoming inclusive event.

The race started by the Swing Bridge on Newcastle’s Quayside, with the 55 km runners leaving at 8 am and those taking the shorter route 2 hours later. It was a gentle start with most participants taking it slowly and chatting as we headed West along the Quayside. As we arrived at Scotswood Road I was delighted to see that we were to cross the road and continue on Hadrian’s Way, away from the busy road featuring in the Blaydon Race.

We crossed the Scotswood Bridge, then back East along the Tyne to the Derwent River where we turned off towards Derwent Park. At around 8 km conditions became more trail-like, and we were joined by incredible ultra runners for a few km until the feed station which provided an opportunity for a break.

Fuelled by jaffa cakes and Snickers I was careful to take the 25 km route (thanks to Nina for the warning about how easy it is to mistakenly join the longer run here) and as I headed into the countryside I realised all the people I had been running with were either carrying on the 55 km route or staying at the feed station and I was on my own. Fortunately there were lots of pink signs to assure me I was on the right path as I continued along the most beautiful part of the route, downhill to the river which was glistening in the sunshine, then uphill back to the viaduct.
The route returned to the Tyne and back towards Newcastle along the south side of the river, past the Metro Centre to the Staithes where the end of the run came in to view. The next 3 km were along a familiar Claremont Monday night route, but now with unfamiliar warm sunshine.

The short incline onto the Swing Bridge felt like a mountain but the sight of the finish line encouraged me to keep running across the bridge. The final challenge was running across the busy cobbled carpark then back under the bridge to the finish.

It was an enjoyable, friendly event on an interesting and picturesque route, particularly in the spring sunshine with wild flowers, trees in blossom and birdsong and, although it was challenging in places, the time passed quickly as there was so much to see.”

Ann finished 161st in a time of 3:24:18.