Newcastle Frontrunners Pride 5k, 24th July 2026
Lynne Cornell shares her prideful thoughts with us once more:
“This year’s event was in Leazes Park again and it promised to be a warm, balmy evening albeit a bit breezy. Indeed the breeze meant that wigs and grass skirts would have been a challenge, so instead we opted for fairy wings in my case and belly dancing outfit in Susan’s, with both opting for tutus to complete ‘the look’!
We arrived in Leazes Park just in time to see the start of the junior race, then collected our numbers – this year with the chip built into the number – no chip timing contraptions on our legs like last year. I then realised I had ordered a t-shirt (surely I have enough!) which is a lovely orange little number with a great design on the back and best of all it fits!
Our timing was planned so we had plenty of time to peruse the cake stall and again took tupperware with us (other makes of container are available!) so we could buy our cakes before the race to ensure we actually got some, knowing we would be near the back of the field. We then watched the end of the children’s race and took our bags to the bag drop. Fascinating to see people’s various outfits – a team of 5 cardinals in their red outfits, The Wizard of Oz team (Dorothy, the tin man, the lion and the scarecrow), a group dressed as various ingredients in a fruit salad(!) and a team of ladies in inflatable unicorn and flamingo suits. Also a couple of ladies in an inflatable unicorn suit designed for 2 people – hats off to them for running in that.
Also bumped into Luke and then headed to the start for the warm up. Susan and I started near the back, as we knew we were going to have a nice run and a chat whilst enjoying the atmosphere and the various entertainment along the route.The race was started by Dame Kelly Holmes and Susan and I managed to keep her at bay until 3k when she passed us. Very supportive and chatting to everyone along the way.
The route was the same as last year – the start itself was in front of the pavilion steps and we found ourselves doing some of the parkrun route, but at times in the opposite direction to parkrun. Like parkrun it is 3 laps, so we had the joy of ‘RAINBOW’ hill 3 times.
Northern Proud Voices Community Choir in front of The Tower Cafe and Heaton Jukebox near the tennis courts provided great entertainment. On the last lap the fruit salad team had decided to stop for a while next to the choir and have a dance!!!As we crossed the finish line I heard my name being shouted and there was Mariana.
After we had received our water and very good goodie bags, more photos. A great night to be part of. Really well organised, fantastic marshalls and lots of laughter. I really enjoy this event as it is (for me anyway) one to run not race and take in the atmosphere and the sights. Thank you to Newcastle Frontrunners.”
results to follow…
