One of the North East’s most unique challenge events will celebrate its eighth anniversary on Sunday.
The Foundation of Light’s Lambton 10km and 3km Runs, launched in 2011 in partnership with the Lambton Estate, has seen hundreds of runners take part and support the charity’s work throughout the region.
Endorsed by the Earl of Durham, the popular running event is set in the exclusive and private Lambton Estate, not usually accessible to the public and the setting for BBC drama, The Paradise.
And it is fitting that runners from local clubs are among the leading challengers.
Sunderland Harriers’ Michael Barker and Alice Smith, plus Houghton Harrier Lee Dover and Sunderland Stroller Wendy Chapman, head the list of entries so far.
Smith will be defending her title and she will be looking for a comfortable run, as on Tuesday she is competing in the Tynedale 10km at Ovingham.
She has won her last two races with victories in the New Marske 10km and Sunday’s Aycliffe 10km.
Two wins in eight days. Barker will be looking to improve on his runners-up position of last year and the much improved Dover, fourth in 2016, could be his leading challenger.
Chapman was down in 45th position last year, but a much improved performance is on the cards following her Over-45 veterans win in the big Blaydon Race on June 9.
The 10km route has seen a number of changes since its launch, with the current course including the magnificent Lambton Castle. It is a rural undulating challenge which has proved popular with club and recreational runners alike.
The race’s final stretch includes a 1km double hill which participants have dubbed the ‘Killer K’ due to its energy sapping 120ft elevation.
Suitable for families and runners of all ages and abilities, the less demanding 3km Family Fun Run is perfect for younger participants.
The 10km starts at 10am, with the 3km off at 10.10am. Late entries will be available.
The Lambton Run is one of the events that has contributed to the city’s place in the UK league for running events. A MoneySuperMarket.com infographic has ranked the cities according to the number of events and the cost of entry fees.