PLEASE NOTE:The run however does not have a set route, it is up to the runner to decide which route they take as long as it is not on the main road or paths. The run starts on the beach at South Shields (Post Code NE33 2LD) continues along the beach to Trow Rocks and on to the Leas, this is where the runners can take different tracks, the route then converges on to the car park at Marsden Grotto and then onto Souter Lighthouse, continuing on the cliff top pathways past Whitburn Firing Range and to the Bents Cottages where the runner may continue along the beach or on to the promenade. All runners eventually come on to the promenade at Seaburn and make their way to the Cat and Dog Steps at Roker then on to the beach again heading for the finish line close to the Pier (Post Code SR6 0PL).
Thank you for entering the Pier to Pier Race which this year is being supported by Northern Runner and Brooks. We hope that you enjoy the race, so please read the following details carefully to help you make the most of the event. There will be marshals on the course, and we would advise you to please take care running along the coastal pathways and pay particular attention to any instructions given by the marshals.
The race is a point to point, so transport arrangements are important. The first bus will leave the finish area at Roker for the start at 8.15am prompt. SEATS WILL BE FOR PRE-PAID TICKET HOLDERS ONLY.
Please note there will not be any transport for the return to South Shields after the run has finished.
If you are not using the bus we suggest that you make your own arrangements well in advance to avoid any mishaps. There are entries on the day up to 9.30am. at South Shields only so please bring a friend to take part in the run. Note that the baggage transport will leave South Shields fairground car park at 9.50am. prompt. There are no changing facilities at the start or finish and toilets are situated near the fairground and Bents Park.
This will be on the beach on the south side of South Shields Pier at 10.00am. The tide will be out so the start will be a good distance from the fairground please allow adequate time to get to the start.
Head along the beach towards Trow Rocks and join the coastal path (marshal at this point). After joining the cliff top path, head south. There are a number of paths to choose from. The shortest cuts across the headland towards Marsden Grotto. Take care on the steps 400 metres before the Grotto and also through the Grotto car park. Head east of Souter Point Lighthouse (left) towards the coast and pick up the cliff top path again and continue towards Whitburn. Cut down a steep bank onto the beach (before Bents cottages) along to the far end of the beach (shortest route head for Marriott Hotel) and onto the promenade. Follow the promenade until it ends at Roker beach and head for the finish line at the Pier. (a drink station will be available at a Souter Lighthouse, mid point along the course).
Drinks and Fleece Jacket will be available at the finish and the presentation will be made as soon as the results are processed. The baggage reclaim will be the grass area at Adventure Sunderland near the RNLI station.
This year the prize for first, second and third runner male and female are being donated by Northern Runner and Brooks and are as follows:- 1st £80. 2nd £50. 3rd £30. There are prizes at the discretion of the organisers for first, second and third runner male in the veteran categories 40 years, 50 years, 60 years and first 70 year old and female veteran categories 35 years and 45 years old.
The support this year from Northern Runner and Brooks is greatly appreciated.
In addition to the above prizes all runners will receive a Quality Fleece Jacket. There will also be drinks at the finish, together with crisps and a chocolate bar.
Our thanks go to Peter Dunn & Co. Solicitors, Maxwells DIY, North East Vending, Crozier Wedding Cars and Wilsons of Whitburn for their support of the Pier to Pier Run and to the City of Sunderland and South Tyneside MBC for assistance.
There are car parks at the start and finish areas but please pay particular attention to parking restrictions. Pay for your parking and do not park in unathorised parking bays or designated coach bays, as this will result in parking fines. Also have consideration for local residents and do not park in areas that may cause a problem.
To the start, the A185 or A1300 will take you in the direction of South Shields, head for the coast road A183 and travel to Sea Road and Harbour Drive close to the the Sea Hotel and the Fairground, there are car parks close by.
To the Finish, from the south A1 leave at the A690 and travel to the A19 and leave the A19 on the A1231. From the north A19 leave for the A1231. Take the A1231 and follow signs for the National Glass Centre, keep following the signs and head towards the A183, pass the National Glass Centre and continue to Roker and Sea Front, the race headquarters are on the promenade at Adventure Sunderland. Please use the car parks near the Lifeboat Station or Sunderland Yacht Club.
Latest updates or last minute changes to the run can be found at Sunderland Strollers
If you are unable to take part in the run and pass your number on to another runner, please inform us as soon as possible or before the run at the desk for entries on the day, in order that we can reregister the entry and avoid any confusion over runners names.
Good luck on the day and enjoy this scenic run and we hope to see you again next year.