Jake leads the way for Harriers in Blaydon Race

Blaydon Harriers hosted the 43rd edition of The Blaydon Race on Monday, writes Kevin Carr.

- by Sport Reporter

The race is the biggest club event in the North East with over four thousand runners.

Created in 1981 by Dr James Dewar, of Blaydon Harrier and Athletics Club, the event is a road race from Newcastle to Blaydon and follows the route the horse racegoers took in the 1862 Geordie Ridley song.

The first race attracted 212 athletes and with its popularity growing year on year, it now sells out the 4,700 available spots within record time.

Sunderland Harrier Jake Ridding was the first local runner over the line this year. He finished in ninth place in a time of 29.52 over the 5.8 mile course.

Team-mate Liam Taylor was next home for the club in 20th position, clocking a time of 30.51.