Thousands of runners will be gearing up for Tyneside's iconic Blaydon Race this week as the event returns for its 41st outing on Friday, June 9.
Beginning on Newcastle's Quayside, runners will make their across to Gateshead in the journey to Shibdon Playing Fields in Blaydon. And if you're one of the 4,700 people taking part in the historic occasion, you will need to brush up on the list of instructions for the start line and the race itself before Friday.
While it will be easy to get caught up in the excitement of it all on the day, it's important to make sure you follow the rules of the race to ensure that everyone stays safe and has an enjoyable experience, yourself included. Whether it's your first time running the Blaydon Race or you need a refresher, take a look at the instructions below that come directly from the organisers on what you must and must not do.
READ MORE: Sam Fender in Newcastle: Metro closures for St James' Park gigs as major changes confirmed
Full list of instructions for runners
Here is the full list of important race instructions from organisers for all participants to take heed of when it comes to the need-to-knows, dos and don'ts and top tips for the assembly, start and running of the race:
Luggage buses leave the start area with your bags between 6pm and 6.30pm. Your luggage label is printed on the cut off strip on your number - you must cut this and attach it to your bag.
Portable toilets will be located at the start in front of the Law Courts and at the finish on the field.
Runners must not warm up immediately in front or behind of the start line on Quayside Road - this area will be kept sterile until the Start Director invites runners to enter the pen.
The start line is on the Quayside Road (B1600), adjacent to King Street (what3words -magma.sprint.pilots).
Runners must assemble no later than 7pm in front of the Law Courts in two blocks: Club Runners nearest to the start line (race numbers 1 to 2237) and Unaffiliated Runners behind (2238 and beyond). The two groups will be set off at 30-second intervals.
When you are invited to enter the start pen, you will be held a short way back from the start line by the Start Team. The Start Team will walk the pack forward to the start line in preparation for the start of the race.
Runners must keep clear of Cycle Route 72.
Runners must always comply with instructions from marshals and the police.
You will be chip timed by your number - you must place your number on the front/outer layer of your running t-shirt/vest.
At the start of the race, remain within the barrier system and ensure you cross the sensor boards to register your start time.
Make sure you cross the sensor boards at the end of the race. Compliance with the above will ensure you receive your race time.
You must not wear headphones.
Competitors who are forced to walk at any stage of the Race, must keep to the left and not impede overtaking runners.
Runners overtaken by the rear official race vehicle will be asked to leave the roadway and continue on the pavement. A race marshal will accompany the last runner, it is essential that you comply with any advice or instructions they give.
READ NEXT:
