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Save the date – on Saturday 8 September, hundreds of runners across the region will be lacing up their trainers to take part in the Simply Health Great Tees 10K. The course loops around the famous River Tees, taking in some iconic sights, such as the Infinity Bridge, Tees Barrage and of course our very own Stockton Riverside College.

 

Andrew Featherstone, Geography teacher at SRC Bede Sixth Form and Gary Grounds, Education and Training Course Leader at Stockton Riverside College are both ambassadors for the race. They’re helping to spread the word by encouraging people to take on the challenge.

 

A keen runner himself, Andrew is a member of Sedgefield Harriers running club and takes part in fortnightly races.

 

Gary has competed in local and national running events for many years and is a member of Burn Road Harriers in Hartlepool.

 

As a geographer, Andrew’s an advocate for putting Stockton’s success on the map, saying: “It’s an opportunity to promote sport and physical well-being, but also an opportunity to promote our area. I volunteered for the 2016 National Cycling Championships and Stockton showed it can host major events.”

 



If it’s your first race, building up the motivation to run can seem daunting, so Andrew’s on hand with his top tips for training:

 

“Start with small goals, don’t be afraid to ask questions or to walk during the event. You are doing more than people sat on the couch. If you want to build up for it and get used to running with others, try something like the parkrun or other great local runs.”

 

You need to be aged 15 to enter, but if you’re not don’t worry, as you can still spur the runners on from the side-lines. Describing the atmosphere at running races, Andrew said:

 

“There’s a great community feel with individuals of all abilities finding ways to show their determination and success. There is a buzz in terms of support and encouragement from other runners and the crowd.”

 

The course finishes at the Riverside, which will bring a sigh of relief and a victory cheer for many of the runners.

 

Gary said: “You will feel exhausted but exhilarated, with a huge sense of achievement and belonging.”

 

What are you waiting for? Sign-up to the Simply Health Great Tees 10k now by visiting: Greatrun.org/Tees10k

 
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