Hundreds of runners descended on a country park last week (26 April) for a popular running event. Hosted and organised by Sedgefield Harriers, the Neptune Relays were held in Hardwick Park and saw over 80 teams of four race each other. The relays attracted runners of all ages from around the North East, many of them representing the region’s leading athletics clubs.

First held in 2008, the popular four-leg Neptune Relays event follows a 1.7 mile route in Hardwick Park, starting and finishing in the field below the Temple to Minerva. Clubs from around the region competed in the well-established grass roots sport event, with spectators cheering them on from various vantage points in the park. 

Before this year's main event started, young runners aged 5-11 from host club Sedgefield Harriers tackled a handicap race on part of the course.

The senior men’s event was won by Elvet Striders in a time of 35:42, with Durham City Harriers claiming second place in 36:53 and Crook & District AC third (38:09). Crook & District AC won the women’s event in 42:26, followed by Stockton Striders (43:22) and Sedgefield Harriers (46:12).

The V50 men’s race was won by Crook & District AC (40:34), while Elswick Harriers won the V45 women’s race in 44:17. Durham City Harriers won the junior girls race (44:41), while the non-club category was won by Aycliffe Tri Club and Hunwick Harriers claimed the mixed team title.

Winners and runners up in the various categories received the traditional Neptune Relays prizes of bags of fruit.

For more information about Sedgefield Harriers and full results from the Neptune Relays, visit Sedgefield Harriers website.

Image: Sedgefield Harriers