Member Article

Seven Mile Pier to Pier Race

What started out as the Redhouse Fun Run in 1983, the Pier to Pier Race has grown substantially over the years and now is a firm favourite on the calendar for runners in the region. In the North East, only the Great North Run and the Blaydon Race supersede the Pier to Pier Race in its popularity. When the run first started, it struggled to gather just 500 runners, but all that changed and now it is oversubscribed as soon as the entries are open. The number of runners has grown, with 1500 participating each year, a real credit to the organisers: The Sunderland Strollers.

This is one of the most scenic runs in the North East along the coastline from South Shields to Sunderland following the coastal paths and taking in landmarks like Souter Lighthouse.

PGS Law LLP are a leading firm of solicitors based in South Shields, and they have, once again, sponsored the race, which takes place this year on Sunday the 15th of May.

Bill Dryden, the Managing Partner at PGS Law LLP, told us why they had decided to sponsor the event again this year:

“For a few years now, we have sponsored the Pier to Pier Race that has brought together friends and families across the region who enjoy taking part in running events and, in a number of cases, do so to raise money for a variety of wonderful charities. It is a chance for runners to get to see some of the most breath-taking views in the North East while supporting others.

“At PGS Law, we do all we can to support our clients through difficult times in their lives and, when many people are suffering hardship both here and abroad, it is good to sponsor an event that brings people together and where they can help others.

“The Sunderland strollers are once again putting on a great event, and we wish them and all the runners the very best for the day.” Sponsors gift the surprise contents of the goody bags, given to all runners at the end of the race. Harry Harrison, Club Chairman at Sunderland Strollers said:

“We’re delighted that once again PGS Law are sponsoring the event, which because of the pandemic, was unfortunately cancelled for two years. PGS Law have always been extremely supportive of the event, both financially and by taking part. Many of the PGS Law team participate in the run and actively promote the event, which is hugely appreciated.”

The seven-mile run, which takes the runners from South Shields Pier along the coastal route to Sunderland Pier, attracts people from all over the country, and has an impressive 94% finish rate, which is unheard of in the running community.

Harry Harrison concluded:

“We’re all so looking forward to this race again. We’ve certainly missed it over the last two years. We just need to pray for good weather now!”

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