Events of The North are keen to offer more racing opportunities for Britains best endurance talent and those aspiring to get quicker and develop their careers.
The Sunderland City Runs have attracted the likes of Paula Radcliffe and Aly Dixon in the 10km and Half Marathon as well as some of the North Easts best runners.
The Elite 5km on Saturday evening will be part of the mass event and will undoubtedly attract a high quality field in pursuit of great prizes and fast times.
The iconic Northern Spire hosts the new course which should produce a superb racing environment which will kick off the Sunderland City Runs weekend.