Your 6 week countdown to the SG Petch Sunderland City Runs

5K route reveal, tips from our events team, and info on charity fundraising

With just over 6 weeks to go until thousands of runners are lining up on the start line of the 2026 SG Petch Sunderland City Runs, you might be thinking ‘it’s about time I started training,’ or ‘I need to get my entry in!’

We’re excited to announce our new 5K route, back to kick-start the event on the 16th May. The route will cross the new Keel Crossing footbridge, do a lap around the Stadium of Light, and finish just across from Sheepfolds Stables, where runners will be welcomed afterwards for a well-earned drink.

Thinking about doing your first official 5K? Read our blog on tips for beginners ahead of the Sunderland City 5K here.

Enter the Sunderland City 5K

Ready to tackle the 10K for the first time? Read our 5K to 10K blog now

Progressing from a 10K to Half Marathon? Here’s a 16-week plan to prepare for the big day. And don’t worry, if you’ve already got a good running base, there’s still enough time to get half marathon ready!

Our official charity partner for 2026 is Red Sky Foundation, a local charity working hard to support babies, children, young people and adults with heart conditions. Find out more about Red Sky Foundation, and consider running for Red Sky in the 5K, 10K or Half Marathon. You can request a fundraising pack on your registration form.