Northern Athletics

What is it:

Northern Athletics offer various different races across the North of an England. 

Some clubs use the races to qualify for National competitions, however, most clubs enter to enjoy a good race either as an individual or as part of a team. 

What type of races you can expect:

• Individual road races 

• Team road relays

• Individual cross country

• Team cross country relays

• Track

All races are one offs and not part of a league.  

To enter for the equivalent national races, men’s teams have to finish in the top 25, women’s teams automatically qualify if you field a full team (for the relays) 

There are two road relay races, one in spring, one in autumn. 

Spring- 12 legs (men) and 6 legs (women) 

Autumn- 6 legs (men) and 4 legs (women) 

Distances for men vary between 5k and 8k, and women’s are more like 5k.

For the xc relays it is 2 miles per leg.

Individual road races vary, but just standard distances.

Individual cross country is around 12k for men and 8k for women. 

Who the races are aimed at:

Anyone! 

To enter, clubs must be affiliated to northern athletics which STAC now are. You must be a 1st claim member of stac to enter both individual and team races.

When are the races:

Road relays (April and September) 

Cross country relays (October)

Individual cross country (January)

Individual road races (various times throughout the year)

Track- summer months 

Location of races:

They vary across the north of England. Upcoming cross country relays are in Sheffield, recently the road relays were in Leigh. Usually within an hour-90mins away, so good opportunity for a day out and maybe some sightseeing afterwards. 

How you can get involved:

Jane will send out information for individual races and a sign up form a few months in advance! If you’re interested pop your name down or send me a message if you want some more info! 

Cost to enter 

Usually approx £10 per person 

What kit will you need to wear:

STAC vest must be worn for all races. 

Road races- road shoes

Cross country- either trail shoes or cross country spikes depending on the weather! 

Are there changing facilities:

Depending on location there are sometimes sports facilities, but not always. 

Prizes:

Top 3 individual and team. 

I believe there are also age group prizes for the individual road races too. 

Is there anything for STAC juniors 

Yes, STAC juniors can enter all of the above races, with the same conditions that they must be affiliated to England athletics as an individual and the club affiliated to northern athletics. 

Where can I find more information 

Visit the Northern athletics website: 

https://www.northernathletics.co.uk/

Or ask Jane and I’ll be happy to answer any questions ☺️