THE big names backing one of the region’s most popular events are unveiled this week.
The Ali Brownlee Riverside Run 5k road race and 2k Fun Run take place on Sunday, July 2 – but neither event could happen without their headline sponsors.
Once again the Cleveland Centre return as headline sponsors, firmly established as one of the Riverside Run’s key supporters and with their sponsorship now extending to September’s 3k Fun Run alongside the ever-popular Tees Pride 10k.
Social housing providers Thirteen Group return as shirt sponsors for the Run Middlesbrough programme, marking nearly a decade of involvement
They’re joined by newcomers and local company Bespoke Financial who are sponsoring this year’s 2k event at the Riverside Run.
The Ali Brownlee Riverside Run was renamed last year in honour of the local broadcasting legend who died last February after a short battle with cancer.
The event is staged by Middlesbrough Council and leisure services partner Everyone Active and features a popular 5k route taking in some of the town’s iconic landmarks including Temenos and the Transporter Bridge before a memorable finish beside the hallowed turf inside the Riverside Stadium.
Race Director Jimmy Wattis said: “We’re looking forward to another record-breaking Riverside Run, and the entries are already starting to pour in.
“Our sponsors play a key part in ensuring we can lay on a truly memorable day for all those taking part.
“There’s still plenty of time to get in shape, so I’d urge as many people as possible to snap up the remaining places.”
Darren Roulston, Senior Protection Advisor at Bepsoke Financial, said: “We are delighted and extremely honoured to be asked to be a part of the Ali Brownlee 2K Fun Run.
“He was a local legend and this being such a great event for the local community, we are proud to be able to sponsor this event.”
Chris Smith, executive director of service delivery and development at Thirteen, said: “As the largest housing provider in the Tees Valley, we’re delighted to be supporting this year’s 5k, which really brings people in the town and wider community together and promotes health and wellbeing.”
Councillor Lewis Young, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “The Ali Brownlee Riverside Run is already one of the highlights of the region’s running calendar, and those running and walking the course know they can expect a truly great experience.
“Thirteen Group and the Cleveland Centre have play a key role in the event’s success, and I’m delighted to welcome Bespoke Financial to the RunMiddlesbrough family.”
- To register for either the 5k or 2k please visit www.runmiddlesbrough.com
Entries are also being taken for the 2017 Taylor Wimpey Tees Pride 10k and 3k Fun Run which takes place on Sunday, September 3.
For further information contact Jimmy Wattis on 01642 200833