Active Sunderland BIG 3K Run - FAQs

Sunday 12 May 2024, Keel Square / St Mary's Boulevard 

The Active Sunderland BIG 3K Run is a fantastic opportunity to take part in a running event on the same day as the Sunderland City 10K and Sunderland City Half Marathon. With a focus on fun, the Active Sunderland BIG 3K offers a 3km route on closed roads around Sunderland City Centre, suitable for those aged 5 years and over.   

The 3K Run is not a race - you can walk, jog, skip or run, you could even do it in fancy dress!  

When does it start?  

The 3k run will start at approximately 9am from Keel Square.  

Who can take part?  

The BIG 3K is for participants aged 5 years and over, please note that children aged 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult.  

Is there an upper age limit?  

No. All that we ask is that any participant unsure of their physical ability to take part should seek medical advice from a general practitioner prior to the event.  

I haven't run in an organised run before. Can I still enter?  

Absolutely! This event is just for you although it is advisable to try a few shorter runs before the event. This event is not a race against the clock but a fun and safe way for you to find out how enjoyable running is and to hopefully start running regularly.  

If you would like to try running before the event there are weekly parkrun's in the city you can attend for free as well as the Couch to 5K app that will get you ready in less than 10 weeks. Take a look at the links below to find out more:

Get running with Couch to 5K - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

about us | Herrington Country parkrun

home | Silksworth parkrun | Silksworth parkrun

home | Mowbray Park junior parkrun | Mowbray Park junior parkrun

How much does it cost to take part?  

Adults £7 without a T-shirt or £10 with a T-shirt

Child aged 5 to 8 with an accompanying adult runner £12

Child age 9-17 £5

Group of 3 (1 adult and 2 children) £15 

Group of 4 (max 2 adults) £20  

Is this a charity fund raising event?  

No. It is a mass participation event and any income generated is used to stage the 3k run and to support future events. However, if you wish to do the run in aid of a chosen charity you can do so.  

How do I enter the event?  

Entry is available online only at www.mysunderland.co.uk/big3krun 

What is the route?  

The route is on closed roads and footpaths around the city centre. The route will be fully signed on the day, in addition marshals will be located along the route to guide runners (a marshal will always be in sight)  

Will I receive confirmation of my entry?  

Yes. Confirmation will be sent via email, upon receipt and processing of your entry form. 

Please check your spam folder just in case your confirmation email ends up there.   

Additional information will follow in the weeks before the event.  

If you do not receive a confirmation email or any correspondence after entering, then please email us at active@sunderland.gov.uk  

Will I get my running time?  

Yes, this year we will be using a chip timing system again. Please note to enable this to happen runner's details will be shared to a 3rd party.  

My son / daughter is running independently, where will be the best place to meet them at the end of the run?  

After receiving their medal and refreshments independent runners will be released to their parents or guardians on the opposite side of the road to the finish line, the area will be signposted and clearly marked.   

You will not be able to collect your children from any point other than the designated collection point, as this will be a secure fenced-off area. This is for the safety of all runners. Please familiarise yourself and those running the event with the collection area prior to the run. 

What do I need to wear?  

You will need to wear supportive training shoes and comfortable clothing which allows you to move freely. Please pay attention to the weather forecast for the day of the event and tailor your outfit accordingly.  

Are changing rooms available?  

No. There are no facilities of this type please arrive changed and ready to start.  

Do I need to have any previous running experience to take part?  

No. The Sunderland BIG 3K is a fun event for all that you can walk, jog, skip or run! 

If you do want to practice / train before the event then check out the links to parkrun and the Couch to 5K app above. 

If I have a disability, will I be able to participate?  

Yes! If you need any extra support or assistance, please contact us before the event by emailing active@sunderland.gov.uk  

Can I volunteer for the event?   

Yes. We're looking for a large team of volunteers to help us with the delivery of the event. Please register your interest by e-mailing active@sunderland.gov.uk   

How soon before the event do I need to arrive?  

We recommend you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the event to familiarise yourself with the set up. If you have any questions on the day, the Active Sunderland information point will be in Keel Square within sight of the Magistrates Court and will open at 8:00am.  

Roughly how long will it take complete the course?  

We would expect most runners to complete the 3km course between 15 - 35 minutes.  

Is there somewhere that I can park my car?  

There are car parks within a mile of the start that will be open for runners. Please see the below link to a full city centre parking map and charges.  

http://www.sunderland.gov.uk/article/12213/Parking-facilities-and-services  

Please note St Mary's Car Park will not be accessible on the day of the event. 

There is a good public transport service operating within a short walk of the start. Metro trains will be running to Sunderland and St Peter's stations.  

Parking in the city is limited, so we're encouraging as many people as possible to use public transport.

You can download the BetterPoints app and collect points for travelling to the event by public transport or walking.

Download the app from the App store or Google Play by searching for BetterPoints.  

Is the event easily accessible via public transport?  

Yes. There are numerous bus services from all over the city and wider region that stop within the city centre. In addition, there is a frequent metro service in the city centre. The closest stops to Keel Square are Park Lane Interchange and Sunderland Station.  

For further information log on to www.nexus.org.uk or call Traveline on  

08712 002233  

What happens if it rains?  

The event will only be cancelled if there are severe weather conditions. Make sure you are suitably dressed for the event. If it is drizzling or cold in the morning bring additional clothing.  

Are refreshments available at the event?  

Yes. There will be catering units situated in Keel Square, in addition there are numerous catering outlets within the nearby city centre. Also please note water will be given to all participants at the end of the run.  

Will there be a first aid presence at the event?  

Yes. There will be several qualified first aiders along the route so in the unlikely event that you sustain an injury please let a marshal know.  

Where can I find further information about other Active Sunderland events? 

Information about all Active Sunderland BIG events in 2024 can be found at Events - MySunderland or find Active Sunderland on Facebook and keep up to date with all the latest information.