South Shields running group teams up with Marsden Grotto for a unique fitness challenge

Run Eat Sleep, a popular running group from South Shields, has joined forces with the Marsden Grotto to launch a unique fitness challenge.

Titled the ‘Sea to Summit to Sea’ challenge, participants will be able to take on a 5k route from the Grotto up to and around Cleadon Windmill before looping back to the iconic restaurant.

Those taking part have the option to challenge themselves to set a fast time or can enjoy a leisurely stroll with family and friends.

Once complete, participants can add their time to a leaderboard, which is located inside the entrance of the Marsden Grotto.

Luke Adams, a running coach at Run Eat Sleep, has given an insight into where the idea for the challenge came from.

He said: “The idea was inspired by running club member Jonathan Everett’s route and we like to do this challenge regularly as a training session.

“I’ve seen these fun & interactive leaderboard challenges in the Lake District and Yorkshire so thought it would be a great thing to do for ourselves in South Shields.

“We love this route as it’s uphill all the way out with a lovely downhill run back with fantastic views over the Cleadon Hills and Marsden Quarry.

“We’re working on some other fitness challenges coming to the area soon too.”

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Run Eat Sleep and the Marsden Grotto have worked closely with Kaye Symington, a local artist, who has helped bring the challenge together with an artistic leaderboard.

For more details on the ‘Sea to Summit to Sea’ challenge, visit: https://runeatsleep.co.uk/seatosummit/.