Help us upgrade our track!

Revitalising Gypsies Green - Laying the Foundations for Future Champions

For over half a century, the track at Gypsies Green has been the heart and soul of athletics in South Shields, the cherished home of South Shields Harriers and Athletics Club. Generations of athletes, from budding youngsters taking their first strides to seasoned runners pushing their limits, have pounded its cinder surface. This very stadium has also proudly played a significant role in the iconic Great North Run finish since its inception in the 1980s, a testament to its enduring place in our local sporting heritage.

However, time has taken its toll.

Our beloved track, untouched by significant upgrades for over 50 years, is now showing its age.

The uneven, cinder surface, often overgrown in areas, no longer provides the safe and fast training environment our athletes deserve. This is particularly disheartening for our incredible junior members, who are denied the quick and consistent surface they need to truly excel and reach their full potential.

Despite these challenges, South Shields Harriers thrives as an integral part of our community. We are a vibrant and inclusive club, boasting over 200 members ranging in age from 5 to 79! We are more than just a sports club; we are a supportive family that champions both physical and mental well-being, fostering a strong sense of community spirit.

Imagine the possibilities if our facilities matched the dedication and talent of our members.

That's why we are embarking on an ambitious project to upgrade our track to a modern, durable 'macadam' surface – similar to a well-maintained road. This upgrade will include vital new drainage to combat the often-challenging North East weather and crisp, clear lane markings.

In a unique nod to our history, we plan to retain the track's existing 'imperial' dimensions. This will not only preserve a piece of athletics heritage but also create a truly distinctive athletics landmark in the North East, perhaps even the entire country!

A revitalised track at Gypsies Green will be transformative. It will provide a safer and faster training environment for all our members, enabling them to perform at their best and reducing the risk of injury. It will empower us to host a wider range of events, drawing more people to our region, inspiring participation in athletics, and allowing our club to flourish and reach even more members of our community.

For me personally, South Shields Harriers has been a constant source of strength and support through life's ups and downs. I've witnessed first-hand the incredible spirit and dedication within our club, despite the limitations of our current facilities.

The people of South Shields and the passionate members of this club deserve facilities that will not only honour our rich history but also propel athletics in our region into a bright and successful future for generations to come.

We believe that by upgrading our track, we are not just resurfacing a piece of land; we are laying the foundations for future champions, strengthening our community, and reigniting the flame of athletics in South Shields.