The Race for Life 3k returns to Herrington Country Park in Sunderland on Saturday 27 June 2026, offering residents an opportunity to support Cancer Research UK in its ongoing mission to fund life-saving studies. The event begins at 11:00am and is open to participants of all ages and abilities who wish to walk, jog, or run the course at their own pace.
The route through the park consists of both tarmac and gravel paths with some slight undulation. As a non-competitive event, there is no pressure to finish within a specific time, allowing families and first-timers to participate comfortably. Entry for the event is £14.99 for adults aged 16 and over, and £10.00 for children, with a minimum fundraising target of £50 per participant. Residents interested in joining can use the promotional code FLASH30 to receive a 30 percent discount on entry fees, provided they register before the offer ends on 24 May 2026.
Organisers have introduced several accessibility features to ensure the event is inclusive. These include Sunflower wristbands available at the enquiries marquee, event managers trained as Dementia Friends, and British Sign Language stage content accessible through a quick response code. The event is supported by headline sponsor Standard Life, which is part of the Phoenix Group.
Community participation is particularly significant in this region, as the North East has historically seen some of the highest cancer incidence rates in England, with approximately 19,500 people diagnosed each year. In 2023, over 1,700 runners took part in the Sunderland event, raising an estimated £191,000. These funds contribute to the charity’s broader efforts, which saw £403 million spent on research during the 2024/25 period.
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