The 42nd running of the Ken Jefferson Memorial Open Farringdon Cross-Country Races once again lived up to its reputation as one of the North East’s premier early-season fixtures. Athletes from across the region descended on the fast, spectator-friendly course, with racing ranging from spirited Under-11 contests to high-quality senior battles.
U11 – Young Talent Shines
The youngest athletes lit up the morning with the Under-11 boys’ race. Edward Duff (North Shields Poly) set the pace, holding off a determined challenge from Oscar Paxton (Sunderland Harriers). Sebastian Brown (Durham City Harriers) and Theo Barker (Allerton Juniors) ensured the medals were tightly fought, while Alex Fielding (Blyth Running Club) completed a competitive top five.
U13 – Hardy and Hellewell Lead the Way
The Under-13 races highlighted emerging stars. Henry Hardy (Heaton Harriers) powered through to claim the boys’ title, chased by Theo Paxton (Sunderland Harriers). In the girls’ field, Lucy Hellewell (Darlington Harriers) delivered a commanding win, while Chester-le-Street’s Max Pearson impressed with another strong showing for the boys.
U15 – Pearson Strikes for Wallsend
In the Under-15 boys’ race, Kasper Pearson (Wallsend Harriers) stole the spotlight with a brilliant run. He edged ahead of Mason Gaylor (Morpeth Harriers) and Alastair Johnston (Blyth Running Club) in a contest brimming with quality. Jacob McCoy (Elswick Harriers) and Henry Engelhart (Durham City Harriers) completed the top five, reinforcing the depth of the field.
U17 – Cook Leads Gateshead Charge
The Under-17 race brought a mix of tactical racing and outright speed. Alfie Cook (Gateshead Harriers) judged his effort perfectly to secure the win. Darlington Harriers packed well with Tomas Hoole and William Hart both inside the top four, while George Bryce (Blyth Running Club) and William Haswell (Sunderland Harriers) added further quality to the race.
Senior Women – Birtley Dominate
In the senior women’s race, Birtley AC confirmed their dominance with Abby Codling, Amber Leigh, and Lydia Turner combining for a decisive team victory. Sunderland Harriers kept the pressure on, led by Grace Carroll and Danielle Coulson, but Birtley’s strength in depth proved too strong on the day.
Senior Men – A Club Battle to Remember
The senior men’s race brought the day to a dramatic close. Birtley AC fielded a powerful trio in George Beevers, Lewis McConnell, and Adrian Bailes, setting a blistering early tempo. But Tyne Bridge Harriers responded, with Michael Hedley and Tim Charteris pushing the pace and ensuring the team battle went right to the line. The roars from the Farringdon crowd carried the athletes home in a fitting finale to a day of outstanding cross-country racing.
A Fitting Tribute
As the sun set on Farringdon, the 2025 edition of the Ken Jefferson Memorial Open reaffirmed why this event has stood the test of time. It was a day of passion, pride, and performance — a fitting tribute to the sport, the region, and the memory of Ken Jefferson.