So, how's your January going? It's that wonderful time of the year when we set resolutions for the 12 months ahead - if the motivation's fading already, why not sign up for an event to work towards?

There are plenty of opportunities for you to take on a challenge in the coming months, and support the North East Autism Society in the process. Why not enter an event as a target for yourself to keep you motivated? Whether you fancy a run, walk or cycle, there's plenty going on around the region for you to take part in and smash your new year's goals.

By teaming your training with taking sponsorship, you can help to make a real difference to the lives of autistic people throughout the North-east. We've collated a few of the big events coming up this year below, including the welcome return of an iconic route from City to Sea...

Sunderland 10k
Sunday 8 May

After last year's great success on Wearside, Team NEAS will be back for the Sunderland 10k, which will snake through the city centre before dropping onto the seafront to Roker Park and back for a big finish by Keel Square. Join us for this brilliant event, which also has 5k and half marathon distances available over the weekend - so there's a race for everyone! To enter, head to the race website and then contact us to let us know you're on board.
Entry Link: https://sunderlandcity10k.com/ 

Hadrian's Wall Trek
Friday 24 - Sunday 26 June

If you'd prefer a challenge at a slower pace than a run, why not a walking challenge? Trek along Hadrian's Wall, of the most historic and iconic landmarks in the United Kingdom, to support North East Autism Society! We've teamed up with a number of regional Autism charities from across the UK to bring you this amazing challenge - trekking a 25 mile (41km) long stretch of this piece of history, right in our own back yard.
Link: https://www.ne-as.org.uk/Event/hadrianswalltrek

Great North 10k
Sunday 3 July

The perfect warm up for the Great North Run! Starting and finishing at Gateshead International Stadium, this run takes in the iconic Newcastle Gateshead Quayside, passing the Baltic, Sage Theatre and the seven iconic bridges over the Tyne. Once you've conquered the iconic hill climb, dubbed the 'Slog on the Tyne' at the 9km mark, you'll enter the stadium and finish on the track like countless athletes before you. To enter, head to the race website and then contact us to let us know you're on board.
Entry Link: https://www.greatrun.org/events/great-north-10k/

Great North Run
Sunday 11 September

The general entry ballot for the world's biggest half marathon is now open and you can enter for your chance at making the start line here: https://www.greatrun.org/events/great-north-run/. If you're successful, simply let us know and we'll welcome you to Team NEAS, where you'll receive a free Going for Gold running vest, a fundraising pack filled with fundraising and training hints and tips and access to our space in the charity village after the race in South Shields.

Don't want to leave your entry to chance? We have guaranteed entry tokens available that will allow you to skip the ballot and secure your place on the start line. These cost £50 per place and we ask that you raise £400 in sponsorship for NEAS - you can sign up by clicking here: https://www.ne-as.org.uk/Event/greatnorthrun2022 

Great Run Solo
Anytime

Choose your own adventure! Whether it's 7 miles in 7 days, or a 28 day challenge, the Great Run Company has plenty of options for you to choose from and to complete at a date and time that suits you. You'll receive a running vest, support and advice from NEAS, plus a medal to commemorate your efforts. To enter, choose your challenge from the Great Run website and then contact us to let us know you're on board.
Link: https://www.greatrun.org/virtual-running/distance-challenge/