A new event brought extra energy to New Year’s Eve celebrations in the centre of Newcastle. The first HogmanHOWAY 5K, sponsored by Develop North PLC, and organised by Events of the North, in partnership with the North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and Newcastle City Council, saw almost 2,000 people of all ages run together on closed roads around the city. Starting and finishing at the Civic Centre, the route took in many local landmarks, and offered a new spectacle for revellers who were in Newcastle to see out the year.
Promoted as the ideal New Year’s Eve event for keen runners of every generation and ability, the HogmanHOWAY 5K attracted a wide range of participants from around the region, and further afield. The event began with an elite race on a special three-lap course that offered plenty of excellent vantage points for spectators. A generous prize fund attracted some of the North East and UK’s best athletes, including several who have represented their country. There was local success in the elite men’s race, with Scott Beattie of Morpeth Harriers taking the win in a time of 13 minutes and 59 seconds. Up and coming Eritrean and Birchfield Harrier Aron Gebremariam claimed second place in 14:17, with James Gormley of City of Sheffield and Dearne AC third in 14:27. Izzy Fry of Newbury won the elite women’s race in 15:48, followed by Verity Ockenden of Swansea Harriers in 16:03, just ahead of Lucy Jones of Herne Hill Harriers in 16:04.
The elite race was followed by a mass start for the HogmanHOWAY 5K runners. Experienced club athletes were joined by fun runners and novices, including some who had taken on the challenge in order to start early with their new year’s resolution to get fit. The route was flat and fast, with many runners clocking personal bests as they raced their way through the city’s iconic locations, taking in the festive lights, and a loop around the Northumbria University campus, one of the event’s key event partners. A lot of participants were raising funds for worthy causes, such as the event’s official charity partner, The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, part of Newcastle Hospitals Charity.
Event founder Steve Cram comments: “There was already a great party atmosphere in Newcastle, and the Develop North HogmanHOWAY 5K added energy and excitement to that. We had a great response to this new event for the region and I’m convinced that it can grow to be a major feature of New Year’s Eve in the city for years to come. Similar events are held around the world in iconic locations and it would be great to add HogmanHOWAY to that list as we know how much the people of the North East love to run and have a party!
“Staging the HogmanHOWAY 5K took a lot of hard work and coordination and we’re really grateful to Develop North, Mayor Kim McGuinness and the North East Combined Authority, Newcastle City Council, Northumbria University, Start Fitness and all of our volunteers for making it possible. I hope that everyone agrees that this was a positive way to wave goodbye to this year and get on the front foot for 2026!”
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, said: “What an incredible way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Newcastle – our region showcasing its renown community spirit and party atmosphere, and living up to our reputation as a host of world class events.
“Energy, inclusivity, and pride – a wonderful way to end the year and show what makes our region so special.
“Thank you to everyone who made it happen, from the organisers and volunteers to the runners themselves. This is just the beginning for our Region of Sport plans, and 2026 promises to be an exciting year with plenty events for residents to look forward to.”
Ian McElroy, chief executive Tier One Capital, and director of Develop North, said: “The inaugural HogmanHOWAY 5K was a fantastic success and a brilliant way to bring people together to welcome in the New Year. It was inspiring to see so many runners of all ages and abilities taking part and enjoying the energy and excitement of the city.
“We’re proud to have supported an event that celebrates Newcastle in such a positive, inclusive and active way, and which reflects the confidence, momentum and sense of community that continues to define the North East. Congratulations to everyone involved in delivering such a memorable landmark event.”