The Coal Line - Solo Ultra

For years the fabled black diamond fuelled the local economy and took the north east from a poor outpost of England to a regional powerhouse that lit the fire of the industrial revolution. The saying “taking coals to Newcastle” was a pun based on the prevalence of the fuel in the area. The precious cargo was dug up in countless mines across the region and transported to the rivers which were teaming with boats on their travels. One of the main lines used in this transportation was the track from Crawleyside Bank all the way the the Staithes on the Tyne. It’s a marvel of engineering in a time before computers. Nowadays it’s known as the Derwent Walk and the Waskerley Way and forms part of the C2C route for riders and is a very popular walking track.

Take part in this 41 mile ultra on this historic trail where you can run it entirely socially distanced from others whilst also being part of a race. It’s quite simple, pick up your tracker from Domestique cafe and when you are ready to have a go you just switch it on and go – any day in February you wish. The tracker will click you through the start point, register when you have reached the half way point and then register again when you get back to the finish. This is an out and back route. You’ll get instructions on how to turn the device on and off. When you are done you then drop off the device at a cafe near the finish called The Domestique and pick up a free sandwich or salad along, drink of your choice and a t-shirt.  As part of the entry you agree to have a support team who will look after you on the day as we cannot be out on the course interacting (as much a we’d love to).

There will be an interactive map open for all of February. On here you can track who is running and when. Only the first attempt counts so you need to pick your time wisely. Look for that spot when the weather Gods are on your side. As this is a solo run you are entirely solo and must cater for this when you make your attempt. You will need to have a support team who can resupply you with as much food and water as you wish and look after you on the safety front.

You have the option of making a donation to North of Tyne Mountain Rescue Team who are receiving very little in funds in recent times.

For more information, please see the event website at https://coldbrew.events/the-coal-line/.