Black and Asian runners in the North East have spoken of experiencing racist abuse and unwanted stares while jogging, with some stating they sometimes fear for their safety. These accounts follow running coach Emma Kirk-Odunubi's report of racial abuse at the Great North Run last week.
A Black man from Gateshead, who wished to remain anonymous due to fears of further abuse, said he was told to "go back to your country" by someone on a bike while running with friends. He also reported that racist insults are sometimes shouted at members of his running club when they gather.
A Muslim woman who wears a hijab, also opting for anonymity due to safety concerns, described "highs and lows" since she began running outdoors in Newcastle four years ago. She stated she was often stared at initially and sometimes heard comments made under people's breath. As a result, she restricts her runs to known routes, avoids certain city areas, and never runs in the early morning or dark.
Baba Suryawanshi, from Sunderland Strollers running club, noted that while his club is at least 90% white, he has not personally experienced racism while running in Sunderland. Despite the reported experiences, all three runners encouraged more people from ethnic minorities to run in the region, citing the confidence it provides.