I'm not the usual kind of "athlete" supported by Sport Newcastle. I was therefore very grateful and, indeed, flattered when they became one of my kit sponsors. By having the Sport Newcastle logo on my kit not only did the 2 charities benefit financially from the deal but I had a respected local brand emblazoned on the right hand side of my chest during the run across the USA. It's clearly visible on my favourite image of the entire run below.
In the their words - "Sport Newcastle are a voluntary organisation that have been working in Newcastle for over forty years. Their aim is to encourage the development of sport in the City by offering funding opportunities to men, women and children seeking to realise their sporting dream. Whether backing community projects or local clubs, elite international athletes or individuals of regional repute, we try to promote success through sport.
All of their funding is generated through sponsorship and events, the main fundraiser is the Sport Newcastle Annual Dinner staged at Newcastle’s Civic Centre in March each year. This event is attended by the city’s sporting heroes past, present and future and culminating in the presentation of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Year award. Some of the biggest names in North East sport have received the award over the years including Jonny Wilkinson, Kevin Keegan, Paul Gascoigne, Glen McCrory and most recently Kevin Nolan.
They currently operate a Sports Scholarship scheme in partnership with local companies and individuals which allows eleven talented local athletes receive sponsorship to help them achieve their sporting ambitions. These include Olympic hopeful athletes Ryan McLeod and Lauren Dewdney, Swimmer Jessica Thielman, Gymnast Grace Imeson, Judo Player Louise Little and Basketball Player and Newcastle Eagle Ross Wilson. In addition to the scholarship scheme individual grant applications are considered four times a year by a committee of Trustees.
Sport Newcastle are run by a committee of volunteers working under chairman Alan Younger. If you are able to support Sport Newcastle in any way please contact Malcolm Dix 07718 448057 or (0191) 267 6342 or visit the website www.sportnewcastle.org.uk".
Thanks to Sport Newcastle for their support of Run Geordie Run and then 2 charities.
