This post updated 27 March 2026
The North East Youth Development League (NEYDL) is a series of four athletics fixtures where juniors compete against other regional clubs in track and field events (like a mini Olympics!).
They take place from April – July at different venues in the North East and are fun and friendly events for juniors to further their running and athletic development. And, it’s completely free!
Juniors compete in their age and gender group (Under 14/16/18 girls and boys).
Under 14 – aged 12 or 13 on the 31st August 2026. (Year group 7 and 8)
Under 16 – aged 14 or 15 on the 31st August 2026. (Year group 9 and 10)
Under 18 – aged 16 or 17 on the 31st August 2026. (Year group 11 and 12)
While juniors are encouraged to compete in all fixtures, they don’t have to be available for each one.
Juniors will be able to choose which track and field events they would like to compete in up to a maximum of three per fixture.
Events for all age groups: 100m; 200m; 800m; 1500m; sprint hurdles; Long Jump; High jump; Javelin; Shot Putt; Discus; Pole Vault; Hammer.
Plus: U16 300m; U18 400m; U16/U18 Triple Jump.
There are also relay events (4 legs of 100m) in age / gender groupings.
It is a sociable spectator event, and all are welcome to watch, free of charge.
Where and when do the 2026 fixtures take place?
Sunday 19 April: Whitley Bay (Churchill Athletics Track, Hartley Avenue, Whitley Bay NE26 3NT).
Sunday 17 May: Shildon (Shildon Sunnydale Leisure Centre, Middridge Lane, Shildon, DL4 2EP)
Sunday 21 June: Whitley Bay (Churchill Athletics Track, Hartley Avenue, Whitley Bay NE26 3NT).
Sunday 19 July: Shildon (Shildon Sunnydale Leisure Centre, Middridge Lane, Shildon, DL4 2EP)
There is parking close to both venues.
What kit does my junior need? What else should we bring?
Juniors who have been registered (see below) will receive two race numbers (that need to be pinned on their front and back of their club vest) at the first event they attend. They will need to bring BOTH numbers to every event they attend.
They MUST wear a TBH running vest. Other than that they just need clothes suitable for running. They can wear track spikes but most (certainly the younger ones) wear trainers. And don’t forget safety pins for their numbers.
Bring enough drinks and snacks as there is usually no substantial food or drink available at the venues.
Be prepared for wet and / or sunny weather because you may not always be under cover. A waterproof, hat, suncream are advised.
My junior is interested in competing: what should I do?
Speak to junior coach and team manager Sinead who will be able to tell you more and register your junior.
Further information about the league is available here: Junior Fixtures
TBH Junior records are available here: https://www.tynebridgeharriers.com/juniors/junior-records/
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