Junior athletics 2024: what you need to know
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 13/15/17 girls and boys).
Under 13 – aged 11 or 12 on the 31st August 2024. (Year group 6 and 7)
Under 15 – aged 13 or 14 on the 31st August 2024. (Year group 8 and 9)
Under 17 – aged 15 or 16 on the 31st August 2024. (Year group 10 and 11)
While juniors are encouraged to compete in all fixtures, they don’t have to be available for each one.
Tyne Bridge Harriers Juniors will be in a composite team with Heaton Harriers this year.
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 include: 100m; 200m; 800m; 1500m; sprint hurdles; Long Jump; High jump; Javelin; Shot Put; Discus. U15 and above only: 300m; Pole Vault; Hammer. U17 only 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 2024 fixtures take place?
Sunday 21 April: Monkton (54 Dene Terrace, Hebburn, Jarrow, NE32 5NJ)
Sunday 19 May: Shildon (Shildon Sunnydale Leisure Centre, Middridge Lane, Shildon, DL4 2EP)
Sunday 30 June: Morpeth (details TBC)
Sunday 21 July: Shildon (Shildon Sunnydale Leisure Centre, Middridge Lane, Shildon, DL4 2EP)
There is parking at all venues.
A more detailed timetable of events and what to do on the day will be shared nearer the time.
What kit does my junior need? What else should we bring?
Juniors who have been registered (see below) will receive two race numbers (that needs to be worn 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.
We have a set of pre-loved running equipment, including club vests. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact Leyriane from the TBH Juniors organising group.
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?
The club will put out a call to register your junior (s), and the club will pay for their entry.
All juniors are encouraged to attend the training sessions that the coaches are putting on with Heaton Harriers, where they can find out more and try out different track and field events.
This website story from junior Liam Whitelaw gives you a sense of what to expect on the day: “It’s great fun and everybody’s really friendly and supportive” – Why TBH juniors love athletics. – Tyne Bridge Harriers Juniors
Further information about the league is available here: http://www.neydl.website/
Junior records are available here: https://www.tynebridgeharriers.com/juniors/junior-records/
If you have any other questions, speak to a coach at the Wednesday training sessions.
[This post will be regularly updated. Last updated 10/03/2024]
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