ATHLETIC clubs will be vying for a special £500 prize in tomorrow's inaugural Sunderland 10K.

The Athletic Clubs Challenge will be contested by teams of five - three men, one woman and one under-15 in the 3K junior event - and the top prize, to help pay for training and development - will be decided on cumulative times. The runners-up will receive £200 and the third placed club £100.

Former triple world record-holder Steve Cram, who is helping to organise the race, which takes the place of the Great North 10K, which is moving to Gateshead, said: "The Athletic Club Challenge is a great way for local runners and their clubs to enjoy an exciting team event and race for a substantial cash prize.

"We have had team entries from a number of clubs and we hope as many people as possible will get involved and enjoy a brilliant 10K."

The course, which starts and finishes at the Stadium of Light, passes Mowbray Park, the National Glass Centre, Roker Marina and Roker Park on the sea front, is fairly flat with no testing climbs and fast times are anticipated.

Entries are open until raceday and clubs and individuals can register on www.sunderlandcity10k. com, twitter.com/sunderland 10k or by telephoning 0191 5255747.

A group of elite athletes have been invited to compete in two miles races before the main event, includinmg former World Student Games champion and Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Antony Whiteman. Local runners include Gateshead Harrier Chris Parr and Darlington's up-and-coming middles-distance runner Lewis Loses.

The programme is: 9am Girls school mile; 9.15 boys school mile; 9.30 Sunderland Echo 3K junior run; 10.00 Elite women's mile; 10.10 Elite men's mile; 10.20 Armed Service Day Motorcycle Cavalcade; 10.30 Sunderland City 10K