A tough mixed terrain course including tarmac, gravel trail, grass and mud was made more treacherous after heavy morning rainfall.
The course layout was modified from previous events meant it was back loaded with two steep hills that got increasingly slippy as the races unfolded.
Adrian Bailes (Birtley AC), Dan Garbutt (Durham City), Conrad Franks (Gateshead Harriers), Liam Taylor (Sunderland Harriers) head off along the riverside track on the opening lap.
Michelle Avery (Sunderland Harriers) approaching the grassy downhill bank on the opening lap of the senior women race.
