Lostock AC delivered a strong showing at the first ever Bolton Half Marathon and 10K organised by Epic Events, with runners taking on a challenging new course that showcased some of the town’s most recognisable landmarks.
Both races started in Queen’s Park, sending runners out on a route that mixed steady climbs, fast descents and cobbles. The half marathon consisted of 3 laps of the course that wound through Bolton Town Centre and the park, leaving runners to complete the tough hill at Park Road on three occasions. The 10K followed a shorter but equally undulating path, consisting of 1 ½ laps. Support along the route was strong, with local residents lining the pavements to cheer runners through the tougher sections.
Lostock AC fielded a determined group in the debut half marathon, with impressive performances across the board:
In the ½ marathon Paul E was the first Lostocker to cross the finish line and a superb run that saw him break the 90‑minute barrier on a demanding course, to finish 1:29:21. He was followed by Paul L in 1:54:17, Rachel S in 2:01:36 who is edging close to the two‑hour mark. Rachel H ran with friends crossing the finish line in 2:05:31and George secured a ½ marathon PB in 2:06:06.
The 10K saw standout achievements from the Lostock AC trio, Jo completed the race in 51:09, crossing the line as 8th female, shortly followed by Heather who had a brilliant performance finishing in 52:35, topping her age group and finishing inside the top 10 women overall. Jenna also had an amazing run, finishing in 54:20.

There were some outstanding results at Parkrun. At Bolton Parkrun, Lostockers celebrated Heather Soden’s 25th Parkrun. Soden finished in 28:16 securing 2nd in her age category. Andy Kirks had an awesome run, finishing in 22:57 for a Bolton PB. Other Bolton results include: Lee Burns 28:51, Bev Atherton-McKenna 29:00, Dougie Ainsworth 30:26 and Lynda Hardman ... Heather’s 25th Parkrun
Race report by Greg: Today me and Janet travelled to Lancaster to take part in the Golden Balls run. There’s a Ten mile and 20mile option. 2 laps out and back for the 20. It’s a flat fast route along the river Lune using the old railway lines . Janet chose this as its great ... Golden Balls 20 Mile Run
Race report by Josie; Whilst on holiday in the Langdale, I took the opportunity to do The Hartsop Hop Fell Race. A challenging 12-mile (19.5 km) race through some of the wildest and most spectacular terrain in the Lake District. Organised by Clayton-le-Moors Harriers, the race was first run last year and has quickly become ... Hartsop Hop Fell Race (22/8/26)