Report by Josie:
A Special Legacy – 26 Lakes, Meres and Waters Challenge
Some running challenges carry a little more meaning than others, and this one was certainly special for three Lostock AC members who supported Rob Green in completing the 26 Lakes, Meres and Waters Challenge at the weekend.
The challenge has a very special connection to Lostock AC. It was first completed in 1981 by the late Leo Pollard, who was the club’s Honorary President until his passing. Forty-five years later, it was Leo’s grandson Rob who set out to follow in his footsteps.
The Achille Ratti Challenge involves visiting all 26 lakes, meres and waters of the Lake District in one continuous run, with runners only stopping to replenish food, water and swap their support crew. Rob became just the 39th person to complete the challenge.
Rob’s support crew included three Lostock AC members. His brother-in-law, Gaz Foulkes, supported him on leg four from Coniston to Windermere, running alongside Rob into the night. Rob spoke of all the wildlife they encountered during the dark hours.
Tony Marlow joined Rob for the final two legs from Hartsop to the finish at Overwater. Tony was instrumental in bringing attention back to this challenge after many years and knows only too well what it takes, having completed it himself in 2019 as the seventh person to do so. He was accompanied by fellow Lostocker Josie Greenhalgh, who has also completed the challenge in 2020.
Rob faced some brutal conditions during the first 12 hours, battling through torrential rain and strong winds. Thankfully, the weather finally began to ease as Gaz’s shift began and darkness fell.
At the break of dawn, Tony and Josie welcomed Rob and joined him for the last 28 miles in glorious sunshine. The three Lostockers were together for the final stretch, witnessing his sheer determination and endurance as he dug deep to complete the incredible 103-mile challenge in 29 hours and 17 minutes. Many of his family were there at Overwater to see him touch the water.
To be there at the finish was particularly poignant. Leo was the first person to complete the challenge, and now, 45 years later, his grandson has followed in his footsteps. For Rob, and for everyone who supported him, it was a remarkable achievement and a fitting continuation of a very special piece of Achille Ratti and Lostock AC history.
