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.

Bolton Parkrun George Iveson 28:56 Rachel Walker 33:11 Guernsey Parkrun Ian Burns 29:18 Nobles Parkrun Linda Hardman 39:56 Worden Parkrun Tony Marlow 22:37 Rachel Hancock 24:42 (1st in age category and Worden PB)
Race report by Jo: Our 6th Parkrun Championships fixture took us to our very own Haigh Hall, where 28 Lostockers raced around thick mud that felt more like January than June. Haigh being Haigh, the route gave us its usual mix of hills, more hills, and that one section where you’re convinced the ground is ... Parkrun Championship Haigh Hall
Race report by Josie: On Saturday, I travelled to the beautiful village of Buttermere in the Western Lake District to run The Buttermere Sailbeck Fell Race. A tough 15km (9.3mi)/ 1,315m (4314ft) mountain horseshoe over two distinct ridgelines. Although a relatively short fell race (for me), a lot of elevation is packed into the distance ... Buttermere Sailbeck Fell Race 2026