Race report by Jo:
The Media City Half Marathon this morning didn’t start off the best for Paul and me. Paul was on a course of antibiotics, and I was single-handedly keeping Sudafed in business. Despite this, just over 2000 runners lined up at the start outside the BBC, ready to tackle the course.
The route took us on a scenic journey, winding around to Eccles before turning back toward Trafford Park. Along the way, we passed some iconic landmarks, including the PG Tips factory, Muller, Kellogg’s, and the Coronation Street studios. We then veered left past the Imperial War Museum, crossing a bridge over the shipping canal, and made our way back to the BBC.
Lap one was completed, and it was time to repeat the whole loop in the cold, gusty winds. But despite the conditions, I managed to power through, finishing first with a time of 1:44:28. Paul crossed the line next with a solid 1:50:40, followed closely by David in 1:54:27. Long run is ticked off for us!

Bolton Parkrun Jay Smith 28:30 Rachel Hancock 36:29 Haigh Woodland Park Antony Sutton 24:37 (2nd in age category) Chris Baker 25:13 Sally McCoy 27:07 (5th female and 1st in age category) Matt Carney 28:40 Lee Burns 29:22 Ian Burns 31:07 (3rd in age category) Jeanette Brandon 31:41 (2nd in age category) Gillian Baker 33:43 Katie ... Gill’s 50th Parkrun – 7 February 2026
Bev was in action at the Murcia Half Marathon in Spain, enjoying perfect racing conditions of sunshine and 18 degrees. Atherton-McKenna completed the race in an amazing 2:01:26, describing the event as a relaxed and enjoyable run filled with smiles and great atmosphere, including memorable entertainment from singing paratroopers.
Bolton Parkrun Rachel Hancock 29:54 Chester Parkrun Carol Ensor 30:20 Haigh Woodland Parkrun (Route B) Andy Laycock 26:26 Chris Baker 29:08 Sally McCoy 29:08 (2nd in age category) Rachel Stevens 29:08 (2nd in age category) Matt Carney 29:52 Jeanette Brandon 30:36 (3rd in age category) Markus Stevens 36:17 Karen Taylor 41:01 Paarl (South Africa) Sheila ... Parkrun Results 31 January 2026