Lostock 6-Mile could fold without more support
9:16pm Friday 22nd February 2013 in Sport By Neil Bonnar
THE annual Lostock Six-Mile race could be axed after 31 years.
A decrease in the number of runners entering is mainly responsible for its possible demise.
The race has become a traditional event on Bolton’s athletics calendar over the last three decades.
It goes ahead on Sunday, but organisers at Lostock Athletics Club warn it could be the last.
More than 500 runners took part when it was first held in 1982, as part of the British Aerospace National Championships, but only around 50 have entered this year’s race so far.
The event cannot exist on such dwindling numbers, and only a turnaround in interest will save an event in which England internationals such as Mike Freary, Andy Jones and Helen Clitheroe have competed in the past.
“With decreasing numbers, greater problems with marshalling, managing ever-stricter regulations and safety requirements the future of the event is uncertain,” said Lostock AC chairman John Smith.
“After a run of 31 years it is likely that this will be the last time this very popular race will be on.
“It would be great to see past participants back again for what may be the final curtain; a bumper entry may even bring about a change of heart.”
The race is expected to attract a number of late entrants, and runners can pre-enter on the club’s website, www.lostockac.co.uk, or register on the day at the Barnstormers pub, Lostock Lane, where registration opens at 8am ahead of the race at 10am.
Sponsored by Southerns Interiors, Cranfield Road, the route starts near the Barnstormers, and takes in the A6 via Lostock Lane and Wingates Lane, through Chew Moor to Chorley New Road, down Ox Hey Lane to the finish on Hall Lane.
Ironcially, while interest in their annual race is dwindling, Lostock AC is enjoying an increase in membership and welcomes anyone interested to join them on Wednesday nights at 7pm in the foyer at Horwich Leisure Centre.
For more information on the race or the club, contact Mr Smith on 07757 115359.
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