By Steve Houghton

BOLTON’S Karl Darcy got his 2016 road-racing off to a successful start at the Hunters 10K in Preston.

Despite briefly sparring with Southport Waterloo’s Matthew Thompson (34mins 08secs, eventual second), he quickly settled down into his usual good rhythm to lead from start to finish.

The winner’s trophy came courtesy of 33:26, marking a return to form after illness befell the speedster throughout last year’s cross-country season.

The race, formerly the Welcome Tavern 10K, also saw Chris Povey, reliable as ever, in ninth of the 240 field with 37:16 (third M40).

Dom Gavin debuted in the blue vest after switching from Lostock and promptly smashed his sub-40 aim with 39:24 (28th). The trio made it a happy hunting ground as they collected the first male team prize too.

Elsewhere, Cherry Collison clocked 46:58 in the Garstang 10K (186th).

* The annual Bolton 10K race, hosted by Bolton United Harriers on Sunday, April 24, offers an ‘early bird’ £1 discount for entries received before January 31, with standard entry costing £11 for those affiliated to a running club, or £13 for unaffiliated. Runners interested in taking part should go to the event website at www.bolton10k.org for more information.