Smiles all around at The Wilmslow Running Festival.

It’s smiles all around at The Wilmslow Running Festival

Following the Covid interruptions and recent years bad weather, this historic race returned to its customary date of March.

Always one for the calendar, and one of the most highly rated races in the UK, first staged in 1984 it is always an event that attracts large numbers…. this year it had 3500 entrants.

The Waters Wilmslow Half Marathon and the Running Bear 10k now form the main attraction, while supported by the “Fun Run” for juniors.

In perfect weather and on the sound of the starters pistol, the runners set off on their journey along the Cheshire lanes to Mobberley and back. As always, the organisers are grateful to the local residents for the fabulous support that they offer, helping to create the wonderful atmosphere for which the race is known. Similarly for the co-operation with road closures.

A handful if runners race to win…others for personal bests, some just to get round, and many run for charity. Breaking with tradition the event teamed up with four smaller Charities: The Booth Centre, Supportability, Francis House, Mind Manchester.

The Wilmslow Running Festival is itself a Charity and working each year with their Charity Partners has raised more than a million pounds.

In the 10k, the first male home was Kristian Watson in 31.56, with Sarah Louise Cumber finishing first lady in 38.57.

Turing to the Half Marathon, GB International Jonny Mellor used the race as his build up to The Manchester Marathon, and potentially the Commonwealth Games, winning in a time of 64.24, with Anna Bracegirdle winning in a time of 73.21.

This year, the 10k also welcomed Wheelchair athlete Stuart Bloor finishing in a time of 37.01.

The race organisers are always grateful to lead sponsor “Waters” together with Nomadic Construction and Running Bear.

Will you be running in March 2023? Entries will soon be open!