Southport Strollers in association with Natural England have unveiled plans for their brand new Red Squirrel 10k race.
The race will take place in Ainsdale Nature Reserve in Ainsdale in Southport this April with numbers limited.
Funds raised through the event will go towards the Southport Stronger Together charity.
The charity, operated by the Community Foundation for Merseyside, in partnership with Sefton Council and Sefton CVS, has created this fundraising appeal for all those affected by the knife attack in Southport on 29th July 2024.
The Red Squirrel 10k race on 6th April 2025 costs £18.50 for non-affiliated runners and £16.50
For England Athletics affiliated runners.
You can enter via the Southport Strollers website here.
The minimum age is 18 years old on race day.
Entries close by 31st March 2025.
A Southport Strollers spokesperson said:
“We are absolutely delighted to announce that entries are now on sale for our inaugural Red Squirrel 10k race!
“This exciting trail race will be held in Ainsdale Nature Reserve on Sunday 6th April 2025 at 10am.
“Tickets are limited to 250 and are already selling fast! We really hope you can join us.”
All money raised (once costs are covered) will be donated to the Southport Stronger Together charity.
Ainsdale Nature Reserve is owned by Natural England which is responsible for managing this unique habitat. The sand dunes support unique flora and provide a home to numerous creatures, from newts, toads, sand lizards and moths, to deer and you may even spot a red squirrel!
You can find out more about the reserve and the aims of Natural England here.
A Southport Strollers spokesperson said:
“The route for the race is both scenic and challenging, we are sure it will appeal to all those who enjoy trail running.
“Our race winds its way through the wooded paths and finishes with a sting in its tail, as we mount the highest dune peak before a final run through the woods to the finish.
“The course is suitable for those who have never contemplated trail running before, or those who are seasoned trail running pros.
“The course would be described as moderately difficult, but suitable for all running abilities. “There is no time limit to complete the course. Trail shoes are advisable as it will be muddy in parts, but it is possible to run this course in sturdy road shoes.”
What to expect on the day
- You will encounter hazards such as tree roots, branches, mud, uneven and soft ground. It is your responsibility to navigate the course safely.
- The course is open to the public and you may encounter walkers with dogs and cyclists. Please be courteous and respectful to all members of the public and fellow runners. We will put appropriate temporary signage to make people aware of the run, however, you should be aware of others and be prepared to give way where appropriate.
- This is a chip timed race. You will be provided with a shoe tag which must be securely fastened to your laces and returned before you leave.
- There will be a bespoke sustainable medal for all finishers.
- Prizes will be awarded for first three Male and Female finishers. Also, age group prizes in the Male and Female Open, V40, V45, V50, V55, V60, V65, V70, V75+ categories (Only one prize per competitor).
- Water stations will be at approximately 5K and at the finish,
- The course will be well marshalled and have temporary signage to mark the route. All signs will be removed at the end of the race.
- It is very important that all runners, spectators and volunteers respect this special habitat by ensuring no litter is dropped. This would jeopardise our opportunity to repeat this event. There will be litter points at the 5K drinks station and at the finish.
- We also request that you don’t carry energy gels or similar on the course, to ensure no litter is accidentally dropped.
- The use of headphones is strongly discouraged. This will enable you to hear the marshals and enjoy the natural environment. If you must use them, they must be bone conduction, open ear types. You will not be permitted to run in over ear, in ear types.
- Dogs are not allowed to accompany you during the race. (Dogs on leads are permitted with spectators)
- Nordic style walking poles are not permitted
This event is licensed by the TRA (Trail Running Association) and held under UK Athletics Rules (Licence pending approval)
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