Bollington used to be famous for it’s sport and running events. Running and cycling always featured large in the yearly events, and cricket and football teams were feared by their opposing teams.
From the turn of the last century to the 1940’s, runners flocked from far and wide to run the Bollington Mile and the Half Marathon. Local heroes abounded, two of whom were Ronnie Chadwick and Frank Gratton. Frank has just celebrated his 81st birthday.
In order to reinstate the running tradition, Bollington Drop-In Centre decided to hold a Hill Race to coincide with the opening of ‘Drifting through the Past’, the 5th Nostalgia Trail, on 10th July 2005.
The organisers of this first Bollington Nostalgia Hill Race were in fear and trepidation, having never run such an event before, but the race proved to be a great success and is now to be an annual event in the Bollington calendar.
Although the temperature reached 35°, 54 intrepid runners braved the heat to enter the event. Sir Nicholas Winterton MP started them off and remained to present the prizes to the winners at the end of the race.
The route was 7.11 miles, with four strenuous sections and a 1200-foot ascent, but even in the extreme conditions, Jon Chapman, a Bollington resident, completed the course with an amazing winning time of 47.35mins.
Not far behind, the first lady to cross the finishing line was Cecilia Grensley, a veteran from Cheshire Hill Racers, with a time of 50.31.
Much positive feedback was received from the runners about the route and the quality of the marshalling. Next year, constructive comments will be taken on board and water stations will be provided at appropriate points.
Quotes from runners:
‘Congratulate your route planner – it is a magnificent course!’
‘What a sensational run and all credit to you all. Just wish it had been cooler, and how about some water at perhaps Harrop Brow for us slower runners? An all round beautiful experience. Thanks again.’
Bollington Drop-In Centre would like to thank the runners for their support and all the marshalls and volunteers for helping to make the event such a success.
Next year's Bollington Nostalgia Hill Race will be held at 11.00am on Sunday 9th July 2006
