The PUMA Stockport 10, a welcoming event for runners of all abilities, takes place on Sunday 11 December at 10.00 am at Woodbank Stadium in Woodbank Park, Offerton, the home of Stockport Harriers. Voted the North of England’s most popular ten-mile road race by readers of Runner’s World magazine, this year’s race will support local charity St Ann’s Hospice.
Not only does the PUMA Stockport 10 offer an undulating and enjoyable route through town and country, it is also renowned for its friendly and supportive atmosphere. Last year’s race attracted 800 entrants. Presenting the prizes at this year’s race will be Chris Davies, MEP for North West England, and Tony Audenshaw, who plays Bob Hope in Emmerdale – both keen runners.
This year, Stockport Harriers will also make a significant donation to St Ann’s Hospice. St Ann’s Hospice is 40 years old this year and it is also the centenary year of Stockport Harriers. The hospice offers special, unique care to around 3,000 patients every year who are affected by cancer and non-cancer life limiting illnesses. The care is free of charge, but St Ann’s Hospice has to raise £16,000 every day so specialised staff can provide the highest quality care. If any individual runners would like to raise additional funds for the hospice through sponsorship, please email Amanda Brown on abrown@sah.org.uk.
Entry forms, online entry details and further information can be found at www.stockportharriers.com. Alternatively, you can call race organiser Neil Thomson on 07702 367316. This very popular race always books up in advance, so runners are advised to enter early. Entry costs £14.00 or £12.00 for anyone affiliated to a running club.
All finishers will receive a hi-tec T shirt. There will be prizes for the first ten male and female finishers and all veteran categories as well as team awards. Some fantastic spot prizes will also be given out on the day. Photographers will be present around the course and at the finish area.
“The race is always popular and we are famous for our friendly marshals who have smiles and words of support for everyone,” says organiser Neil Thomson. “Spectators are also welcome to come and watch the runners.”
There are toilets, changing rooms and a supervised baggage area at the track. Everyone will receive a warm welcome at the clubhouse tuck shop where hot and cold drinks and hot snacks will be available.
An independent Runner’s World poll of previous entrants found that 97% would run this race again. Last year’s runners praised its “friendly and positive atmosphere” and “top class organisation.” Runner’s World readers also voted the PUMA Stockport 10 as the North of England’s most popular ten-mile road race.
Anyone who would like to do some quality training runs before the big event is welcome to come along to the free 5k Woodbank parkruns at the Stockport Harriers track at 9.00 am every Saturday morning. Participants need to register in advance at www.parkrun.org.uk/woodbank. The club also welcomes new members and offers regular training sessions with experienced coaches.
So whether you’re an experienced club runner or enjoy running for fun, the PUMA Stockport 10 is the event for you.
Congratulations to the winners: Matt Barnes and Olivia Bush!