Red Squirrel 10K

Southport Strollers Running Club, in association with Natural England, are excited to bring you the opportunity to race through the Ainsdale National Nature Reserve. All money raised (once costs are covered) will be donated to the Southport Stronger Together charity. 

The reserve is owned by Natural England who are responsible for managing this unique habitat. The sand dunes and pinewoods is home to numerous creatures, from newts, toads and sand lizards, to deer and you may even spot a red squirrel! 

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.

• 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. Bib numbers and tags will be handed out on the day.
• The course measures circa 10.3K and subject to alteration / reroute due to adverse weather or conditions under foot. 
• You will encounter hazards such as tree roots, branches, mud, uneven and soft ground. It is your responsibility to navigate the course safely 
• 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 the finish.
• The course will be well marshalled with temporary signage to mark the route. 

Note: this event will be licensed by the Trail Running Association (licence pending) and held under UK Athletics Rules.
Age restriction for this event is 18 years and over (on 6th April 2025)

For full details of the race terms, travel arrangements and facilities etc. please visit 'Red Squirrel 10K' website.

Cancellation / Refund Policy:

Sometimes you enter a race and for whatever reason, you are not able to attend. As we approach the race day we incur costs, so we have devised the following fair and simple refund policy:

• Cancellation up to and including 30th March 2025 refund minus £4.00 admin fee.
• After 30th March 2025 we are unable to offer a refund, 

You can also transfer your entry to another runner, using the on-line entry system up to 30th March 2025. Transferring is simple and all transfers must be done by you through this Nifty Entries website.

This race takes place in early Spring and mostly within woods close to the coast. It will only be cancelled on the day due to bad weather which results in the course being declared unsafe to run by the Race Director.

In the unlikely event we do have to cancel the race due to unforeseen circumstances, we will consider if a partial refund can be made, once our incurred costs have been taken into account. All proceeds from the event go to support local charities and community groups and the continued running of the Red Squirrel 10K.