Red Squirrel 10K

Following the acclaimed success of last year’s race, Southport Strollers Running Club, in association with Natural England, are again excited to give you the opportunity to race through the Ainsdale National Nature Reserve.  All money raised (once costs are covered) will be divided equally between Queenscourt Hospice and Southport Soup Kitchen.

The Reserve is owned by Natural England who are responsible for managing this unique habitat. The dunes support a wide variety of flora and provide a home to numerous creatures: newts, toads, sand lizards, moths, deer and of course the endangered 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. 

• 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 timing tags to be collected on the day from our reception gazebo at the start area.
• The course measures circa 10K and may be 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 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. 
• Due to the nature of the course the following are not permitted: Buggies (pushchairs), Nordic style walking poles, Dogs (Dogs on leads are welcome with spectators).
• This event is licensed by the Trail Running Association. Licence #7322 and held under UK Athletics Rules.

Age restriction for this event is 18 years and over (on 19th April 2026)

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

This year, we are offering you the opportunity to purchase a Tech T-Shirt to commemorate the Red Squirrel 10K 2026.
Please choose this option with your entry, the price is £13.50. This can then be collected from race reception on the day, either before or after the race.
• The cut off date to order T-Shirts is 27th March.

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 27th March 2026 refund minus £4.00 admin fee.
• After 27th March 2026 we are unable to offer a refund, 

You can also transfer your entry to another runner, using the on-line entry system up to 27th March 2026. 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.