The land has subsequently been reclaimed into a country park of woodland, lakes with a series of mingling paths which makes for a pleasant trail run.
Wigan Harriers held there annual trail run on the 1st June, at the Springview Community Centre on the outskirts of Wigan. 250 runners gathered for an 11 o'clock start on a perfect morning of sunshine and light winds. After a short briefing, we set of on our way into the country park, what was evident, was that the heat was going to take it's toll; it was hot! I felt I was struggling more than normal, possibly the heat, or maybe the narrow shingle paths were more draining than I thought, either way I managed to count down the kilometres, and hold a reasonable pace.
The finishing line couldn't come soon enough as far as I was concerned, and I was able to put in a bit of a sprint finish over the last 200 metres and overtake 2 runners. I finished 41st out of 250 runners, in a time of 42 minutes 38 secs, which was not to bad all things considered.
Most races have finishing medals or tee shirts, this race however gave 'pie and mushy peas' to all its competitors, very welcome considering I'd had no breakfast, it was also a good way making the event a bit more sociable afterwards, so fellow runners could swap tales of there race.
Would I do the race again? probably not. But it was cheap (£7), friendly, well organised
and the post race grub was good and was also a good day out.
For more information visit the website. A map of the route can be found here.
Tony T.