Runners hit trail to honour athletics star
RUNNERS are set to take to the streets to honour a man for his enormous contribution to athletics.
Roger Colson, 86, has been involved in sport since the 1940s and has built a huge legacy.
As a young man he was a top runner in the RAF before going on to found Stretford AC, which is now the world famous Trafford AC.
In 1981 Roger co-founded Middleton Running Club which latterly became the Middleton Harriers, a club he is still a member of today.
The following year he helped kick start the boom for ‘fun runs’ by founding the ‘Middleton Moonraker’ road race.
Now runners are set to take part in the The Roger Colson Brownhouse Reservoir 5k trail in Whitworth next week, to honour his huge contribution to running and raise money for charity.
Supporters describe it as ‘a modest tribute to a man who has given so much to the sport and the community.’
Andy O’Sullivan MBE said: “Roger Colson has devoted his life to athletics. He is an incredible man. We in the sport are indebted to him.
“The 5K is a tribute to someone who has done so much for the wider community.”
Following hip surgery, Roger is no longer able to run, but is a life member of Middleton Harriers and is still heavily involved in club life.
He is also a prolific bowler and still plays many times a week.
On the day of the run he is planning to take part in an early bowls match, so he is able to watch runners take part in his race.
The Roger Colson Brownhouse Reservoir 5k trail race will be held at 7pm on Tuesday, May 16, from the Red Lion, Whitworth.
Proceeds will go to Francis House Children’s Hospice in Manchester.
Entry fee is £4 for club runners, £6 for non club runners. Entrants registering on the night will pay an extra £1.
To enter contact Andy O’Sullivan MBE at 40 Crowshaw Drive, Rochdale, OL12 0SR.
Cheques should be made out to ‘Andems Runners RCBR.’
Alternatively visit bookitzone.com/ andrew_o_sullivan