The 2025-26 Season began in bright sunshine on Saturday at Woodbank Park, a venue making a welcome return to the Cross Country scene. The overall turnout was good, on what was a busy sporting weekend for the Green Machines – including Manchester Half Marathon and Withins Skyline Fell Race.
The ladies race saw a good turnout from the Harriers with Helen Mutch starting her season in fine form and leading the pack home from Janine Jordan in second and Fiona Bolton in third. And a big welcome back to Ruth Hare on her return to competitive running.

The Men’s race followed and was led home by Ian Ireland from Dean Clapworthy in his introductory XC race with Alan Garvey in third.