Countdown To Record Liverpool Half

22 MAR2011

Liverpool's big running year - the marathon returns to the city on October 9 - is set to start in style on Sunday with a record turnout for the half marathon. 7,500 have signed up for the race and entries are now closed and there are no entries on the day. An increased prize pot - male and female winners receive £400 plus trophy and there are prizes down to fifth place and in 8 age categories - will be welcomed by the top runners.

The rest of the field will enjoy a flat, scenic route that starts at the Queens Wharf side of the Arena and Convention Centre and heads passed the Anglican Cathedral (short incline here) and the Princes Road Synagogue before a loop round Princes Park. There now follows a 4 mile section around and through Sefton Park - a great location for spectators - before a run passed Otterspool Park and down to the promenade. Runners will be able to enjoy great views of the river as they head back to the docks and the finish.

Race organiser Alan Rothwell told northernrunninguide.com: "This is a great start to 2011 for running in Liverpool; we're 2,000 up on entries for the half marathon from last year. I'm now keeping my fingers crossed for decent weather on the day. I'm not too bothered if it's cool or there is rain but I'm hoping it's not windy so runners can enjoy the last few miles along the promenade."

Alan continued: "My big tip for runners is to get along early - aim for 8.00am and avoid the heavy traffic that will face late arrivals. Early birds will get a chance to relax, have a stress-free warm-up and a good stretch pre-race. We're inviting runners to give us their comments on video at the start area so come over and give us your thoughts."

Remember entries for the Liverpool Half Marathon are closed but there are still places available for the RunLiverpool Marathon on October 9 - details at the event website.