Long And Winding Road To Liverpool

23 JUN2011

Liverpool's first marathon in 20 years is attracting runners from all over the world and with around 3 and a half months until race day on October 9, the event is set to be a 12,000 sell-out. Organisers are reporting entries from Switzerland, Belgium, Austria, France, Spain and Poland and also from the Middle-East.

Furthest travelled are likely to be Elisabeth Speller and Shae Baxter - both women are from Victoria in Australia although they've entered the race independently. Elisabeth lives in the Dandenong Ranges one hour east of Melbourne, while Shae is resident in the city.

Elisabeth told northernrunningguide.com: "My son (who is currently living in Liverpool for a year) told me about the marathon and I realised it was on at the perfect time for me to come and visit him (and other family and friends). The route takes in some special places from my childhood, especially Sefton and Princes parks.

While Shae said: "Liverpool has always been special to me from an early age and I have always been fascinated that my grandfather was born in such a faraway place. I just think it's an incredible city. It has character, charm, identity and it's just a great place to be. The people are friendly and warm and it's simply a beautiful, architectural city."

Race organiser Alan Rothwell told northernrunningguide.com: "The response to the new event has been fantastic. We've had enquiries from the four corners of the globe and we're looking forward to entertaining a big international field on October 9."

There are still a few places available for the 2011 RunLiverpool marathon. Go to the event website to sign up for the big event.