IT’S just under two weeks until runners from across the world descend on Liverpool to take part in one of the city’s largest annual sporting events.
More than 5,000 runners will come together on the start-line at Pier Head Liverpool on Sunday, 2 April, for the Vitality Liverpool Half Marathon 2017.
Described by organisers as the North West’s premier road race, the 13.1-mile challenge attracts runners from across the UK and overseas.
The grandstand start and finish line area on the city’s stunning UNESCO World Heritage Waterfront provides an iconic backdrop to one of the region’s most established race events – this is the race’s 24th consecutive year.
The race starts at 9am and is part of the national Vitality Run Series – it is the only event in the series in the North of England. This is Liverpool’s third year of a sponsorship agreement with Vitality.
BTR Race Director Alan Rothwell said: “The Vitality Liverpool Half Marathon officially kick-starts another exciting year of running for BTR Liverpool. It’s the biggest road race in the BTR portfolio and a real highlight, so we cannot wait to get 2017 off the ground with the North West’s premier road race.
“First introduced to the race calendar in 1994, it still continues to have a strong domestic and international draw 24 years on. Many of our regular runners tell us that this was their very first half marathon race, so it’s great to welcome back familiar faces each year and see them running alongside newcomers starting out on their running journey.
“Entries for the half marathon are still open so come and join us for a fantastic day. Planning is already well underway for the 2018 event – our milestone 25th silver anniversary celebration race.”
The Vitality Run Series brings together eight of the UK’s most exciting running events to provide all runners, irrespective of ability, to take on their next challenge and be inspired to reach their own personal goals.
Vitality CEO Neville Koopowitz added: “With just two weeks until the Vitality Liverpool Half Marathon, I want to thank all those who have registered to run and all those currently working hard to ensure it will be a fantastic race. It promises to be a great day for runners and supporters alike.”
Hot favourite to take top honours in the half marathon is Liverpool Harrier Dejene Gezimu, who swept the board of BTR races last year. Gezimu took first place in 2016, narrowly missing out on setting a new course record – so this time he is back and goes into the race on good form.
Entries are still open for the half marathon. All finishers receive a bespoke medal, commemorative T-shirt and goody bag.
Register online at www.btrliverpool.com
