Wirral Life October 2016 | Page 94

BTR WIRRAL HALF MARATHON More than 2,000 runners took part in a hat-trick of race events across Wirral. Runners from across the region descended on Wirral to take part in races BTR Wirral Half Marathon and 10K, organised by Hoylake-based organisers BTR in parks, on the beach and along the coastline. Named as Event Of The Year 2015 at the Wirral Tourism Awards, the BTR Wirral Half Marathon and 10K started at Birkenhead Park, before a picturesque route took runners along the Wirral coastline to Fort Perch Rock, before finishing at The Dips in New Brighton. The half marathon runners continue along to Leasowe before all returning to finish at New Brighton. More than 300 runners also took on the second annual Whistle Stop Tour Of Wirral – a 26-mile three race challenge across three days, sponsored by Heswall-based Creation PT. The Wirral tour event consisted of a fast five-mile race at Arrowe Park followed by a challenging eight miles 94 wirrallife.com multi-terrain race along Thurstaston beach and the Wirral Way. The third race in the series was the Wirral Half Marathon. BTR Race Director Alan Rothwell commented: “What an incredible weekend of running across Wirral with so many impressive performances across all three races. We’re extremely lucky to have such stunning scenery on our doorstep, and Wirral provides the perfect setting for a diverse range of terrains to really challenge our runners. From first time runners to those chasing personal best times, you can never under estimate the determination and elation of our participants, they really are an inspiration. Congratulations to each and every runner who took part this weekend, as well as the spectators and volunteers who all play a vital role with their support.” Entries for the Whistle Stop Tour Of Wirral 2017 are now open. Full details can be found at www.btrliverpool.com