Runners turned out in droves to take part in the 27th annual BTR Liverpool Skyline Half Marathon and Road Race at the weekend, despite the ongoing coronavirus crisis.
Almost 2,500 participants seemed unbothered by the pandemic scare, coming together for the 13.1 mile run and the 10 mile road race, which both started and finished at the iconic Pier Head.
Runners were able to take part virtually from all over the world if they couldn’t make it physically, with 200 participants coming from locations including Germany, Isle of Man and Jersey.
BTR Race Director, Alan Rothwell, said: “It is a very challenging and unprecedented time.
“We followed advice and guidance about coronavirus from Government, Public Health England, the World Health Organisation, and our medical resource providers.
“We will always be governed by the very best medical advice to ensure the health and safety of our participants is paramount at all times.”
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Having started in 1994, the race now sees multiple groups take part, including the local Penny Lane Striders, whose member, Joanne Harrison ,was the first female finisher of the road race, completing it in just over an hour.
Charlotte Mason from City Of York AC was the first female to finish the half marathon, recording a time of one hour 21 minutes 52 seconds.
Alistair Rutherford of Liverpool Harriers AC won the BTR Liverpool Skyline Half Marathon, crossing the finish line in one hour, nine minutes, and 51 seconds.
Sweden’s Alexander Söderberg of Spårvägen FK won the 10 mile road race, completing it in 54 minutes 54 seconds.
Arriva North West offered participants free bus travel on marathon day, supporting BTR in their quest to become more sustainable and environmentally friendly. BTR is also phasing out single use plastics at its events.
The date has already been set for next year’s half marathon and road race and it will be held on March 21st 2021.