A lapped marathon. 3+ miles out and 3+ miles back along the promenade, with the river Mersey to keep you company. It was pretty chilly and there was a bit of a wind holding me back as I made the return leg of each lap. It's pretty exposed, so bear that in mind, along with the time of year if planning to do this race.

A no thrills race maybe, but the people were excellent, warm and supportive. From the organisers to the fellow runners and the other brave souls who were just out for a walk. All entrance money goes to charity, and it was a nice way to finish the year.

Straightforward to get to, and nearby free parking on an industrial estate.

Liverbird Marathon was a real experience.

Event took place on New Years Eve/ New Years Day with the option of a marathon on one or both days.

Pre-race information was straight to the point and honest.

This was a very low-key, no frills, very basic but friendly marathon.

Entry was gained by making a charity donation directly to a JustGiving page.

Race numbers were collection on the day.

The start line was as basic as it could possibly be with runners gathering by a red hat.

Course was a flat, out and back (x4) along the banks of the river Mersey.

It is not the most inspiring course but it is what it is.

West coast at this time of the year is notoriously windy so I expected the worse. On this particular day the weather wasn't too bad.

Water/feed station was at the start/end of each out and back.

It contained cupped water, jelly babies little snacks - perfectly adiquate.

There were no offical toilets but there was a pub on route for runners to use.

Marshals as always did a brilliant job.

Local support was minimal but nature of the course meant runners were able to offer encouragement as they passed one another.

Race times were recorded manually but were very accurate.

It tallied perfectly with my Garmin.

Finishers were rewarded with a lovely medal but nothing else.

In summary -

It's fair to say Liverbird Marathon is no frills, without the razzmatazz of it's more illustrious rivals.

What you do get is an honest race with good atmosphere with all profits going to charity. 

The course can be repetative but it is flat and on a good day would be a fast marathon.

Would I recommend this race? Yes I would but just be prepared for a basic event.

I'd like to once again thank the marshals for a good day.