I was really looking forward to this race after as I had such an amazing experience during the Manchester Marathon in April 2017. Sure enough, Manchester Half did not dissapoint.
The race village was the exact same as the marathon, and the bag drop was quick and easy. I really liked that it was runners only as it ensures it isn't too busy.
There was a huge UKRunChat & Visor Club meet up before the start of the race, and the running with these guys always promises for an awesome day.
Heading to the start area seemed a bit chaotic as it isn't too wide, and they put toilets in the middle of the start area. With lines for the toilets it createdd a bottle neck when trying to get to the earlier start areas. There were sufficient toilets in the start area, with the added bonus of 'real' toilets in the cricket ground being open, I was a happy runner.
The start areas clear quickly and runners are able to cross the start line quickly without a lot of waiting around.
The race itself is excellent. It is flat and fast with real PB potential (I shaved 56 seconds off mine). The crowd support was amazing and I really enjoyed the different bands/groups playing music for us. It was a real boost out there on the course, especially when it was unexpectedly warm that weekend. There are a few inclines, but nothing major that would I even classify as a 'hill'.
The water stations were great, and I LOVE the fact that they use water bottles with squirty tops. Other races must take note, as it makes it so much easier to get a drink from. I also loved the use of drop stations to help ensure that the route was clear.
There are a few long straights which can be a bit challenging mentally, especially the last straight up to the finish line. You can see the finish line for ages, and it can mess with your head slightly. It did not bother me at all during the Marathon (partially because I think I was so excited I was going to actually finish my first marathon). As long as you're prepared for it, you are absolutely fine and the crowd support at this point in the race is phenomenal.
The medal is awesome (one of my favourites) and I really love the finishers t-shirt. The finishers bag could have had a few more bits in it, but overall it was good. I loved the pint of Erdinger at the end, and was dreaming about it as I pushed on for the finish line.
I pre-ordered the race photos as it was a really good deal. The photo quality wasn't great, but certainly better than most half marathons I've run and I did get a number of photos.
I'd highly recommend this race to anybody looking for a fast, flat and fun race. For me a race is made by the support you get both from spectators and runners. I love meeting up with the UKRunChat community but out on the course so many runners were encouraging eachother to keep on going and congratulating eachother at the finish line.
Manchester Half Marathon won't disappoint, it's a great day out,