This was my second year completing a race at this event, but first time completing the half marathon di.stance.
The course is a long the Leeds & Liverpool Canal and easy to navigate (minus a few slipy bits, but not unsafe). My biggest concern is the lack of marshals on long stretches of the course. If somebody gets into trouble they'd be relient on other runners having a phone on them and knowing exactly where on the course they are. It would be beneficial perhaps to have a few more marshals at key points along the route.
I really love how race organisers went plastic free (AMAZING) and would not hand out cups/bottles of water to runners along the route. They did sell reusable collapsable cups at registration, and this information was sent to runners on a number of occassions.
I ran this race with a group of friends who were running it as part of our Christmas celebrations. I love how many runners are in fancy dress for it. It adds a real festive atmosphere to it.
The cakes at the end are a real bonus, and I love that they don't hand out the goody bag in plastic bags.
There are multiple distances, and it is a good day out. The canal is beautiful and you often forget you're in the city. The race organisers really seem to focus on the runners, and are incredibly friendly. It's great value for money and highly recommend it to anybody.