For a first time Half Marathoner this race didn't disappoint.  It was flat (I can't emphasise this enough, it's really really flat), fast and well organised (apart from a small disagreement we had with a parking marshal while trying to get into the prebooked car park we'd paid for). The on course support was brilliant, especially during the second half of my race when it had finally stopped raining (this is Manchester!). The final half mile seemed to go on forever, you can see the finish line after the final turn but it's further away than it looks! The finish itself was easy to negotiate and I soon found my way back to the athlete village to collect the best bling ever and a tshirt that was happily in my size.  Also a well deserved pint of Erdinger.  My only criticism is that the course felt quite boring in places and wouldn't be one to book if you want a pretty route. Having said that I'll be back for this year's race to look for a PB and I can't wait!