I've now run the Liverpool Rock n Roll Half Marathon twice (2016 and 2017), and have already pre-entered for 2018. If I manage to stop getting injured, I may even look to upgrade to the Marathon for next year, but we shall see :)

So, in 2016 this was the first ever Half Marathon that I had run, and back in my home town! Part of it may have been the nostalgic element for me, but I thought that the route was really nice. Lots of green leafy areas, interesting buildings to look at, etc - not just full of housing and industrial estates like some other runs I've done.

The event is well organised and marshalled. Runners' bib numbers indicate which starting corral to use, which is a big help in ensuring you're running with people at roughly your pace. There's also a beer token attached to your bib number for when you've finished - love this, although I only wish there was a cider option :)

What makes this event unique is the bands playing at roughly every mile of the course, which gives you a bit of a boost when you're starting to flag! Numerous feed stations, some of which had Lucozade and gels in addition to water, which made a welcome change.

Mostly flat course with a couple of ascents - everyone dreads the Upper Parliament Street climb, but it's really not as bad as everyone makes it out to be. Last few miles is along the Liverpool waterfront. Really nice place to run, but if there's a headwind it can potentially scupper your PB chances.

Some spectator support along the route, but it's a little thin on the ground. However, the support in the last few hundred metres of the race is awesome! And it wouldn't be the Rock n Roll series without mentioning the medals/finishers T-shirts. Hands down, these races have the best bling!