This was my first time visiting Manchester. I love the city! I spent one night in Manchester for the second running of Xtra Mile Events' half marathon (who also organise the Manchester Marathon in April). The race started in the Trafford area of Manchester and headed down Chester Road (A56) to Sale then returning via residential areas back to Trafford. The course was mostly flat with few inclines when going over bridges but has good potential for fast times. The spectator support along the course was fantastic especially in the residential areas and during the last two miles. The refreshment stations were well stocked with bottles of water. The race village was based in the Old Trafford cricket ground and was extremely well organised. There was a bag drop available but I didn't use it since my hotel was close by. The race was chip timed which included participants receiving texts with their finish times. Course photographers were present along the Chester Road and at the race village. The goodie bags included a great finishers medal, finishers t-shirt, foil blanket, water and a protein bar. 

This was a great event in a great city and I would recommend that all runners add it to their race portfolio.