Member Article

Sun Shines for successful BTR Mersey Tunnel 10K

The sun shone on 2,800 runners who took part in Sunday’s BTR Mersey Tunnel 10K (8 June).

This was the ninth annual event of its kind, attracting local and regional runners; those in fancy dress running for charity; and runners who had travelled from across the country.

Overseas runners from Malaysia and Colorado, America, also took part. The event’s most senior competitor on the day was 91-year-old Eddie Mountford, from Wirral, who completed the course in a credible 1 hour 33 minutes.

This year’s event took on a slightly revised route, starting in Blackstock Street in Liverpool City Centre, taking runners into the Kingsway Wallasey Tunnel.

They then ran along the Wirral waterfront from Seacombe, past the Fort Perch Rock landmark and Marine Lake, completing the race in a new finish area on Ian Fraser Walk in New Brighton.

The overall event was won by Salford Harrier Tarus Elly with a time of 31:16. The first female home was Rachael Burns from Liverpool Harriers in 37:56.

BTR Race Director Alan Rothwell commented:

“We’re delighted with the 2014 event. Perfect weather conditions, a fantastic turn-out of 2,800 runners, revised course, and a new and improved finish area all made the ninth annual BTR Mersey Tunnel 10K a huge success.

“The new finish area at New Brighton worked extremely well, giving the runners a real sense of achievement as they headed towards the finish line, while also providing a brilliant area for spectators to gather and cheer on the runners. The support and co-operation of Wirral Council in BTR organising and staging the event is very much appreciated.

“The Tunnel 10K continues to be a favourite race for many runners, so we have to say a big thank you to Mersey Tunnels who allow us to use the Kingsway Tunnel to host such a special and unique event.

“Special mention must also go to our volunteers and marshalls who play such a vital role on race day. See you in 2015 for our 10th anniversary event.”

Wirral Council’s Sports Development Team and golf professionals attended the event, hosting golf taster sessions to promote The Open Championship, which returns to Hoylake’s Royal Liverpool Golf Club in July.

Councillor Pat Hackett, Wirral Council Cabinet Member for the Economy, said:

“We are delighted to work with BTR who regularly choose Wirral as the backdrop for some of its key annual events. New Brighton continues to evolve and develop as a key destination for visitors, so we were thrilled to welcome 2,800 runners to the borough, as well as a large number of spectators, to enjoy our coast and showcase what we have to offer.”

Next up in BTR’s race portfolio is the Tour Of Merseyside, a six-race challenge over seven days, covering 52 miles. The event features races in Southport, Thurstaston, Walton, Hale Village, Knowsley, and New Brighton.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Erica Dillon .