Fresh off their Lisbon half marathon exploits just two weeks ago, the dedicated runners of Menapians Athletics Club Wexford were back in action—this time swapping the streets of Portugal for the iconic sporting city of Liverpool. The home of the soon-to-be Premier League champions and one of the world’s most beloved football clubs played host to the team as they laced up for the city’s annual half marathon.
Unlike their Lisbon adventure, where organisational hiccups proved challenging, the Liverpool Half Marathon was a masterclass in organisation. Over 12,000 runners lined up for the event, with Irish participants able to collect their race numbers on the morning of the race from a specially designated tent just meters from the start line.
The race got underway at the historic Albert Dock, with competitors setting off beneath the watchful gaze of the iconic Liver Bird and in the shadow of the legendary Beatles statue. The start-line arrangements were seamless, with pacers clearly visible, ensuring runners could slot into their appropriate sections based on expected finish times.
The opening kilometre was a gentle introduction, a flat stretch along a dual carriageway running parallel to the River Mersey. However, the second kilometre provided an early test of endurance, as runners faced a long and steady climb up Parliament Street. Small talk among competitors quickly faded as lungs and legs were forced into overdrive to conquer the drag—a gruelling ascent that lasted at least a full kilometre.
From there, the course wound its way into the picturesque Princes Park, a spot already familiar to Menapians runners who had taken part in the local parkrun the previous morning. The visit offered an early taste of Liverpool’s famed warmth and wit, with friendly locals striking up conversations unprompted. With its strong Irish connections, the city provided a welcoming atmosphere, and runners found themselves immersed in Scouse charm. The parkrun itself, with nearly 700 participants each week, was a well-oiled machine, orchestrated with military precision. First-timers were given a briefing laced with classic Liverpudlian humour—one joke in particular proving controversial the previous week, though best left unrepeated here!
Back to the half marathon, and the route soon led runners into the vast and beautiful Sefton Park. With its mature tree-lined paths, sprawling green spaces and a lake teeming with wildlife, it evoked memories of Dublin’s Phoenix Park. A quick detour took competitors through Otterspool Park before they hit a scenic seven-kilometre stretch along the Mersey waterfront. The stunning views across to Tranmere and Birkenhead provided the perfect backdrop for this phase of the race.
As the finish line loomed, a final challenge awaited: a section of damp cobblestones that made a sprint finish a risky proposition. However, any difficulty was more than offset by the sheer enthusiasm of the Liverpool crowd. Spectators lined the streets, brandishing witty signs, offering sweets and calling out runners’ names as they read them off race numbers pinned to their chests. The support was electric, driving competitors through to the final stretch.
Crossing the finish line was a moment to savour, with finishers rewarded with a stunning gold medal and commemorative T-shirt—prized mementos of a fantastic event.
For those considering a running tourism trip, Liverpool comes highly recommended. The city offers ample accommodation within walking distance of the start and finish lines and aside from the early climb, the course is largely flat, making it ideal for both seasoned runners and first-timers. The atmosphere along the route was nothing short of exceptional, with live music, passionate locals and a carnival-like mix of fancy-dress runners, from Teletubbies to leprechauns. Many participants took to the course in charity vests, highlighting the community spirit that defines this event.
For Menapians AC, it was another successful overseas outing—one that will undoubtedly leave them looking ahead to their next challenge. Where to next?