The BTR Mersey Tunnel 10K will return to its traditional April date this weekend (16 April) for the 2023 staging; if you fancy taking on this unique north-west event then hurry and secure your place today as there are still some places available!

The race has taken place every year since 2006, with the exception of 2020 during the pandemic when there was a break of almost two-and-a-half-years between races. Post pandemic, the race returned and was staged in September both in 2021 and 2022, but this year it’s back to spring and will take place one week before London Marathon.

The point-to-point race starts in Liverpool city centre taking runners straight into the Kingsway Tunnel. The route also includes Seacombe Promenade, Fort Perch Rock and Marine Lake, before finishing on Ian Fraser Walk in New Brighton overlooking the River Mersey.

It is the only time throughout the year when people can make their way through the Kingsway Tunnel on foot and run under the River Mersey – making it one of the most unique running events in the country. The race proves popular with runners tapering for the marathon in the capital, those looking for a race with a difference, or others chasing a new 10K personal best.
  
BTR Liverpool Race Director Alan Rothwell explained: “The BTR Mersey Tunnel 10K always attracts new people coming to experience the race for the first time, alongside regulars who just relish the atmosphere and challenge. It’s a unique race and the only time you can go through the Kingsway Tunnel on foot.
 
“It’s great to be back at the traditional spring date. It’s always been regarded as an excellent event for local runners, heading to London the following week, to use the race as a steady taper distance. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the start line on 16 April for another exciting race.

"Don’t forget to join in with the cheers of oggy oggy oggy along the way – especially as you head through the Tunnel.”
 
The race record currently stands at 30:52, set in 2016 by Dejene Gezimu from Liverpool Harriers AC. He also took first place in 2018 and again last year. The female record was set in 2019 by Kirsty Longley from Liverpool Pembroke Sefton Harriers in 36:19. Kirsty broke the record she had previously set in 2017 by knocking a further 30 seconds off her time.

If you'd like to know more, visit the BTR Liverpool website or enter today here.

Image: BTR Liverpool/Paul Francis Cooper