The BTR Wirral 10K race returned on 13 October with a boost in numbers and two new course records being set by the first male and female finishers. Almost 750 runners took part with an increase of over 200 entries on last year. More than 500 of these hailed from Wirral.

The race started and finished on Ian Fraser Walk in New Brighton with the route taking participants past Fort Perch Rock and along the picturesque promenade to Seacombe Ferry, before reaching the half-way 5K turnaround point.

The 10K was won by Matthew Gawne of Altrincham & District AC in a time of 33:52 – setting a new course record in the process. Second place went to Kieran O’Brien of St Helens Striders in 34:34 and third went to Graeme Bruce in 34:46.

First female finisher was Lisa Gawthorne of Vegan Runners UK in a time of 38:07 – also setting a new female course record! Second place was claimed by Francesca Byron of Pensby Runners in 40:13 while third place went to Dianna Mannhart of Warriors Pentathlon AC in 41:19.

BTR Liverpool's Alan Rothwell commented: “What a brilliant race day. Thank you to everyone who took part and those who came out to support. Runners are really enjoying the updated route which we launched last year. It takes in the incredible views along the promenade across to the world-famous Liverpool skyline – but has still retained the advantage of being fast and flat.

“Congratulations to Matthew Gawne and Lisa Gawthorne on setting new male and female course records, fantastic achievements.

“A huge thank you to the volunteer teams who supported BTR and the runners – Birkenhead Park Running Club, Liverpool Running Bugs on the 5K water station, as well as members of the Merseyside running community. We’re always looking for volunteers to lend a hand at events throughout the year.”

The date for next year’s BTR Wirral 10K has been confirmed as Sunday 12 October 2025. You can enter online now.

If you'd like to know more, visit the BTR Liverpool website.

Image: BTR Liverpool