Latest reviews by David

(2015)
"Tunnel Vision"
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management

My first 10k competitive road run and something of a unique experience. The first 3k is through the famous Mersey Tunnel. My dad used to ride through the tunnel on his bike when he was younger but due to pollution levels it's no longer open to pedestrians so it being closed for a road race is something of a bucket list experience.

Starting from Blackstock Street you run straight down into the tunnel which is well lit but increasingly oppressive as you enter the main body. Over 2800 people attended the event but the tunnel is long and wide enough that it you don't feel too claustrophobic. However, I soon found it hot and the oxygen levels are not great. Add to this a long 1k incline and you have a very challenging start to the race!

Coming out of the tunnel into the sunshine is glorious. As I top the steep slip road and make my way down New Brighton promenade I come to the 4k point and the first water station which after a hot and sweaty tunnel I was very glad of. From the 5k point I started to enjoy the run a little bit more. Aside from the odd on up and over slopes the promenade is flat and easy on the foot but the heat surprised me with little in the way of the breeze promised from coming onto the promenade.

A steady pace along the Prom enabled me to finish in 1 hour, 1 minute and 19 seconds. I have done non competitive 10k's in under an hour so I was a little disappointed. However, the Mersey Tunnel is a tough challenge and despite the flat second 5k many were suffering, myself included with leg heaviness. The route was well marked but every kilometre seemed to stretch further and further away and I was very glad to finish and collect my medal and t-shirt.

The Mersey Tunnel 10k is a challenging and unique event that is well organised. My race number was time chipped and my time was available just a couple of hours later. This is the second event I have entered with BTR and I would be happy to do so again.

Login or sign up to leave a comment.