2009 Comments
Mark Ward, New Balance’s UK & Ireland Country Manager, said, “It is an honour to be associated with the first ever English Half Marathon and New Balance is proud to be a part of the Warrington community.
We would like to thank all the residents for their support and all the volunteers and runners that have made this event so wonderful.”
Comments received by Warrington Worldwide: “A special thanks to those who turned out to spectate and support those competing – a good crowd and atmosphere makes a race particularly for the vast majority who are fun runners or supporting charities. A special thanks to the two drum bands on route who provided a fantastic lift at two crucial points on the course – clearly one of the highlights of the day – take a well deserved bow!!!”
“Fantastic event and a big well done to the organisers. We were there supporting family and the atmosphere at the start and particularly at the end was amazing. The weather was kind to us at the end of a race was more like a carnival, absolutely fantastic day and thank you to the forward thinking Warrington Council for bringing such a professional event to our town.”
Runner Bruce commented, “Totally agree, first class event from start to finish. Huge congratulations to all involved excellent day. Top mention to the drummers too!!”
John from North Carolina had this to say, “Great Event! Great Course! Great Weather (once we started)! Worth flying from North Carolina for…”
Runner Graham, clearly speechless after his exertions, said “Gobsmacked ! – Well organised and a fantastic course – pat on back for all … And the support from the residents of Warrington from as good if not better than the GNR …”
Runner X responded on Facebook after the event with “A special thanks to those who turned out to spectate and support those competing – a good crowd and atmosphere makes a race particularly for the vast majority who are fun runners or supporting charities. A special thanks to the two drum bands on route who provided a fantastic lift at two crucial points on the course – clearly one of the highlights of the day – take a well deserved bow!!!”
Runner Adrian from Northern Ireland had this to say, “We ran your 1st run on Sunday and all I want to say is well done and thanks to all the people of Warrington and on the course for their support from kids to older it helped and made or run easier. Coming from N.Ireland we hope you would have us back in 2010. Well done all.
Runner Yvette commented, “Just wanted to say what a day I had today. It was my first half marathon and thought the day was very well organized. It was tough, but now I have the bug.”
Runner Rob had this to say, “Generally enjoyed my first half marathon even though my foot was killing me from mile 3! The locals were brilliant in their support especially out on the quieter sections of the course. Found a few bits of the course such as the contra flow through Appleton Thorn and the path through the park to be slightly narrow but overall it was a nice run.”
“Kicked-It” passed on this comment, “This is an excellent event that looks certain to grow in size and stature each year. A few minor glitches were to be expected this year and the highly professional team behind the event will have them ironed out by next year. Elite, enthusiast and charity running beginner were all equally catered for an made to feel valued. Really enjoyed this and cant recommend it highly enough!”
Runner Jason completed his first half marathon at Warrington and said, “I have been on a high all week, my 1st half 2 hrs 14 secs. i was doing 9 mile pace all the way and decied to go for it at mile 11, when I was on 1 hr and 38 minutes. Big mistake ended up doing last miles 10.30 mile pace. Thank you to all the support on route.”
Runner Jo was also suitably enthused, “A really good event, with very enthusiastic and vocal support, even the marshalls clapping and cheering runners on. Not sure why Runners World rated this as flat – there were a few cheeky climbs in there I’m sure! Good overall, and would certainly do it again!”
Runner Benjamin said, “A very enjoyable and extremely well organized event. Glad to have been there for the inaugural English Half Marathon. I have no doubt this will become a very BIG race in future years. Any improvements possible? No!! This is a must for next year. Thanks to all involved.”
“Sap sips” had this to say, “Had a great day. Organisation was second to none, a huge thank you to all the marshalls, and water station people, who supported us all. The people of Warrington too were fantastic, coming out to cheer us on. I for one will be making the trip next year.”
DG also added his postive remarks, “Excellent race – makes you proud to be from Warrington (for once!) Great route – they found the scenic side of Warrington!! My time was down to undertraining! Plenty of water and Lucozade. Excellent support, especially in the villages – supporters kept making me smile and lifting my spirits. Two drumming bands on the route as well. Finish was great on the track and goody bag, t-shirt, medal and free massages at the end were definite value for money. For a first race it was fantastic organisation.”
