The Women’s 10K will return to Liverpool on 14 September following its successful revival in 2024. The event will once again take place in the city’s scenic Sefton Park and, for the first time, will feature a 5K option alongside the traditional 10K distance.

Organisers told us: "The addition of the 5K aims to encourage those new to running to take their first steps into organised events. It will be supported by a dedicated Couch to 5K training plan, offering a clear and achievable path for beginners to go from zero to the start line in just nine weeks."

The return of this event builds on Liverpool’s proud legacy in championing women’s running. In the early 1980s, Liverpool City Council emerged as a leader in promoting female participation in distance running. While major events like the London Marathon and the Great North Run had begun attracting large fields dominated by men, women-only races were rare. Only Dublin and Glasgow hosted such events at the time, and both were growing in popularity. Recognising the opportunity, Liverpool launched its own Women’s 10K, which quickly became a local success story.

As the running landscape evolved in the mid-1990s, women increasingly took part in mixed-gender races, feeling more comfortable running alongside men. While this was a positive development, it led to a decline in interest in women-only events. At the same time, changes within Liverpool City Council affected the delivery of local races, and the Women’s 10K quietly disappeared from the city’s calendar. Despite this, women continued to increase their presence at races across the UK.

In recent years, there has been a revival of interest in women-only running events, with cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh once again leading the way. Liverpool has followed suit by reintroducing the Women’s 10K, returning it to its original setting in Sefton Park.

With the 2025 date confirmed, runners of all levels can look forward to another special day of celebration, empowerment and community spirit in the heart of Liverpool.

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

Image: BTR Liverpool