So how are the retirement plans going Alan?

Well, that’s very kind of you to ask and just by way of an update they are going very well thank you.

Some of you may remember that around this time last year I was hinting at retirement as I was wondering how I could ever move away from the BTR race events.

Well, with a bit of forward planning and a lot of discussion I am pleased to say that as we embark upon a new year of delivering fantastic events across Merseyside I can reveal that I’m in a great position to take a first step back from front line responsibility – as is Yvonne.

Over the last 12 months you may have heard about the emerging BTR / Run For All relationship which is now fully formed and in place for 2026.

I’ve a had many meetings with the team at Run For All and I’ve got every faith in them to take the BTR portfolio to another level in the coming years.

They will be bringing a massive amount of experience and professionalism to Merseyside and that will be evident from the very first event in the 2026 sporting calendar which is the Liverpool Half Marathon.

Between the two companies we now have an impressive 30 or so events and a massive 125,000 participants every year.

The new regime means that both Yvonne and I can take a first step back from front line responsibility and play more specific roles in delivering the BTR portfolio which will I’ve no doubt will lead to ongoing improvements and innovation driven by the Run For All team.

2026 will certainly usher in a year of change for me personally with my changing role but I’m convinced the only change runners will see is bigger and better events on Merseyside.

I would like to thank each and every one of you who has taken part in a BTR race or fun run dating back to 1994 when it all started. I’ve enjoyed it immensely over the last 30 years and it is important to me that the BTR legacy continues to grow and thrive on Merseyside.

I would also point out that I’m not going anywhere for some time yet and plan to stick around (along with my trusty bike) so you will still see me at the BTR events for the next couple of years at least.

If you are not familiar with the Run For All events portfolio then might I suggest you take a look at their impressive portfolio of stunning events and I’m pretty sure there will be something there that will be of interest to you over the next 12 months.

So can I just wish everyone a peaceful, injury free, PB packed 2026.

Yours in sport and friendship,

Alan and Yvonne.