Manchester is known for its incredible community spirit, and the heartwarming sense of togetherness it exudes.
It’s a city that truly embraces camaraderie, and nothing brings the community together quite like the beloved Great Manchester Run.
Scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 26, this year’s event features a brilliant city centre 10k and half marathon. It’s your chance to experience the truly incredible atmosphere, and run alongside some of the world’s most incredible athletes – so don’t miss the opportunity to get involved. The Great Manchester Run has been hailed as the best running event in the city, thanks to the millions of pounds it raises for a growing number of charities year after year, and because it was born as a legacy of the Commonwealth Games.
Starting on Portland Street, runners will pass some of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks and experience the incredible local support all along the route. Both the 10k and half marathon take in city highlights including Old Trafford, the Imperial War Museum at Salford
Quays and The Lowry – meanwhile, half marathon runners make up the miles heading out to the Etihad, before the routes combine for a grandstand finish on Deansgate.
More than 99% of runners say they’d recommend this brilliant experience to a friend, and it’s clear to see why. From the rocking music zones to the charity cheering squads, and the amazing people of Manchester lining the streets – the atmosphere and spirit is Manchester through and through.
The post-event celebrations continue with friends and loved ones in the Après Zone, with plenty of local food and drink venues around to help you refuel.
Whether you’re just beginning your running journey, or conquering your 50th half marathon, it’s a run for everyone, of all ages and abilities. So, if your motivation is to hit a fitness goal, to do something incredible for charity, to hear thousands of strangers cheering you on or simply have fun in a vibrant and welcoming city, take your place on the start line and experience it all for yourself.
It’s not all about the adults though, the popular junior and mini events take place on Saturday, May 25 at the Etihad. The junior (ages 9-15) and mini (ages 3-8) events give kids the chance to take centre stage – starting on the Manchester Regional Arena track and looping around the Etihad stadium. Minis take on a 1.6km dash and juniors a 2.5km challenge, before a grandstand finish with spectators cheering our future running stars over the line. With high-fives, roaring crowd support and special medals for the finishers, the kids get to enjoy the big event experience.
Manchester comes alive on Great Manchester Run weekend, and you can be part of the action. Find out more and enter at greatrun.org/manchester.
