One of the biggest running events of the city-borough will be making its return later this year.
The AJ Bell Great Manchester Run 2025, which comprises both a 10k and a half marathon, takes in the city’s highlights and iconic landmarks alongside its route – including the likes of Old Trafford, Deansgate and The Lowry.
Established in 2003, it is one of biggest of its kind across Europe and has also been declared as Manchester’s ‘original’ running event. Each year, the Run attracts more than 30,000 participants and 100,000 spectators.
This year, the Great Manchester Run will take place on Sunday, May 18. As in previous years, the event will begin on Portland Street – with runners then taking slightly-tweaked routes based on whether they are doing the 10k or the half-marathon.
For the 2024 event, it was Vincent Ngetich and Gotytom Gebreslase with times of 27:25 and 30:32 who became victorious on the 10km podium. For the half-marathon, it was James Westlake, with 01:06:34, and Eleanor Baker, with 01:14:49, who came first.
The Great Manchester Run is now one of biggest of running events across Europe and the UK
(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)
Organisers behind the Great Manchester Run said the event was extremely popular and sold out in advance last year – with people advised to enter as early as possible.
Eilish McColgan, Great Run ambassador, said of the 2025 event: “To everyone thinking about taking part in the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run, whether you’re a new runner, returning to fitness or a seasoned half marathoner – my advice is to sign up NOW.
“Having a goal to work towards is hugely motivating and will give you that push to train. Let 2025 be the year you find your greatness in Manchester!”
This year, there will also be some pre-run events taking place including Junior and Mini races on the day before. On Saturday, May 17, juniors (aged 9-15) and mini (ages 3-8) events will see younger athletes take on 2.5km or 1.6m dashes at the Etihad Stadium – with special medals being handed out for the finishers.
Details on how to enter the Great Manchester Run 2025 can be found here.