Every year, we bring you Manchester’s original – and best-loved – running event, with a 10k and half-marathon route to choose from. But if you’re signing up for the first time, you might not know *quite* what to expect.
No idea? No problem! Our trusty guide to the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run lists everything you need to look out for on the day. Don’t just settle for a ‘good’ run – make it a Great one!
The ultimate start-line buzz
30,000 runners is a LOT of runners. And all of that energy is pretty powerful as professional athletes and fairweather joggers come together in one place to start their journey. Get ready for an unforgettable, you-had-to-be-there kind of buzz.
Smile, you’re on camera!
Get your best side – and brightest outfit – ready so you stand out on BBC1’s live coverage. Your 15 minutes of fame starts here.
Iconic landmarks
Manchester is the home of football legends and some incredible history. Embrace being a tourist in your own town as you tick off sights like Old Trafford, Salford Quays and Etihad Stadium. Want to get *really* familiar with the route? Take a look here.
Superb supporters
Supporters at the Great Manchester Run – the Mancunian massive, as we like to call them – are some of the loudest and most enthusiastic you’ll ever meet. They’ll keep you motivated with high fives, Jelly Babies, homemade signs and shouts of encouragement.
That inimitable Manchester spirit
You can feel that distinctive Manchester spirit as you make your way through the streets to the start line. There’s also a sense of generosity and perseverance in the thousands of local heroes running for a worthy cause, raising millions of pounds for charity in the process.
Star-spotting
The Great Manchester Run attracts everyone from mayors and politicians to soap and reality TV stars. Keep your eyes peeled – you never know who you might get to snap a selfie with.
A party from start to finish
On event day, the city really lives up to its Madchester reputation. We like to make sure that there’s more than a nod to the musical greats of this city, so expect to hear everything from Take That to the Stone Roses, and Joy Division to The Smiths.
Manchester-exclusive goodies
Your hard-earned medal and finisher t-shirts feature exclusive designs inspired by Manchester’s passion and people. They’re different each year – although we can’t be held responsible if you decide to enter multiple events to expand your collection…
That finish line feeling
This is not just any finish line – this is a Deansgate finish line. It’s hard not to feel like a hero sprinting along one of Manchester best-known streets with supporters shouting your name.
An afterparty like no other
In the Après Run Zone, you’ll find everything you need to keep the celebrations going, from food to drink to live entertainment. Time to go further afield? Manchester has so much to offer – and we’ve got all the recommendations you need without walking too far. Your feet can thank us later!
Find out more about the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run, and sign up, here.
