Bank Holiday Monday 26 May 2003
Great Manchester Run 2003 | |
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The run passes Old Trafford |
| | It seems like everyone in Manchester is in training for the city's first ever mass participation 10km run. The Great Manchester Run gets under way this May Bank Holiday (May 26).
See our 10km training schedule>>> |
| | | Thousands of charity and fun runners - along with some elite athletes - are expected to take part in the first ever Great Manchester Run. Planned big screens will broadcast the event across the City, bands will line the route to entertain runners and spectators and celebrities will don their running shoes.
What is it?
Britain's newest mass participation event - a road race over 10km (6.25 miles). The event was launched in February by Brendan Foster, managing director of the race organiser, Nova International - the company behind the Great North Run. The race is also part of the ten day Festival Europa - a ten day festival of street theatre, music and sporting events. Two days later, Old Trafford plays host to the Champions League Final.
The route:
The run starts on Corporation St at Exchange Square in view of Urbis, passes Albert Square and then heads via Peter St, Deansgate and Chester Rd onto the Bridgewater Way into Trafford. The course turns onto The Wharfside Promenade with views over to the Salford Quays and the Lowry, turns at the Imperial War Museum and then takes you past Old Trafford – where the UEFA Champions League trophy will be on display as you run past – and then back into the city centre, turning onto Whitworth Street and then heading into G-Mex via the rear entrance.
Who can take part?
Anyone aged 15 or over on the day of the race. Ten thousand people are expected to enter. Wheelchair athletes are welcome. Closing date for entries is Friday 16 May.
You will be given a race number, official T-shirt, and souvenir medal - if you finish!
All runners will also be given a 'Champion Chip' time for their run which will show your time from crossing the start line to crossing the finish. Results can be checked on the official website.
Jonathan Haggart |
Featured runners
We want to feature a number of people doing the run and we want you to get in touch.Find out more.
Jonathan Haggart is one of them. Read his story
Young runners
There is also a Junior Great Manchester Run over the shorter distance of 3km. Ages 7 - 14.
Getting in shape:
See Peter Elliott's 10km training schedule >>>
VIP runners and top athletes:
Peter Reid - former Man City player & manager
Sonia O'Sullivan - Olympic Silver medallist over 5,000m
How to enter:
You can enter online at www.greatrun.org. The entry fee is £19. There are a number of conditions of entry. Make sure you read them.
Charities:
Cancer Research UK is the nominated national charity for the event. Kirsty's Appeal Francis House has also been nominated by Manchester City Council for the Great Manchester Run 2003 | | | |
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