About 40,000 Take Part in Great Manchester Run

About 40 000 take part in Great – This year’s Great Manchester Run saw an estimated 40,000 participants fill the streets of the city, creating a vibrant atmosphere of energy and camaraderie. The event, which offers both a 10km (6.1 miles) race and a half-marathon course, drew a mix of elite athletes and amateur runners, all united by a shared passion for running. Among the diverse group were members of the Race Across the World series, who used the occasion to honor a former participant who had tragically passed away in a crash near Manchester a year ago.

A Tribute to Sam Gardiner

The memory of Sam Gardiner, a beloved member of the Race Across the World community, was central to this year’s event. His death on 26 May 2025, during a race in the area, inspired a heartfelt tribute from his friends and family. Participants from the current sixth series of the show took to the course, raising funds in his name and celebrating his legacy. Sam’s mother, Jo Gardiner, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support, calling the day “very moving” and sharing that she had already “cried twice” by the time the event began.

“The fact that they are doing this is fantastic,” Jo said during an interview with BBC North West Tonight. “We are this lovely dysfunctional family, and every year we add the next series to the WhatsApp group. It’s lovely to meet some of them properly [today].” She also noted that Sam’s best friend was among the runners, adding a personal touch to the event’s significance.

The Heart of the Event

Sir Brendan Foster, the founder of the Great Manchester Run, emphasized that the true essence of the event lies in its participants. “It’s the people of Manchester and Greater Manchester who make this happen,” he stated. “We organize it, but the city itself and its residents are the soul of the run. The atmosphere is created by them, not by us.” Reflecting on the event’s growth since its inception in 2003, Foster added, “It’s grown and grown and grown, and now we’re at the biggest ever—40,000 participants, and we’re absolutely delighted.”

Foster highlighted the spirit of ordinary people achieving remarkable feats, noting how the runners balance humor, determination, and collective effort. “You’ll feel today the humor, the relaxation, and the effort,” he explained. “But you’ll also see ordinary individuals doing extraordinary things, raising funds for charity, and supporting one another along the way. It’s all about keeping fit while making a difference.”

Charity and Community Impact

The run’s charitable focus was evident in the stories of participants who gave back to their community. Catherine Makinson, a 10km runner from Cannock, Staffordshire, joined the event for the eighth time to support the Alzheimer’s Society. Her motivation stemmed from a personal connection: her mother, who was from Manchester, had lived with the disease for three years before passing away last year. “We want a cure because it could be my future,” Makinson said, underscoring the emotional weight behind her participation.

Meanwhile, Joanna Beswick and Dennis Moran, both educators at the Manchester Hospital School, were running to fund a therapy room at The Leo Kelly School. This initiative supports secondary-age students referred by medical professionals, offering them a vital space for recovery and engagement. “We know, working within the school and the hospital, the impact days like this have,” Moran remarked. “It makes such a big difference for the students and the community.”

Other notable figures joined the fray, including Dame Kelly Holmes, who returned to the starter’s platform for the elite women’s race. The double Olympic champion’s presence added a layer of prestige to the event. Kevin Sinfield, a rugby league star and fundraiser for motor neurone disease (MND), was also set to compete, while Sally Lindsay MBE, an actor and Alzheimer’s Society ambassador, participated in the race. Their involvement reflected the broader reach of the Great Manchester Run, which brings together people from all walks of life.

A Year of Reflection and Action

For the Race Across the World participants, the run was more than a sporting event—it was a chance to reflect on their friend’s life and the journey they had shared. “It’s really important to honor Sam,” said Katie, one of the runners from the current series. “Having Jo, his mum, with us today means a lot. It’s a great opportunity to come together and support her.” The group included siblings Katie and Harrison, as well as Liverpudlian friends Jo and Kush, who were running to raise funds for The Christie Charity. Their efforts highlighted how personal grief can inspire collective action, particularly in the fight against cancer, a cause close to many hearts.

The run’s ability to merge personal stories with community spirit was a recurring theme. As the streets buzzed with activity, the event’s organizers and participants alike celebrated the power of shared goals. Whether it was a family tradition, a charitable mission, or a tribute to a loved one, the 10km and half-marathon courses became a canvas for individual and collective purpose.

Thousands of spectators lined the routes to cheer on the runners, creating a lively and supportive environment. The event’s popularity underscores its role as a cultural touchstone for the region, drawing people from across Manchester and beyond. With its blend of sport, storytelling, and philanthropy, the Great Manchester Run continues to thrive as a symbol of unity and resilience, proving that even in the face of loss, communities can come together to create something meaningful.

For those interested in staying updated, BBC Radio Manchester’s coverage is available on Sounds, while the BBC Manchester team maintains an active presence on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Supporters can also share story ideas via WhatsApp at 0808 100 2230, ensuring the event remains a dynamic and community-driven experience year after year.