Manchester’s streets pulsed with energy and emotion on Sunday, October 12, 2025, as the city hosted the largest Manchester Half Marathon to date. Breaking all previous records, more than 28,000 runners took to the 13.1-mile course, transforming the city into a vibrant festival of athleticism, charity, and community spirit. The North West’s biggest half marathon, now a staple in the UK’s running calendar, once again proved why it holds such a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
The day began under a crisp, foggy dawn, setting an atmospheric stage for what would become a memorable spectacle. By 8:55 a.m., elite athletes gathered at the starting line near Trafford Town Hall, their breath visible in the cool air as anticipation built among the crowd. The sound of applause and cheers echoed as the first wave surged ahead, marking the official start of the 2025 Manchester Half Marathon.
Organisers had meticulously planned the event, ensuring a smooth experience for runners and supporters. The start and finish lines were strategically placed—runners began their journey near Trafford Town Hall and crossed the finish on Talbot Road, just outside the Lancashire Cricket Club. With bag drop facilities at Gate 5 and Gate 10, volunteers guided participants to the start, ensuring everyone was ready for their challenge.
The course itself was a tour of Manchester’s diverse neighborhoods, weaving through the city centre, Stretford, Trafford Park, Sale, Chorlton-Cum-Hardy, Hulme, and Whalley Range. Thousands of spectators lined the roads, their encouragement a lifeline for runners facing fatigue and self-doubt. Homemade signs—some hilarious, some heartfelt—peppered the route, with messages like “Keep chafing the dream” and “When your legs get tired, run with your heart” capturing the event’s unique blend of grit and good humor.
Among the elite, the men’s race quickly became one for the history books. Joe Wigfield stormed to victory, crossing the finish line in a record time of one hour, two minutes, and two seconds. Jonny Mellor and Omar Ahmed followed closely, securing silver and bronze respectively. In the men’s elite wheelchair race, Sean Frame clinched first place, showcasing the diverse talent that the event attracts each year.
But it wasn’t just the elites making headlines. The Manchester Half Marathon has always been about more than just competition—it’s about stories, causes, and the power of community. Runners set off in waves at ten-minute intervals until around 11 a.m., ensuring a steady stream of participants from first-timers to seasoned veterans, charity fundraisers, and even those in elaborate costumes. The city saw bumblebees, dinosaurs, superheroes, a lobster, and one determined runner in full firefighter gear, all adding a splash of color and fun to the proceedings.
The event’s charitable ambitions were front and center. Organisers aimed to raise a staggering £1.5 million for good causes, with £1.3 million already secured by race day. Over 2,500 runners—roughly 10 percent of participants—ran for charities including Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Research UK, and The Christie. The stories behind their efforts were as inspiring as the race itself. Warren Cusick, for instance, completed the course in two hours, raising £1,200 for The Christie in memory of his step-mum, Sue Cusick. “I got a bit emotional at times,” Warren admitted, “but I got to the end.”
Another moving moment came from 68-year-old Jerry Beyer, who is partially sighted. Guided by his 16-year-old granddaughter, Ella Burgess, Jerry ran in memory of his daughter—Ella’s aunt—who died of cancer five years ago. “They spent millions on her knowing she was going to die,” Jerry shared. “This is our way of paying back.” From Beverley in Yorkshire, 68-year-old Sue Herdsman ran in honor of her friend’s grandson and her partner’s son, raising funds for Candlelighters, a charity supporting children and families affected by cancer.
The race also attracted a host of celebrities, adding extra sparkle to the occasion. British long-distance stars Lily Partridge and Charlotte Purdue, both Puma team members, joined the field, as did a constellation of television personalities. Coronation Street cast members Harriet Bibby, Calum Lill, Channique Sterling-Brown, and Emrhys Cooper were spotted among the runners, along with Molly Smith and Tom Clare from Love Island All Stars, Diane Carson from The Traitors, and Camilla Ainsworth from The Apprentice. Gladiators semi-finalist Aneila Afsar and former footballer, now Sky Sports pundit, Izzy Christiansen also took part, drawing fans and media attention alike.
While some runners chased personal bests, others chased records of a different kind. Four friends—Eddie Evens, Jimmy Gray, Matt Athersmith, and Andrew Cains—captured the crowd’s imagination by setting a new world record for the fastest half marathon completed by a group joined together. Dressed as a giant caterpillar, they finished in an impressive one hour, 14 minutes, and eight seconds, proving that teamwork and a sense of humor can go a long way.
As the morning progressed and the fog cleared, Manchester’s streets came alive with music, laughter, and the relentless pounding of thousands of feet. The finish line on Talbot Road became a scene of jubilation as families and friends greeted exhausted runners with hugs, snacks, and bottles of water. Medals hung proudly around necks, and smiles were everywhere—a testament to the sense of achievement felt by all involved.
Organisers allowed runners three hours from the last starter to complete the course, ensuring that everyone, regardless of pace, could savor their moment of triumph. The day wasn’t just about speed; it was about participation, perseverance, and the collective joy of a city united in celebration.
Looking ahead, the Manchester Half Marathon is already set to return on Sunday, October 4, 2026. Priority entries open at midday on Monday, with general entries following on Tuesday, promising another year of excitement and community spirit.
For now, Manchester can bask in the glow of a record-breaking, heartwarming event that brought together elite athletes, everyday heroes, and supporters from all walks of life. Whether running for a cause, for fun, or for personal achievement, every participant contributed to a day that will be remembered for years to come.
