The 2023 Manchester Half on Sunday 15th October saw a record 16,500 people take to the streets in bright, dry, and chilly conditions to complete the prestigious 13.1-mile course. Starting and finishing from Old Trafford, the course includes sections through Manchester City Centre, Sale, and Chorlton-cum-Hardy.
First across the line was PUMA athlete Jack Rowe, clocking a new course record time of 1:02:40. Andrew Heyes and Tommy Power took second and third respectively. Also setting a new course record time was female winner Lauren McNeil in 1:10:02. McNeil held off strong challenges from Lauren Howarth and Gemma Astin who completed the podium. Matthew Clarke was crowned wheelchair champion thanks to his time of 58:59.
Encapsulating the spirit of the day was the ‘Express Yourself’ message which was embraced by thousands through their outfits, personalised bibs, and plentiful support on the course. As part of the initiative each finisher was treated to a medal which came in one of 36 possible combinations. The Express Yourself mantra is linked to Manchester becoming widely known as one of the world’s most welcoming and vibrant cities.
Andrew Smith, CEO of organisers Human Race, said “What an incredible day of action. The people of Greater Manchester continue to show why this is the UK’s most welcoming location. It’s no surprise this event is seeing record demand as everybody wants that unforgettable Manchester running experience.”
Huge demand saw the event sell out two months in advance, despite a 50% increase in capacity. Much of the growth is down to increased participation from younger age groups, with the most popular age group now people in their twenties, down from thirties in previous years. There’s also been a large rise in the number of women taking part, with 3,000 more than last year, making up 45% of the field. The increase is especially prominent amongst runners under 30 where female participants now outnumbers men.
After a hugely successful day the Manchester Half is set to return on Sunday 13 October 2024, with a limited number of launch entries released on Monday (16th October) at Noon. All results and further coverage from the event can be found on the official website www.mcrhalf.co.uk
