The Manchester Half is a 13.1 mile challenge that takes place every year, starting and finishing by Old Trafford, and is one of the biggest in the region with over 15,000 runners. It’s an event that aims to truly represent all the wonderful people of Manchester, and celebrate their achievements.
Since its launch in 2016 it has received rave reviews from participants, thanks to its professional delivery, flat route and amazing support from crowds around the course.
Come and experience the UK’s flattest major half marathon course - measured and certified to IAAF/AIMS standards.
Incredible closed-road route including new city centre section.
Share with the world who you are, what motivates you and express what or who you love.
Welcoming runners of all abilities.
No major hills, massive PB potential featuring a vibrant city centre section.
Quality medal for every finisher.
Event details are on the Manchester Half Marathon listing.
Charity entries are not open yet. Sign up for our newsletter to be the first to hear when charity places are available.
Every year thousands of runners take part in this event and fundraise for charity. While this is hugely beneficial to the charities it gives the runner advantages too, from supporting a cause that is close to your heart to securing a place in this highly sought-after event and much more.
Committing to raising money for charity gives you motivation to get outside and run, plus all of these extras which will elevate your event experience:
Charities know that raising money is all part of the challenge, which is why they provide advice, branded materials and a personalised online fundraising page to help the donations roll in. Think videos for social media, branded imagery and testimonials from previous runners.
Whether this is your first run or your fifth, you'll need to train for it! You'll receive an in-depth training plan with guidance, plus many charities have access to expert coaches and elite runners too, who can provide exclusive tips for your race preparation. Experts include Runningwithus, Full Potential and Olympic champs.
When you show up on the day, people need to be able to see clearly that you're supporting a charity. Most charities will give you a branded and personalised t-shirt or vest to run in on the big day, and often a training top too.
When you're partway through your run and your energy is flagging, what you need is a boost from cheering spectators to keep you moving. Many charities set up a cheer station along the route, keeping an eye out for you to send up a huge cheer as you run past!
Refreshments and an indulgent post-race sports massage are often provided by charities for their runners. This is the perfect way to recover alongside other people who have run for that cause.
You won't be the only person running for that charity, so it's well worth meeting other runners through the charity's invite-only social media pages! You can organise to meet up for training runs, chat with the charity's expert coaches and share tips and stories with each other to keep the motivation levels running high.
Charities buy places in this event, then give them to runners who agree to raise money for the charity – these are called charity places. Charity places are a great way to support a good cause and get a place in the event, especially if general entries are closed.
Running a half marathon and charity fundraising go hand-in-hand - which charity will you run for?
