Tears, screams and everything in between: Thousands of runners take to the streets for Manchester Half marathon

It’s that time of year again where trainers are tied, energy gel is shoved into pockets and headphones are secured. The Manchester Half marathon has returned to the streets of Manchester as 24,000 runners attempt to tackle the 13.1 mile route in support of charities and organisations.

The race saw people set off from Old Trafford, heading through Hulme, the city centre, Stretford, Sale, Sale Moor, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Whalley Range and ending right back where it all began.

Supporters were encouraged to get involved in various cheer zones dotted around the route, and large screens live streamed the event onto social media for those unable to attend.

READ MORE:45 brilliant pictures as runners take part in the 2024 Manchester Half Marathon

At the start line first to set off was the elite wheelchair athletes. The atmosphere was a-buzz as the starting pistol sounded by David Brown as the crowd roared to life.

Following this, participants set off in roughly 10-minute intervals, depending on their allocated wave colour, until around 10.39am. As each wave made its way to the starting line, the crowd grew. Tension, nerves, excitement filled the air as each wave counted down.

Amongst them was urological surgeon Aziz Gulamhusein who was raising essential funds for The Christie Charity.

Speaking of the impact the charity has on individuals and families affected by cancer, he said: “Every day, we have the privilege of seeing the incredible work The Christie Charity does to support our patients—not only through funding cutting-edge research and treatments but also by providing emotional and practical support to patients and their families during what is often the most difficult time of their lives.

"We wanted to do more than just talk about the difference the Charity makes; we wanted to take action, to give something back. Running the half marathon together as a team feels like the perfect way to do that. It’s a physical challenge for us, but it pales in comparison to the challenges our patients face every day. We’re proud to do our bit to ensure the vital work of The Christie Charity continues."

Aziz, aged 40, from Heaton Moor, ran alongside a team of surgeons; Omer Aziz, Panos Christopoulos, Thomas Lee, Jeremy Oates, Paul Sutton, Jonathan Wild, Lorena Martin Roman, and David Mowatt.

Coming in first place was Jack Rowe with an astounding time of 01:02:12. Following shortly behind him in second place was Jacob Allen with an equally impressive time of 01:02:43. And in third place was Alexander Lepretre with a time of 01:04:14.

Lucy Reid was the first woman across the finish line with an incredible time of 01:09:13.

And whilst the start line was a bundle of nervous energy, the finish line was something else entirely.

There were intense emotions with some runners bursting into tears, others screaming out in exhilaration, and many more doubling over in relief. The amazing support of the medics meant that each and every participant was given the utmost care and support as they tried to move on shaky legs.

Family and friends waited with open arms, sugary snacks and endless bottles of water as they greeted the runners. Unwavering smiles broke out as they crossed the line, with a pat on the back from other fellow runners.

With a feeling similar to that of an airport at Christmas, the Manchester Half once again showed us what the true feeling of a community is all about.