Manchester Marathon Planned For April 2012

24 JUN2011

Marathon fever continues across the north of England with the launch of a new event in Manchester. The first Greater Manchester Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, April 29 and 5,000 runners are expected for the initial event.

The race will start and finish in Longford Park in Stretford and runners will pass city landmarks such as the Old Trafford cricket and football grounds and Dunham Massey Park.

The first marathon to be run in Manchester in over 10 years will take place a week after the 2012 Virgin London marathon and is sure to generate considerable interest across the north-west. The new race is being organised by Xtra Mile Events who are already active in the Manchester area and stage both the Wilmslow and Macclesfield triathlons.

Xtra mile director Simon Hill, said at the event launch: "The city is known for its achievements within sport so there was no question that Greater Manchester should have a marathon of its own. We feel it is important to support the local community and local charities."

Participants can now enter for the early bird discount price of £39 (£41 unaffiliated) until the start of September. The price includes free training plans and a goody bag and T-shirt.