The Manchester Marathon: An Epic Challenge Awaiting
Manchester Marathon Circuit
The 26.2-mile Manchester Marathon course provides participants with a scenic tour of the city. Starting and finishing in the shadows of Old Trafford football stadium, home to Manchester United, the route heads south through the cities of Trafford, Sale and Altrincham.
After leaving Old Trafford, runners pass the Imperial War Museum North and follow the Bridgewater Canal towpath through the affluent suburbs of Timperley and Altrincham. The halfway point is reached just after crossing the Manchester Ship Canal at Warburton Bridge, with the route then doubling back through Dunham Massey Deer Park before returning to the city centre.
Key sights encountered over the closing stages include the Manchester United football ground, Salford Quays, Beetham Tower, Manchester Town Hall and the finish outside the Lancashire County Cricket Club. With minimal elevation change, the fast, flat course provides runners with the chance to set new personal best times.
How to Enter the Manchester Marathon Ballot
The Manchester Marathon is one of the most popular marathons in the UK, with over 20,000 runners taking part each year. Due to high demand, entries are allocated by ballot, so runners must go through a process to secure a coveted spot on the start line. Here is a step-by-step guide to entering the Manchester Marathon ballot.
Check Entry Requirements
Before entering, all runners should check they meet the Manchester Marathon entry criteria. These requirements ensure entrants can comfortably complete the marathon course within the event timings. Key requirements are:
Register Online Entry Account
Entrants must first register their details with the official Manchester Marathon online entry system. This creates your account profile allowing you to enter the ballot. Visit manchestermarathon.com and click the Entrant Sign Up button. Fill in all mandatory fields including, name, date of birth, and email address. Tick boxes agreeing to terms and conditions. Don’t forget your password.
Enter the Ballot Before the Deadline
A six-week window opens allowing runners to enter the ballot for guaranteed consideration. The deadline is clearly stated on the event website. Log back into your entry account, click to enter ballot and submit payment details. The fee covers your entry if successful. If unsuccessful, you can roll the entry forward to the next year or request a refund.
Consider Charity Entry
As an alternative to the ballot, runners can apply for charity places. This guarantees entry in return for committing to raise a minimum sponsorship amount. Search the Manchester Marathon charity partner options to find a cause that inspires you.
Receive Ballot Notification
In March all runners entered into the ballot will be informed if they have been successful via email and on their marathon dashboard. Review junk folders carefully so as not to miss this crucial notification. If entry is confirmed, celebrate and start training! If you are unsuccessful commiserations but you can try again next year or consider a charity place.
Optimal Preparation for Marathon Success
Thorough preparation in the months before the big day is crucial to completing the 26.2-mile Manchester Marathon course. Follow these optimal training, nutrition and lifestyle tips to get Manchester Marathon ready:
The Manchester Marathon: Final Preparations
With race day fast approaching, runners should tick off these final jobs to ensure smooth participation in the Manchester Marathon.
Administration & Logistics
Kit Prep
Physical Prep
Mental Prep
Good luck conquering the Manchester Marathon!
Spectating on Manchester Marathon Day
The Manchester Marathon is a highlight of the city's events calendar, with over 20,000 runners tackling the iconic 26.2-mile route through the streets of Greater Manchester. For supporters, spectating on marathon day is an uplifting, fun experience to be part of. This guide covers the best marathon spectating tips and information.
Best Spectator Points
The Manchester Marathon course offers many excellent vantage points to view runners at no cost and soak up the electric atmosphere. Here are prime spots for supporters: