Five inspiring moments from the Simplyhealth Great Manchester Run that will warm your heart

Written by Georgina Pellant
Last updated 6 years ago
Charity, City of Manchester, Community, People, Sponsored

Experience a running event like no other on Sunday 19 May and remember, no matter how you get to the start line, do something to show them what you’re made of.

The 10k and half marathon courses are known for their buzzing atmosphere and incredible local support – and of course, the many inspirational runners who overcome adversity to take part and raise thousands for charity.

As the event approaches its 17th year in the city, we look back at some heart-warming moments.

When it means everything

42-year-old football agent Martin Hibbert was left paralysed from the waist down after the Manchester Arena bombing but defied the odds and took part in last year’s event in a racing wheelchair alongside former Paralympian Richie Powell and best friend Lee Freeman.

When you do it for the ones you love

Young or old, there’s always a reason to run. Millions of pounds are raised for charities and good causes every year at the Simplyhealth Great Manchester Run.

When it doesn’t matter how long it takes

Charity fundraiser and Pride of Britain winner Ella Chadwick was born with congenital nephrotic syndrome, a rare illness which causes kidney failure. Ella survived 40 gruelling operations in the first six years of her life before having a lifesaving kidney donated from her grandmother. By taking part in the run she has raised thousands of pounds for the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital to help other children in Manchester.

When you get a little help from your friends

In 2007, airline pilot Jerry Ward suffered a serious spinal-cord injury whilst swimming in the sea off the coast of Mexico. After being left paralysed, he introduced Fatty’s Big Push in 2008, and every year since has been pushed around the 10k by his friends, colleagues and family.

When you finish with a kiss

As this image shows, crossing the finish line with a loved one makes all the training and hard work worth it.

Since the first Great Manchester Run event in 2003, more than 300,000 people have crossed the finish line on Deansgate.

The annual run sees thousands take on their own challenges – all for a good cause.

Feeling inspired? Sign up to register yourself below.

This article was last updated 6 years ago.
It was first published on 22 February 2019 and is subject to be updated from time to time. Please refresh or return to see the latest version.

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