The stars you could be running alongside at this year’s Great Manchester Run

Manchester is gearing up for an exciting weekend of fun on Sunday, 18th May 2025, as the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run returns in its biggest edition in a decade.

With over 35,000 runners set to hit the streets, it’s shaping up to be a celebration of endurance, determination, and community spirit.

Star Power on the Starting Line

It’s not every day you get to share the road with famous faces!

Keely Hodgkinson had an extraordinary 2024, securing Olympic gold in the 800m at the Paris 2024 Games, earning the title of Sports Personality of the Year, and receiving an MBE.

Now, she’s taking on a new role as the official race starter for the 2025 AJ Bell Great Manchester Run.

Having honed her skills from an early age with Leigh Harriers, the Atherton-born athlete will kick off the event on Sunday, May 18th, sending over 35,000 runners on their way in what promises to be the largest Great Manchester Run in a decade.

Keely Hodgkinson said: “Running in Manchester runs in my blood, my mum and dad were both huge club and distance runners locally and they inspired me to follow in their footsteps. I can’t wait to start this year’s Great Manchester Run, not only to set some of the world’s best runners on their way, but also the thousands of fellow Mancunians who share my love of running!”

Joining the runners this year is Tommy Fury, the boxer and reality star, alongside his brother Roman, both taking on the challenging Half Marathon.

2023’s I Love Manchester Awards host Gemma Atkinson will also be back, running in support of Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary. She’ll be joined by her partner, Strictly Come Dancing’s Gorka Marquez, bringing their signature energy to the race.

From the world of television, Coronation Street stars Harriet Bibby, Elle Mulvaney, and newcomer Jason Callender are ready to represent the cobbles. Meanwhile, Emmerdale’s Isabel Hodgins and Danny Miller are lacing up their trainers, with Danny running alongside his good friend and charity co-founder, Daniel Jillings, supporting Once Upon a Smile.

And let’s not forget Peter Hook, the iconic Manchester music legend, who will be running with his family to raise funds for The Christie.

Super saturday for young runners

Before the adults take to the streets, the spotlight will be on the city’s young athletes at Sportcity on Saturday, 17th May. Over 1,500 Junior and Mini runners will embrace the excitement of the Junior & Mini event. Adding to the fun, stars from the TV show Gladiators will be cheering them on, making it a Super Saturday to remember.

Stories that inspire at the Great Manchester Run

While celebrities may catch headlines, it’s the stories of everyday heroes that truly capture the heart of the Great Manchester Run.

Meet Emelone Ijeoma, fondly known as Flo, who first experienced the run as a volunteer in 2018. The electric atmosphere inspired her to lace up her own running shoes, especially after a diabetes diagnosis prompted her to focus on her health. This year, she’s leading the charge for the NHS Blue Wave to encourage friends, colleagues, and the wider community to take part.

Her motto? “Let’s come out, have fun, and do our bit!”

Then there’s James Paton, a 27-year-old who has faced the challenges of alopecia since childhood. After years of hiding behind wigs, James took the brave step of embracing his baldness. Now, he’s on a mission to raise awareness and funds for the Little Princess Trust. He’s leading the self-titled “Great Bald Run” with over 50 participants running together in bald caps,  some even shaving their heads in a bold act of solidarity. “It’s a statement that beauty isn’t defined by hair,” said James.

How to be part of the Great Manchester Run

With thousands of runners and over 100,000 spectators cheering from the sidelines, the atmosphere will be electric. Plus, for those who can’t make it in person, the event will be broadcast live on the BBC from 11am to 1pm.

Thinking of joining in? Spots for the 10K, Half Marathon, and Junior & Mini events are in high demand and expected to sell out. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this iconic event. Visit their website here to secure your place and get ready to run for greatness!

Let’s make Manchester proud, see you at the starting line!