New Manchester virtual running challenge is now live – here’s how to take part

The Great Manchester Run may have been cancelled this year. But there’s a new virtual challenge you can take part in – and it launches today.

Starting on 10th August and finishing on 6th September, the day the event was scheduled to take place, the We Love Manchester Active Challenge takes participants through what would have been the final stages of training.

Participants are challenged to complete a minimum of 15 activities of any distance over 28 days, and there is also a junior challenge available for younger runners aged 16 and under.

Those taking part can walk, jog or run at any pace or distance they’re comfortable with and everyone who completes the challenge will receive a special edition medal.

The challenge will culminate with a Virtual Bee Wave on 6th September, with all participants encouraged to complete their final activity dressed in bee theme.

The challenge costs £10 to join, and all profits will go to the We Love MCR Charity, which supports communities and young people across Manchester.

“Despite having to cancel the event due to the public health crisis caused by the Coronavirus, we were determined to find a way to still celebrate all that is great about the event,” said Paul Foster of the Great Run Company.

“The Great Manchester Run is an important day in the calendar for charities with millions raised each year.

“All profits from the challenge will go to the We Love MCR charity, and we’re encouraging all participants to fundraise for one of the event’s official charities.

“Together we can help our charity partners raise a significant fundraising total.”

Councillor Luthfur Rahman says that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a catastrophic effect on UK charities, with We Love MCR not exempt from the effects impacting their ability to provide support to Manchester.

“However, in true Mancunian spirit, we are challenging Manchester to be more active across 28 days,” he said.

 “I am thrilled to support the launch of the ‘We Love Manchester Active Challenge’, a virtual proposition not just for runners, but something for non-runners too, where everyone can get involved.

“This will be accessible to all, regardless of ability, where residents can walk, jog or run to suit their level.

“This summer, why not challenge yourself and your family to take on the virtual 4-week challenge and raise money for We Love MCR? I’m up for the challenge!”

The challenge costs £10 to join, and all profits go to the We Love MCR Charity, which supports communities and young people across Manchester. Entries are open now, and close on 23rd August. 

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