More than 32,000 people are expected to take part in the ASICS Manchester Half Marathon on Sunday, October 4. The 13.1-mile race starts and ends in Old Trafford, with the route passing through Hulme, Chorlton, Sale, and Sale Moor. This year's participation marks a significant increase from the 22,500 runners last year, who raised over £1.8 million for local and national charities.
Event Details and Start Times
The event begins at 8.50am with elite wheelchair participants setting off first, followed by elite and white bib participants at 9.05am. From 9.10am, runners will start in coloured waves every nine minutes until 11.07am. The start access point is on Talbot Road, near Trafford Town Hall and Lancashire County Cricket Club.
Participants will receive event packs by post, which may arrive up to 48 hours before the race. Those with international addresses or needing replacements can collect packs on Saturday, October 3, between 10am and 6pm at ASICS House Manchester, North Bar: Circle Square, Manchester, M1 7FA. No packs will be available on race day.
Travel and Spectator Information
Transport for Greater Manchester advises using public transport on race day, with extra Metrolink services operating. The closest tram stops are Old Trafford (three-minute walk) and Trafford Bar (ten-minute walk). The Imperial War Museum stop is quieter but may involve a longer walk after 9.15am due to route crossings.
Recommended spectator spots include the supporter send-off area at Deansgate Interchange, the 'Buzz Hub' on Trafford Road, and the 'Mad For It' DJ Cheer Point at Stretford Public Hall. The ASICS Cheer Zone is at mile 11.15, and other vantage points include Wharfside and Chorlton-cum-Hardy.
Bag Drop and Road Closures
The bag drop is at Lancashire County Cricket Club, and participants should arrive 30 minutes before their start time. Each runner can drop one small bag and will receive a numbered wristband for collection.
Significant road closures will be in place across the city on Sunday. TfGM strongly advises avoiding driving in affected areas due to congestion and delays. Most closures remain until 4.30pm, with some reopening from 1pm and the last roads opening from 8.30pm.
Finish times will appear on the official website shortly after runners complete the course, typically within 45 minutes. Spectators can search by bib number or runner's name.
