From Oli Murphy…

Zoe and I signed up for the Great Manchester half in January with a big group of university mates, full of promises to put the excesses of Christmas behind them. Fast forward five months and predictably all but one of them had made varying sheepish excuses, and dropped out of the Whatsapp group.

Manchester was buzzing, which was great to see five years to the day since the arena bombing in 2017. Lining up on the start line just behind UK running legend Chris Thompson was very cool, although I decided it was best not to join the Vaporfly crew who rather ambitiously hared off after him, with inevitable consequences. The course was a rather uninspiring tour of Manchester’s finest dual carriageways, although the out and back loops gave chance to see fellow Harrier Marie Watson looking incredibly strong on her way to an impressive 1:48 finishing time.

In the 10k Cam Reilly continued his run of good form with 32:45, clocking an outrageous first 5k of 15.24. Clare Boyle kicked off her return to racing with a 52:43, proving afternoon tea the day before a race is always a good idea, even if it doesn’t come from Betty’s.

From Clare Boyle…

This Sunday I took part in the Manchester 10km. An event that I nervously was only doing to support a friend who was getting back into running. So we decided to make a weekend of it and did plenty of carb loading the day before!!! Anyone needs any restaurant recommendations let me know. 

Back to the race which started off in Manchester city centre, beginning on Portland Street, heading out towards Salford Quays and past Old Trafford, before doubling back to finish up at Deansgate. The whole route is mainly flat and was well supported with live bands and fantastic crowds cheering you on which made it a great atmosphere and I think it has given me my race mojo back!! 

I was hoping to come in before 55 minutes and I can happily say I did it in 52:43!! 

Now what shall I sign up for next? 

Results:

Half marathon

1: Chris Thompson: 1:04:29

5: Oli Murphy: 1:11:00

1328: Marie Watson: 1:48:01

3110: Zoe Murphy: 2:05:37

10K

1: Jake Robertson: 28:06

54: Cameron Reilly: 32:45

3807: Clare Boyle: 52:43