The allure of the flattest, friendliest course in the UK tempted 3 Roadrunners into entering the Greater Manchester Marathon on Sunday. Just 180ft of elevation across the course makes this a perfect opportunity to run a PB.
Glen Jones, Mike Berry and Sarah Holmes somewhat unexpectedly kicked off the Roadrunners marathon season. After claiming he’d retired from marathon running, sneaky Glen had been stealth training for months. Having talked cohort Holmes into accompanying him on his secret mission, they flew up to the northern city.
Beautiful blue skies prevailed as they nervously lined up with 12500 others outside the hallowed grounds of Old Trafford for the early 9am start. Started by running legend Ron Hill, the 41st marathon kicked off in perfect conditions.
Winding through leafy Sale, Timperly, Altrincham and Carrington, the course was well supported and well marshalled, with plenty of entertainment on route. From blues bands to choirs, the local community really get behind his fantastically organised event.
“I would say it’s the one to do if you are trying for a PB” said Glen “It has that big race feel, but without feeling crowded”
And PB they did! Sarah stormed through her goal time of going sub 4 hours in a nifty 3.50.19. Knocking 17 minutes off her previous best time and taking her official marathon tally upto number 5.
“I am so glad Glen talked me into this race” said the diminutive Holmes “I have way exceeded my own expectation. I dared to dream – it paid off!”
Glen also had a stonking day at the office, despite his concerns about the sun becoming too warm. He took a whopping 34 minutes off his PB to cross the line in 4.03.23. A phenomenal improvement by any measure!
S.Holmes – 3.50.19
G.Jones – 4.03.23
M.Berry – 5.00.16
Great Manchester, Great Marathon, Great Run. Think the Roadrunners will be back without a doubt.
