Thousands line city for Manchester Marathon 2023

Thousands of runners took on the 26.2 mile challenge

Runners Ellie, Sarah and Charlotte take on the Manchester Marathon 2023
Author: Jodie SmithPublished 16th Apr 2023
Last updated 18th Apr 2023

Over 21,000 runners took on the 26.2 mile Manchester Marathon today (16th April 2023) which started and finished back up in Trafford.

The annual race is well-known for it's supportive crowds and music throughout the course.

The route goes through Hulme and the city centre, even passing by Sale and Altrincham.

Ignas Bracevicius from Lithuania was the first runner across the finish line with a time of 02:16:27.

The first female runner across the line was Naomi Mitchell with a time of 02:31:27.

Naomi Mitchell said: "I'm really happy to get the win, it was great out there today - good support and good weather.

"You can't fault the crowds today, there was so many people out."

Former BBC Race Across The World 2021 winner Emon Choudhury took on the challenge today whilst fasting during Ramadan.

Emon Choudhury

He is trying to raise £7,777 for Motor Neuron Disease Association (MNDA) after being inspired by a meeting with Leeds Rhino legend Rob Burrows MBE, who lives with the disease.

Emon Choudhury said: "Rob was diagnosed with Motor Neuron Disease a couple of years ago and he's been doing loads of fundraising for the charity.

"He's been my hero and my inspiration for this and I want to raise awareness of the charity."

Many other runners were also completing the race to raise money for good causes, with an estimated £1.5m being raised in total.

Fancy taking on the challenge yourself next year? Register for the 2024 Manchester Marathon.

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