Manchester's show of defiance as sporting events go ahead
More than 35,000 runners expected to take part on Sunday
Last updated 26th May 2017
Manchester City Council's leader Sir Richard Leese has hailed this weekend's Great CityGames and Great Manchester Run as a sporting show of defiance, as Manchester begins to move forward from the horrific attack at Manchester Arena.
More than 35,000 runners are expected to take part in Sunday’s 10k, junior and half-marathon events, in a powerful symbol of a resilient city continuing to move forward, even as it grieves after the horrific Manchester Arena attack. Many entrants will be running to raise money for the We Love Manchester Emergency Fund, which has been launched by Manchester City Council and the British Red Cross to support those affected by the attack.
All planned start times will remain as scheduled and entrants are to be sent a detailed pre-event communication by email.
Today's Arcadis Great CityGames will also be staged as planned. The annual event, which brings world-class athletes like Olympic champion long jumper Greg Rutherford and Paralympic sprint gold medallist Jonnie Peacock to Albert Square and Deansgate, is free of charge for spectators.
The Leader of Manchester City Council, Sir Richard Leese, said: “The Great CityGames and Great Manchester Run are always an important part of the city's event calendar, but they have particular resonance this year, after this week's horrific attack.
"Seeing many thousands of people taking to our streets to run together in Europe’s biggest 10k event will be a potent symbol of Manchester’s strength and resolve. This city is united, it is resilient and we will not bow to those who would seek to divide us.”
Brendan Foster, Chairman of the Great Run Company, said: "The Great Run Company is proud to stage these iconic events for Manchester. Our support is absolute and they will provide a platform for the city to demonstrate its resilience and togetherness."