£1.8 MILLION RAISED IN RECORD-BREAKING YEAR OF FUNDRAISING
The Manchester Half has surpassed its £1.5 million fundraising target following a record-breaking event, raising 1.8 million for good causes.
28,000 took on the 13.1 mile challenge for various good causes.
With 28,000 having flocked to the Trafford Arch start line to take on the challenge, the event was Manchester’s largest half marathon ever. Among the various inspiring reasons for taking part were those raising money for charities, which included the The Christie Charity, Alzheimer’s Society, Moya Cole Hospice (formerly St Ann’s Hospice) and Cancer Research UK.
We spoke to four fundraising participants after the event – find out how they got on below!
1. FREDDIE MEREDITH (THE CHRISTIE)
Freddie crossed the finish line with his friend Ethan.
18-year-old Freddie Meredith, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour in December at 17, raised nearly £7,000 for The Christie Charity.
“The Christie helped take care of me and my family from December until August, when I was given the all clear after my cancer treatment. I signed up for this the Manchester Half to give back to this incredible charity who support the many people who are impacted by cancer”.
“I’m really pleased with how today went. The plan was to run 1 hour 30 but we actually ran 1 hour 23, so we’re buzzing with that result. The crowds were amazing you could see the community come together, which really helped.”
Amazing work Freddie, and well done on your epic fundraising!
2. GORDON AARON (ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY)
Gordon described himself as “90 years young – and fitter than ever!”
Manchester Half’s Oldest Participant, Gordon Aaron, took of his fifth Manchester Half to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Society, following the passing of his wife Doreen who suffered from dementia. Gordon described himself as “90 years young – and fitter than ever!” after completing the event in an impressive 03:17:08. Read Gordon’s inspiring story in full here!
Congratulations Gordon – an absolute inspiration!
3. LIV LOWE (MOYA COLE HOSPICE)
Olivia was supported by family and friends on the day.
Bolton-born Olivia Lowe took on her first half marathon for the Moya Cole Hospice, with family and friends cheering her on with gusto over the 13.1 mile course. Olivia took part for her ‘Pappi’, who passed away from bowel cancer last year:
“The Moya Cole Hospice (formerly St Ann’s Hospice) have a special place in my heart as they took good care of my Pappi whilst he was going through treatment. He unfortunately passed away last year, so when the opportunity came up to run the Manchester Half, I thought it was such a good idea to push myself and do it for a cause so close to my family’s heart! I have raised £915 so far and donations are still coming in”.
Congratulations Olivia – what a fantastic cause to support!
4. ANNABEL CLANCY (CANCER RESEARCH UK)
20-year-old Annabel Clancy never dreamed she’d take on a half marathon, but she’s only gone and done it – raising £1,100 for Cancer Research UK! Annabel said the following about her achievement:
“Completing the MCR Half has been a highlight of my year, and doing it for Cancer Research UK makes it even more special. It exceeded my expectations in every aspect: the fact I completed it without stopping, the incredible race day atmosphere, and above all beating my £500 fundraising target, with the final number totalling £1,100! I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, and to know that the money I’ve raised might help to change the future of cancer treatment is so meaningful.”
Annabel took on the Manchester Half alongside her dad, who she described as her “inspiration”.
Well done Annabel and we hope to see you again soon!
Public entries into the Manchester Half 2026 on Sunday 4th October are now open. Sign up to fundraise for one of our amazing Official Charity Partner or an associate partner via our website today.