Everyone who took on the Manchester Half 2025 yesterday is a winner, but there were some participants you probably couldn’t help but notice out on the course…

Whether they were going for a world record or taking part for a special cause, the following participants caught out eyes – and hearts – at yesterday’s Manchester Half!

1. TEAM CATEPILLAR

Matthew Athersmith, Eddie Evans, Andrew Cairns and Jimmy Craig wiggled their way into history, having set the Guinness World Record for the Fastest Half Marathon in a four-person costume. Clocking a time of 01:14:08, the creepy crawly crew took 15 minutes off the previous record, set in Geist (United States). Team leader Matthew Ainsworth said the following:

“The challenge went unbelievably well. We chose the right outfit to do the attempt in – there were lots of families out and obviously the ‘hungry caterpillar’ was a recognisable character for everyone to get behind. There were also some surprised faces when the caterpillar was passing them! Thank you to the Manchester Half for letting us do the attempt at their event. It couldn’t have been a better day and like I said, we could not have thought of a better place to break the record.” 

Find out more about the challenge here.

2.  GORDON AARON

Manchester Half’s Oldest Participant, Gordon Aaron, described himself as “90 years young – and fitter than ever!” after completing the event in an impressive 03:17:08. Gordon, who started running at 83 following a prostrate cancer diagnosis, said the secret to keeping fit is walking 9 miles a day and attending a weekly Zumba class. He took part to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Society, following the passing of his wife Doreen who suffered from dementia. Read Gordon’s inspiring story in full here!

3. ANEILA AFSAR

Gladiator’s finalist Aneila Afsar achieved her goal of beating her fastest half marathon time pushing her daughter in a pram – by a whole 4 minutes! Aneila said “I’ve always said my children will be my motivation not my limitation. I hope that many other women will be inspired and believe that they can achieve things despite their circumstances or barriers”. Aneila finished in a time of 01:49:18 – beating her PB pushing her daughter Aya in a pram by 4 minutes.

4. SOPHIE GODLEY

Sophie Godley, from Worksop, set the Guinness World Record the Fastest Half Marathon Carrying Golf Clubs (Female), knocking the record out the park with a time of 02:21:57. Sophie joined us at the finish line, evening posing for photos while still carrying the 8kg bag of 13 golf clubs. She said the following about the day:

“Today was definitely a challenge but the amount of support from the spectators and everyone participating was amazing. I’m proud to say that I have currently raised £1,930 for Bowel Cancer UK. This was in honour of my cousin Jake Godley who was my inspiration behind this challenge. Thank you so much Manchester Half!”

Find out more about Sophie’s challenge here.

5. PIP FRANCE

29-year-old Pip France made it all look too easy, taking on the 13.a distance in fireman suit, smiling and high fiving the crowds all the way round! The suit, which included a helmet and backpack, added considerable extra weight, but Pip still managed to cross the finish line in 02:10:19. Kudos to you, Pip!

Well done to all our 28,000 participants who took part in the Manchester Half 2025. Entries for next year’s event on Sunday 4^th October 2026 will open to the public at noon, Tuesday 14^th October. Best-price places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis – you can sign-up for updates here.