In 2024, PUMA athlete Jack Rowe set a blistering course record at Manchester Half of 01:02:12. One year on, he reflects on what makes the event special – from the fast, crowd-lined streets, to why Manchester always delivers.

Alongside sharing his experience, Jack is also inspiring Manchester Half participants ahead the big day this year, sharing his expert advice and tips.

Make sure to read until the end of our interview with Jack to discover his unique event day rituals, as well as his favourite racing shoe, and controversial training playlist!

JACK – YOU WON THE 2024 MANCHESTER HALF MARATHON AND SET THE COURSE RECORD. HOW DID THAT FEEL AND WHAT WAS YOUR FAVOURITE PART?

It was a brilliant, sunny day. As always, the course was fun and varied with amazing crowd support. My favourite part was the residential section through Chorlton – where the roads twists and the crowds roar you on to the finish line. It felt amazing to cross the finish line, after a proper race with a fellow athlete!

WALK US THROUGH THE FINAL MILE OF YOUR RECORD-BREAKING RUN…

I broke away from my mate Jacob Allen around mile six. I thought I had it all wrapped up, but at mile nine I realised he was still close. The last mile was tougher than expected – I had to really push through from the PUMA arch, which was totally flat, so that final stretch was fast! I managed to pip Jacob to the post.

WHAT’S ONE THING ABOUT THE MANCHESTER HALF COURSE THAT PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW?

It’s a fast course, so if you’re in good shape and stick to your plan, it’s a great place to chase a PB. The route breaks into segments, so it doesn’t feel like one long slog. There’s also variety, good atmosphere, and loads of incredible support.

WHERE ARE THE CROWDS MOST SUPPORTIVE ON THE ROUTE?

The section around Deansgate Interchange is buzzing – with loads of energy and noise to give you a boost. I also love the residential areas towards the end. Local families come out to cheer from their driveways, and it feels more personal.

WHAT MAKES MANCHESTER HALF SPECIAL COMPARED TO OTHER EVENTS?

Firstly, it’s the community, who turn out in full force on event day. Also, the fact that PUMA are the Official Sportwear Partner of the event makes it feel like a home race for me. It’s not just about racing in a singlet – it’s about being part of the team.

OK, NOW SOME ADVICE TO SHARE WITH PARTICIPANTS… WHAT DOES YOUR TRAINING AND RECOVERY LOOK LIKE IN THE FINAL WEEK BEFORE RACE DAY?

As most of the hard work is done by then, that final week is all about recovery, easy runs, fresh legs, good food and hydration. You’re just getting ready to enjoy the day and trust the training you’ve put in.

WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND EATING BEFORE THE EVENT?

I keep it super simple – rice and chicken the night before, to avoid any risky foods that could cause problems on event day. In the morning – it’s always porridge and maybe a banana.

DO YOU HAVE ANY EVENT-DAY RITUALS THAT HELP YOU GET IN THE ZONE?

I sleep in compression socks the night before! I only ever do this the night before race day. I also always wear a new pair of socks on race day. I don’t know why, but it’s naturally part of my routine now!

WHAT’S THE BIGGEST MISTAKE YOU SEE RUNNERS MAKE IN THE LEAD-UP TO A HALF AND HOW CAN THEY AVOID IT?

Trying to run the full event distance in training. If you’ve comfortably done 9–10 miles, that’s enough. Race day brings adrenaline, fresh legs, and crowd energy. Overdoing it in training can leave you flat when it counts.

IF YOU COULD GIVE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE TO SOMEONE RUNNING THEIR FIRST HALF MARATHON, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Don’t try anything new on event day: this isn’t the time to experiment. My advice is to do a full ‘dry run’ of race morning during a training run a few weeks before: wake up early, eat the same breakfast and wear the shoes you’ll take part in. That way, when event day comes, it all feels familiar.

HOW DO YOU MENTALLY RESET AFTER A TOUGH RACE OR TRAINING BLOCK THAT DIDN’T GO TO PLAN?

It’s not easy. I’ve made the mistake of jumping straight back into hard training or blaming a disappointing result on not being fast or good enough. So now, I take time off, see friends, play golf, and reflect properly. After about a week, I sit down and plan how I can come back stronger.

AND FINALLY, 3 QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS! WHAT DO YOU LISTEN TO DURING YOUR LONG RUNS?

I have the worst music taste in the world, but I train solo a lot, so I’ll listen to an eclectic mix of dance, rock, and yes – Justin Bieber and Ed Sheeran! Some of the tunes are terrible, but it gets me through.

WHAT ARE YOUR RACE DAY SHOES?

For Manchester Half, it’s the FAST-R Nitro Elite 3. No question.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?

Long-term, I’m aiming to qualify for the marathon at LA 2028. Next up is Valencia Marathon in December.

Thank you Jack, for sharing your great advice for Manchester Half participants this year. Discover how PUMA is taking over the Manchester Half event weekend with shakeout runs, recovery rituals, and unbeatable energy below.

 

For more training and event day advice, you can also check out our Preparation page.