The ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon took over Manchester on Sunday 8th April as more than 13,500 runners set out for 26.2 gruelling miles.

Elite athletes from around the world were joined by enthusiastic runners for the route which encompassed Trafford, Stretford, Urmston, Altringham, and Sale.

Start line Greater Manchester Marathon
Start line Greater Manchester Marathon

The winner Shadrack Tanui, 31, from Kenya, finished in an impressive time of 2:21:17 which was a course record, it was the first UK marathon for the athlete.

Quays News spoke to the Shadrack who came 5th in the 10k distance at the Rio Olympics:

The first female athlete Dani Nimmock, who runs for the City of Norwich Athletics Club, finished in a time of 2:38:24 which was a new personal best.

Among the athletes were 65-year-old Steve Bassam who was taking on his 100th marathon and Claire Lomas who suffered a severe spinal injury back in 2007.

Claire is completing the 26.2 miles using a robotic suit and is hoping to finish the distance in up to 10 days, beating her marathon record of 17 days.

Claire Lomas beginning her journey
Claire Lomas beginning her journey

The course was packed with supporters cheering on the runners to keep them moving through to the end.

Sean Anstee, leader of Trafford Council, said:

“It has been a cracking day here in Trafford and the race has been so exciting to watch. The event is renowned for its outstanding crowd support and unique entertainment around the course. It is a great showcase of the true spirit of people here who have shown a world-class welcome to so many local and international participants.”

Running great, Ron Hill, was also at the start and finish lines encouraging the athletes to complete the 26.2 miles like he has so many times.

Ron Hill at the Greater Manchester Marathon
Ron Hill at the Greater Manchester Marathon

Elation and exhaustion were the overriding emotions of the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon finishers, some of whom were completing a marathon for the first time, others hoping for a PB on the notoriously fast, flat course.

Just two days after the event, 5,000 places for the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon 2019 were released.

This years event was a huge success and with fast times achieved on the course, it is likely that more elite runners will be looking to compete in future events.

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