We’re beyond inspired by everyone who took on the 2025 adidas Manchester Marathon on what has been hailed the largest day of marathon running in UK history.

With 36,000 participants embarking on their own unique journey to the finish line, narrowing down all the incredible stories wasn’t easy—but there were seven standout participants who caught our eye.

From smashing records, turning heads with creative outfits, or running for causes close to their hearts, here’s our spotlight on some of the remarkable individuals from Sunday’s event.

1. HUMPHREY KER

 

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Wrexham FC’s Humphrey Ker was embraced by none other than Rob McElhenney at the finish line, having raised over £133,000 for The Wrexham Miners Project which the Hollywood-owned football club supports. This created a glorious finale to a bumper weekend for Wrexham, following the club’s promotion on Saturday. Humphrey very candidly said the following about his challenge:

“I was, frankly, dreading it! As a 6’7”, 116kg, first time runner, I knew it would be a Herculean task and so it proved. However, the support and warmth of the people of Manchester, who dished out Haribo, sprayed me with water and showered me with praise was paramount to getting me through it!”

2. CHARLOTTE WHISTLECROFT

Bolton-born Charlotte Whistlecroft took part in full cricket gear in memory of her friend, David, who loved the sport. Complete with helmet, gloves, pads and bat, Charlotte faced even more of a challenge in warm the warm weather, but said the following:

“Wow! That was the hardest but most amazing afternoon of my life. Very tough in the heat but the crowds were incredible the whole way round, shouting out some very clever cricket puns! To say say I’ve done it feels incredible. I hope I’ve made David proud.”

3. STEVE HUGHES

A Guinness World Record was also set yesterday by adidas Manchester Marathon legend Steve Hughes, who smashed his record for being the fastest person to complete a marathon on a roller sit ski. The army veteran, who sustained injuries during his service, obliterated his own record by 20 minutes.

4. KELSEY SHERIDAN

28 year old Kelsey Sheridan overcame CFS/ME to complete her first marathon with the support of her assistance dog, Hamble, by her side. After running the first section of the challenge together, Hamble and Kelsey were reunited in an emotional moment at the finish. Kelsey said: “I made it safely to the finish line 9 minutes faster than I expected. Hamble and I are already considering signing up for next year!”

5. FLEUR EAST

 

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BBC Strictly It Takes Two Host, Fleur East, had her first taste of the challenge as part of an all-women relay team. After the event, Fleur said: “The atmosphere was incredible. Seeing all of the signs and getting high fives really helped to drive me forward. My one-year-old daughter, Nova, was my motivation – when  I crossed the finish line and saw her little face I was brought to tears! Completing the marathon as part of a team with my Kurl Friends from my run club made it even more special.”

6. MADHUSMITA JENA

Madhusmita is becoming somewhat of a legend at the event, honouring her Indian heritage by wearing a full saree for a second time. Madhusmita, who lives in Manchester said:

“This was my 5th Manchester Marathon and 2nd in a Saree. I was in complete awe of the amazing crowd support and the commitment of the community. This time around, it was harder to run due to the warm conditions, but I still loved the event and was proud to return to it!”

7. MR BEAN!

A certain ‘runner bean’ was spotted as participant Neil Cook donned full ‘Mr Bean’ attire to take on the challenge (extra kudos were given for Teddy’s matching bib!) Neil said this about being part of the event: “I’ve been running for about 30 years and I like to run as Mr Bean because it puts a lot of smiles on people’s faces which makes me happy. I have a couple more smaller events planned for this year,  and I hope the support there is as good as I received at the adidas Manchester Marathon – it was was absolutely brilliant!”

 

There you have it: 7 amazing finishers from the adidas Manchester Marathon 2025. Did you see or hear any incredible stories? Tell us here.