From the reason you signed up to the highs and lows of training, we know that each of our adidas Manchester Marathon participant’s event journeys are unique.

Whether you’re gunning for a PB or just looking to get round with a smile on your face, we’re proud of every single participant who is taking on the 26.2 challenge with us on Sunday.

To celebrate the different experiences and goals of our incredible participants, we looked at two Manchester Run Club members training journeys and targets ahead of the big day.

Thank you Abbie (our first timer) and Marv (taking on his fourth marathon) for chatting with us – we hope you’re looking forward to smashing it this weekend!

ABBIE – BEGINNER

26 year old Abbie is a new member of Manchester Run Club, having entered the year with only a handful of kilometres under her belt.  Now, the Salford based running convert will take on her first ever marathon with us on Sunday 14th April. Abbie shared her highs and lows of training – as well as event day goals – ahead of the big day.

BIGGEST TRAINING CHALLENGE

“Finding the time for long runs! Marathon training is time consuming, especially when you’re doing it alongside a busy 9-5, while also volunteering and making time for family and friends. Certain things have had to be pushed aside over the last 16 weeks so I could focus on the challenge.”

BEST TRAINING MOMENT

“As the mileage increased each week, long runs became quite daunting. However, each time I managed to go further than before, I felt so accomplished. It’s crazy that at the end of last year, I hadn’t run more than 10km in ages. Now, I’ve run over 270 km since January!”

A TRAINING #FAIL

“I wasn’t aware that you’re meant to wear running trainers that are bigger than your regular size. Let’s just say that very quickly resulted in very sore feet and black toenails. Ouch.”

PLAN FOR THE DAY

“I just want to enjoy it. I truly believe that the training is the hardest part and I will have prepared myself as much as I can for that moment. So, I’ll be soaking in the atmosphere and taking in every moment!.”

MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO

“For me, it’s all about crossing the finish line. I’ll then be having a well-deserved prosecco with my family and friends!”

WHY DO YOU RUN WITH A CLUB?

“Personally, I don’t think I would have been able to do my marathon training without a run club. I’ve done almost all of my long runs with friends and it’s been the best support to power me through.”

MARV – ADVANCED

Marv is an English Masters Athlete who helped create Manchester Run Club in August 2023. The 39-year-old Hydrogeologist can often be found zipping around Manchester on his road bike and winning parkruns (the latest in Krakow, Poland and Easingwold in the North York Moors!). Marv is taking on the adidas Manchester Marathon for the second time and has set his sights on beating his current PB of 02:36.07.

BIGGEST TRAINING CHALLENGE

“Winter training – it’s been hard to get out in the wet, cold weather this year. I am a relatively low mileage runner in general and I love cross-training on my bike. However, running with my girlfriend and Manchester Run Club has really helped increase my weekly mileage this time around.”

BEST TRAINING MOMENT

“I did a competitive 10km as part of my training, and while I was seriously humbled by the other competitors, I loved the adrenaline of running fast in a competitive field again. It was also inspiring and impressive to see the other talent.”

A TRAINING #FAIL

“I seriously underestimated how long it would take to get to a local parkrun from my friend’s house… I rocked up after the starting whistle and had to do a lot of pram dodging from there on out!”

PLAN FOR THE DAY

“I’ll have a very early breakfast and then relax with some coffee at home, before heading to the start line close to my house. I’ll try not to get too carried away at the start and just relax into it, try to find a group to stick with and enjoy it from there.”

MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO

“Definitely seeing people I know from my clubs on the route. There will be over 80 people I know supporting in Chorlton-cum-Hardy and they sure won’t miss me with my trademark pink vest and white hair!”

WHY DO YOU RUN WITH A CLUB

“I really enjoy seeing people get into running. I see great milestones, like people running their first 5k or half for the first time. I also love that I help create a running environment where everyone feels safe.”

Thank you Abbie and Marv for sharing your marathon experiences and we can’t wait to hear how you and your fellow Manchester Run Club members get on!