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‘Mo’ people to sign up to the Purple Wave

13 Mar 2018

Athletics legend Mo Farah urges University staff to sign up for the Great Manchester Run

Image of Mo Farah

Athletics legend Mo Farah has urged everyone from The University of Manchester to sign up for the Simply Health Great Manchester Run on 20 May

The superstar will be taking part in the event, and told staff, students and alumni: “Good luck to everyone from The University of Manchester.”.

He added: “Get cracking guys, still time to sign up to the Purple Wave.”

Farah met with students and staff to fire up their enthusiasm for the event-  which is the largest 10k in Europe. The internationally renowned 10k run will be staged for the 16th time, with the day also including a half marathon in the heart of the city. The University will have its own start time, with a Purple Wave of runners wearing the purple technical running t-shirts they receive on registration.

Last year nearly 2500 University staff, students and alumni took part, forming their own purple wave. Runners who agree to fundraise for The University’s acclaimed Undergraduate Access Scholarship will be able to run for free. The scheme support’s bright young people who come the poorest parts of the country.

University staff and alumni can also register for free when they commit to raising £100 for the scheme.

Head of Sport Vicky Ackerley said: “In just three years the Purple Wave has gone from a crazy idea to an established annual mass participation event for The University of Manchester community. We are currently the only organisation to have our very own starting wave, and hold the record for the largest entry. “Whether a seasoned runner, or a complete beginner looking to improve your health and wellbeing, this event provides the opportunity to be part of something really special and raise the profile of our University.”

She added: “It also provides the opportunity to raise money for good causes, and we have raised over £150,000 in the last two years. “This year we are, in particular, supporting the University’s Undergraduate Access Scholarship, which helps to support students who would not usually be encouraged to aspire to a University education.”

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