Purple Wavers launch Great Manchester Run

08 Mar 2022

Students and staff dropped in on the Great Manchester Run to help launch this year’s event last week

Registration is now open for this year’s Purple Wave, part of the Great Manchester Run, on 22 May.

James Banister, Eleanor Taylor and Jack Sharpen from the student’s Run Wild Society, joined TV star and model Ferne McCann who will be participating in this year’s event.

Ferne told the runners how running helps her stay grounded while juggling a busy schedule and being a mum.

Now in its seventh year, the Purple Wave organisers are hoping hundreds University staff, students and alumni will take part in the race.

The Great Manchester Run, Europe's leading 10 km running event, is broadcast live on the BBC. The internationally renowned event will be staged for the 19th time, with the day also including a half marathon in the heart of the city.

Our University will have its own start time, with a Purple Wave of runners wearing the purple technical running t-shirts they receive on registration.

In past years, up to 2,600 University staff, students and alumni have been part of the event.

And our University is again organising a 2.5K and 5K Run, this year on 9 March at Platt Fields, giving anyone who wants to take part in the May event a taster of what’s in store – whatever their ability.

Purple Wave organiser Ellen Stephenson said: “The struggles over the past few years have tested many people’s mental health. So the focus of this year’s Great Manchester Run is mental health and how running and everyday activity can help you keep a healthy mind -  as well as a healthy body. You can run, walk or jog; it’s great to be active.

“Running is a fantastic thing to do. It’s good for your physical and mental health and it’s also great fun. You don’t need to be experienced - it really is for anyone. So get involved!”

“And if you’ve never run before why not take part in our taster races? Just come along over your lunch break get involved: It only costs £3 and all finishers get an iron on badge.”

UoM Sport run a number of groups to support runners from a beginner’s session on a Tuesday evening to sessions for more experienced runners on lunchtimes and evenings.

Anyone who doesn’t want to take part in the races can volunteer. Email sportsvolunteer@manchester.ac.uk if you want to get involved on either the 9 March or the 22 May. 

All participants in the Purple Wave are being encouraged to raise money for their chosen cause. Re-write Cancer is the Purple Wave's chosen cause. The campaign aims  to create a world-leading cancer research centre in the heart of Manchester.

Those raising money for Re-write Cancer will have their entry fee waived if they reach the minimum fundraising target.