Manchester 1/2 Marathon

Posted on: Thursday 8th October 2026

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Manchester 1/2 Marathon

The Manchester Half Marathon provided a spectacular setting for thousands of runners, with a fast, predominantly flat course, huge crowds and the unmistakable atmosphere that accompanies one of the North West’s biggest running events.

Starting close to Old Trafford on Chester Road, the course winds its way through south Manchester, taking runners through Stretford, Sale and Chorlton before heading back towards the finish. The combination of a relatively quick course and enthusiastic support makes the Manchester Half a popular choice for runners chasing personal bests.

Among the field was Lostock AC’s Jo McManus, who delivered an impressive performance to finish in 1:40:36.

Jo admitted that, having run the race several times before, she didn’t pay quite as much attention to the course as she might have done!

However, there was certainly plenty to celebrate at the finish line. Jo’s time knocked an impressive three minutes off her Great North Run time from just three weeks earlier, securing a new half marathon personal best.

With the PB now safely in the record books, Jo has already set her sights on her next target, breaking the 1:40 barrier.

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100 Members

544 Miles ran this week

50940 Elevation gain achieved this weeK

What our members love about Lostock A.C.

Greg Kilshaw

Joining Lostock AC has been one of the best things that's ever happened to me. I decided to give it a try mainly to loose weight and meet new people. It's really helped with my weight, mental health and output on life. I've been in the club over a year now. Everyone makes you feel so welcome and I love being part of the Lostock family. My running has definitely improved, especially seeing all the medals I've won. It is not just running, Lostock offers other activities too such as cycling, bootcamp and skiing. All I've had a go at which has just been brilliant. Lostock is my second family . I have entered the Machester marathon next year and an ultra. All this for someone who couldn't run . Everyone has made me feel very welcome in the club, I now consider myself to be a runner and would recommend anyone to give Lostock a try.

Rachel Stevens

I joined Lostock AC to help improve my running and to motivate me to run more often. The club has surpassed my expectations. I am not from Bolton originally and did not have many friends in the area. I now feel part of an extended family. I have been encouraged and supported to run half marathons, marathons and an Ultra. I would never believe this was possible 3 years ago.

Rachel Hancock

I’m proud to be a member of Lostock AC, it’s an inclusive club with lovely people, there’s plenty of sporting activities to get involved in and the social get togethers are always welcoming and fun.

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