This expected turnout is nearly three times the average participation of marathons in the UK, showcasing the increasing popularity of long-distance running.

The marathon route spans 26.2 miles through several districts including Trafford, Stretford, Sale, Altrincham, Chorlton, and the city centre.

Runners will pass iconic landmarks such as Old Trafford and Bridgewater Hall, enhancing the scenic experience of the race.

The race begins at 8.55am for the Elite Wheelchair race and at 9am for elite runners, with the last start time set for 11.30am.

This marathon has been a consistent feature in Manchester since its inception in 2012, making it the second-largest marathon in the UK after London.

The event not only promotes fitness but also brings together a diverse community of runners from various backgrounds.

As preparations continue, city officials and organizers are focused on ensuring a smooth experience for all participants.

Details remain unconfirmed about potential changes to safety protocols or additional features for this year’s marathon.

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The race will commence on Whitehall and conclude at Trafalgar Square, covering a distance of 13.1 miles. Runners will set off in waves, beginning at 9:15 AM with the Heart Wave and concluding with the Royal Wave at 10:40 AM. This structured start time aims to ensure a smooth flow of participants along the route, which will pass notable landmarks such as Big Ben, The Shard, and St Paul’s Cathedral.

To facilitate the event, road closures will begin as early as 2:30 AM on race day, with some closures starting at 6:30 AM and ending around 4 PM. Participants are encouraged to utilize public transport, specifically the Jubilee, Central, Northern, and Bakerloo lines, with the nearest Tube stations being Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, and Green Park.

Holly Dyson, who has a personal story of overcoming alcoholism, is among the participants aiming to raise awareness and funds for Alcohol Change UK. “I was told I was going to die: Woman running half marathon after beating alcoholism,” she stated, emphasizing the stigma surrounding alcohol addiction. Dyson’s participation is not only a personal challenge but also a call to action for others to support those struggling with addiction.

With the event drawing closer, the excitement builds as participants prepare for a day filled with athletic achievement and community spirit. The London Landmarks Half Marathon is not just a race; it is a celebration of resilience and the historic beauty of London.

As the date approaches, details regarding the event logistics and participant guidelines are expected to be confirmed. For those interested in supporting Holly and the Alcohol Change UK team, sponsorship opportunities are available at justgiving.com/campaign/alcoholchangeuklandmarkshalf2026.

In summary, the London Landmarks Half Marathon is set to be a significant event in 2026, showcasing both the city’s rich history and the inspiring stories of its participants. With road closures and public transport adjustments, the community is encouraged to engage with this vibrant event, which promises to be both impactful and memorable.

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Mo Farah, a name synonymous with distance running and Olympic glory, has captivated audiences worldwide with his extraordinary achievements. Born in Somaliland, Farah’s journey to becoming a four-time Olympic gold medallist is marked by both triumph and adversity. His real name, Hussein Abdi Kahin, was revealed in a BBC documentary titled The Real Mo Farah, which shed light on his harrowing past, including being brought to the UK illegally under another child’s name.

At the age of four, Farah faced a life-altering tragedy when his father was killed during the civil war in Somaliland. This traumatic experience shaped his childhood and ultimately influenced his path to success. Despite the challenges he faced, Farah’s dedication to athletics led him to achieve remarkable milestones, including his first Olympic double at the London 2012 Games and another double at Rio 2016.

As he prepares to return to I’m A Celebrity…South Africa in 2026, Farah’s presence in the show is expected to draw significant attention. His participation in the 2020 season of the reality show showcased his personality beyond the track, allowing fans to connect with him on a more personal level. Farah’s net worth is estimated to be between £3.75 million and £5 million, reflecting his successful career and endorsements.

In a recent statement, Farah expressed, “I’m not who you think I am,” highlighting the complexities of his identity and the struggles he has faced in sharing his true story. He remarked, “Family means everything to me and as a parent, you always teach your kids to be honest, but I feel like I’ve always had that private thing where I could never be me and tell what’s really happened.” This candidness resonates with many, as he navigates the challenges of fame while remaining true to his roots.

Farah’s return to the reality show is not without its challenges. Fellow contestant Ashley Roberts commented, “I’m still traumatised – probably more now than even before,” indicating the emotional toll that the competition can take on participants. Farah himself acknowledged the intensity of the experience, stating, “I’ve never been challenged that much.”

As observers anticipate his journey in the upcoming season, many are curious about how Farah will balance his celebrity status with the personal revelations he has shared. His commitment to his family, including his wife Tania Neill and their four children, remains a central focus in his life. The couple has been married since 2010, and their twins, Aisha and Amani, were born in 2012.

Looking ahead, Farah’s participation in I’m A Celebrity…South Africa is expected to further illuminate his story, providing a platform for him to share his experiences and inspire others. As he embarks on this new chapter, the public remains eager to see how he will navigate the challenges that lie ahead, both in the competition and in his personal life.

With Farah’s age set to be 43 in 2026, his journey continues to evolve, and his resilience serves as a testament to his character. As he prepares for the challenges of reality television, the world watches closely, eager to witness the next chapter in the life of Mo Farah.

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The park run at Vicar Water Country Park has seen a significant increase in participation, with 97 finishers recorded at Event #60 on March 21, 2026. Previously, expectations were modest, with local runs typically attracting fewer than 80 participants. This latest event not only surpassed that number but also showcased an enthusiastic community spirit.

The decisive moment came with the inclusion of a challenging course featuring a notable hill, The Clippomanjaro Climb, which added an extra layer of difficulty. Participants completed two laps on a trail that included mixed terrain, making it a unique experience for runners.

Among the 97 finishers, 53 were male and 43 were female, indicating a balanced participation across genders. The first finisher completed the run in an impressive time of 20 minutes and 18 seconds, while the Tail Walker finished in 1 hour, 11 minutes, and 14 seconds. Additionally, 12 participants achieved personal bests, demonstrating the competitive spirit of the event.

Volunteer support was robust, with 22 individuals assisting in various capacities, including marshaling and setting up the course. Notably, 9 participants took on dual roles as both runners and volunteers, further enhancing the community aspect of the event.

Paul Atkinson, a participant, remarked on the course’s beauty, stating, “I’m sure this hill must get mentioned in every run report – but is so spectacular it deserves another mention!” He also noted the mixed terrain and the friendly atmosphere, which contributed to the overall enjoyment of the event.

Despite overcast weather conditions, the event maintained a positive vibe, with Atkinson highlighting the views from the marshal’s location as lovely, even if obscured by clouds. This suggests that the park run is not just about competition but also about enjoying the natural surroundings.

The course’s historical significance, tracing an old railway line associated with the former Clipstone Colliery, adds an interesting layer to the event, connecting participants to the local heritage.

As park runs continue to gain traction, the success of this event at Vicar Water Country Park reflects a growing trend in community fitness initiatives. The combination of a challenging course, supportive volunteers, and enthusiastic participants is likely to encourage even more runners to join future events.

With 52 first-time participants, the park run is clearly reaching new audiences, and the excitement surrounding these events is palpable. The community’s response indicates a promising future for park runs in the area.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding plans for future events, but the positive feedback suggests that the park run will remain a staple in the local running calendar.

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The upcoming Berlin Half Marathon 2026, scheduled for March 29, 2026, raises the question: will this event see new records set by elite runners? With the recent performances of top athletes, the answer appears to be a resounding yes.

In the latest edition of the marathon, Andrea Kiptoo and Dennis Kipkemoi shared the men’s win, both finishing with remarkable times. Kiptoo clinched victory with a time of 59:11, while Kipkemoi closely followed. This year, the men’s race also featured Amanal Petros, who secured third place with a time of 59:22, setting a new German record.

On the women’s side, Likina Amebaw dominated the race, finishing first with a time of 1:05:07. Daisilah Jerono and Veronica Loleo followed, clocking in at 1:05:21 and 1:05:35, respectively. Esther Pfeiffer, the fastest European woman, achieved a personal best of 1:07:25, placing fifth.

The Berlin Half Marathon is renowned for attracting elite runners from around the globe, and the 2026 event is expected to continue this tradition. The previous race took place under cold but sunny conditions, which could contribute to fast times in the upcoming event.

As the date approaches, anticipation builds around the potential for new records, especially given the recent performances of these athletes. The marathon’s history of fast times and competitive fields sets the stage for an exciting race.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific line-up of athletes for 2026, but with the current crop of talent, spectators can expect a thrilling competition.

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The Sheffield Half Marathon 2026 raised an important question: how does a city event galvanize community spirit and athletic achievement? The answer is evident in the participation of roughly 7000 runners who took to the streets of Sheffield on March 29, 2026.

The race commenced and concluded at Arundel Gate, featuring a challenging route that included an Outdoor City hill climb followed by a thrilling 10K downhill sprint section. This unique course design not only tested the endurance of the participants but also showcased the city’s landscape.

Among the competitors, Samuel Moakes emerged victorious in the men’s category, clocking in at just under 67 minutes. His performance highlighted the competitive spirit that the Sheffield Half Marathon fosters among local and visiting athletes alike.

Notably, John Burkhill, affectionately known as the ‘Man with a Pram’, participated in the race to raise funds for charity, embodying the event’s community-focused ethos. His involvement, along with the support from families and friends lining the route, contributed to an uplifting atmosphere throughout the marathon.

Participants aged 17 and older were eligible to compete, ensuring a diverse range of runners from various backgrounds and skill levels. This inclusivity is a hallmark of the Sheffield Half Marathon, which has become a staple in the city’s sporting calendar.

The event also incorporates a ‘triple test’ format, designed to challenge runners in multiple aspects of their athletic abilities. This innovative approach has drawn attention and participation from a wide array of athletes.

As the marathon concluded, the excitement and energy of the day left many wondering what the future holds for this growing event. With increasing participation and community engagement, the Sheffield Half Marathon is poised to become an even more significant fixture in the annual sporting events of the region.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact plans for the next iteration of the marathon, but the enthusiasm generated by the 2026 event suggests that it will continue to thrive in the years to come.

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In an ambitious move, the London Marathon is considering transforming its traditional single-day event into a two-day spectacle in 2027. This proposed change could allow up to 100,000 amateur runners to participate over the weekend, significantly increasing accessibility and engagement with the event.

The potential for the two-day format is not just about participation; it is also expected to generate substantial charitable contributions. Organizers anticipate that the event could raise more than £130 million for various charities, building on the success of previous years where 56,540 finishers raised £87.3 million last year alone.

The elite men’s and women’s races would be staged on separate days, a move that aims to enhance the competitive atmosphere and provide a more focused viewing experience for spectators. This shift comes in the wake of record interest in the marathon, with 1.1 million people applying for the public ballot in 2026, reflecting a 36% increase from the previous year.

What observers say

“London is the sporting capital of the world and the Mayor looks forward to working with London Marathon and partners to consider if it might be possible to host an event that will run across two days next year,” commented a spokesperson for the Mayor of London, underscoring the city’s commitment to hosting world-class sporting events.

While the excitement builds around the proposed changes, it is important to note that the plan has not yet received formal approval. Details remain unconfirmed, leaving both participants and fans eagerly awaiting further announcements.

The London Marathon has been held annually since its inception almost 45 years ago, establishing itself as a cornerstone of the global running calendar. As it looks to innovate and expand, the potential two-day event could redefine the marathon experience for thousands of runners and spectators alike.

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Ore Oduba is preparing to run the TCS London Marathon on April 26, 2026, in memory of his late sister, Lola Oduba, who tragically died by suicide in April 2025. This decision marks a significant personal journey for Ore, who previously described running a marathon as an impossible task.

In the wake of his sister’s death, Ore’s perspective on life has shifted dramatically. He has committed to raising funds for the charity Smartphone Free Childhood, an organization dedicated to promoting healthier childhoods free from excessive screen time.

Ore, now 40 years old, has undergone months of rigorous training to prepare for the 26.2-mile marathon. He has expressed deep emotional ties to this event, stating, “Oh, my sister’s so proud of me,” reflecting the motivation behind his participation.

Before Lola’s passing, she found joy in running during the lockdown, which has inspired Ore to take on this challenge. He remarked, “I always said I’d never take on this challenge,” indicating the profound impact of his sister’s memory on his decision.

As the marathon approaches, Ore’s commitment to this cause has resonated with many, and he has received support from various quarters. He has stated, “I’m gonna have to run the bloody marathon for you, aren’t I?” showcasing his determination to honor his sister’s legacy.

Ore has made it clear that he does not intend to run the marathon annually, emphasizing the unique significance of this particular event. His journey is not just about completing a race but also about raising awareness and funds for mental health issues.

Observers note that Ore’s participation in the marathon is a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the impact of personal loss. His efforts are expected to inspire others to engage in conversations about mental health and support related charities.

As the date draws nearer, Ore’s story continues to capture the attention of the public, highlighting the intersection of personal grief and community action. His training and fundraising efforts are a testament to his resilience and commitment to making a difference.

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Sophie Raworth has showcased her impressive endurance by completing a challenging 55km mountain race in a time of 10 hours and 41 minutes. This achievement comes after her recovery from a broken ankle, which she sustained in 2024. The race featured a significant elevation gain of 2,450 metres, testing the limits of her physical and mental strength.

On the day of the race, temperatures reached 23 degrees Celsius, adding another layer of difficulty to the already strenuous course. Raworth’s determination was evident as she pushed through the demanding terrain, reflecting on her journey and the lessons learned along the way. “It turned out that I wasn’t too old,” she remarked, emphasizing her belief in the power of resilience.

In addition to her recent mountain race, Raworth has a history of impressive running accomplishments. She has completed all seven World Marathon Majors and participated in the grueling 150-mile Marathon des Sables in the Sahara Desert in 2018. Her commitment to running began in her late 30s, and since then, she has consistently pushed her boundaries.

After recovering from her ankle injury, Raworth returned to competitive running with a 5km Parkrun, finishing in 22:14. This time marks her fastest 5km in two years, showcasing her ability to transition back into shorter, faster races after long-distance events. She expressed, “It’s not just the physical strength I’ve gained, it’s the mental fortitude, too,” highlighting the holistic benefits of her running journey.

In 2025, Raworth logged an impressive 1,311.7 miles, a testament to her dedication and training regimen. Her choice of footwear, the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5, is noted for its lightweight design and cushioned sole, which likely contributed to her performance during the mountain race.

Reflecting on her experiences, Raworth stated, “Most of all, running has taught me I’m capable of more than I thought.” At 55, she feels stronger than ever, stating, “At 55, my body is stronger than I ever imagined.” This mindset not only inspires her but also resonates with many who face challenges in their own fitness journeys.

Looking ahead, Sophie Raworth is currently training for the London Marathon scheduled for April 26, 2026. Details remain unconfirmed regarding her preparation and oversight following her ankle injury, as well as the specific training load and pacing strategies she employs to transition between ultra distances and faster 5km efforts. Observers are eager to see how she continues to evolve as an athlete in the coming months.

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