Etihad Stadium to play host to thousands of winter runners once again

After a successful debut and a fantastically warm welcome from the city in 2016, the Cancer Research UK Manchester Winter Run will return to the Etihad Campus on Sunday 12^th February 2017. The race, which last year attracted over 3,000 runners, features a 10km run as its main event, with 5km and 2.5km distances ensuring that runners of all abilities and ages are catered for. An array of winter-themed zones will guarantee a fantastic atmosphere on the course, with new experiences being added to those familiar from the 2016 event.

At a time of year when staying fit and active can be particularly difficult, the race is perfectly positioned in the calendar to motivate people to run through the winter months. For many participants, the event will be their first big running event, whilst for more seasoned runners it will be their first major race of 2017 or a crucial step on their journey to completing a spring marathon, either in the North West or further afield.

Regardless of their running experience, thousands will use the event to raise vital funds for Cancer Research UK and help beat cancer sooner. Participants in last year’s Cancer Research UK Manchester Winter Run raised tens of thousands of pounds to support the charity’s life-saving work in the region and across the country.

Clive Sanders, Head of Events at Cancer Research UK, said: “The Winter Run is such a fun way to help give cancer the cold shoulder. Half of people diagnosed with the disease now survive. But half is not enough. That’s why we need as many people as possible to sign up and raise vital funds for research which will save the lives of more, men women and children.

“Our aim is that one day everyone will beat cancer. The more research we fund, the sooner that day will come.”

The themed experiences that proved so popular at last year’s event will be back to transform the route into a winter wonderland. Runners will again enjoy an exhilarating snow blast-off to set them on their way, with a Penguin Party and Swiss Chalet Drinks Station on the course to keep energy levels high. Polar Bear Hugs, an instant favourite at last year’s event, will return to congratulate triumphant runners as they cross the finish line. Exciting new on-course experiences are set to be announced later in the year.

The Cancer Research UK Manchester Winter is organised by Human Race, the UK’s largest mass-participation sports event company. Human Race CEO, Nick Rusling, said this about the event “After the incredible reception the people of Manchester gave us last year, we are absolutely thrilled to be returning in February 2017. It’s an honour to witness the impact the event has in motivating people to keep fit at this time of year. I was blown away by the energy and generosity of the people of the North West when it came to fundraising for Cancer Research UK at last year’s event, and can’t wait to see runners giving the cancer the cold shoulder once again.”

Entries for the Cancer Research UK Manchester Winter Run are now open. Entries are available at a special ‘early bird’ price until the end of November. For more information, full route details and to enter, visit www.londonwinterwander.co.uk.