Olympic legend Sir Mo Farah will race in the Great Manchester Run this May for the final time.
The four-time gold medallist, who took part in the event last year, will retire from elite competition after the AJ Bell Great North Run in September. He also raced in the event in 2018, when he triumphed over Ugandan Moses Kipsiro in a memorable sprint finish with 100 metres to go, winning in a time of 28 minutes 27 seconds.
Farah said: “There is something incredibly special about racing in Manchester, the support from the city for me has always been phenomenal. I’m looking forward to seeing the crowds out on the streets and the thousands of other runners who will be running the half marathon and 10k.
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“It will probably be quite emotional, but I’m so happy to have the chance to race in Manchester again before I retire.”
Founder of the Great Run Company, Sir Brendan Foster said, “We’re delighted Mo will be back in Manchester in May, and we’re looking forward to a memorable elite race. Mo is an icon of British sport; he has achieved incredible things over his remarkable career and the British public have really taken him to their hearts.
“We’re honoured he has chosen the AJ Bell Great North Run as his last ever race. I know the people of Manchester and the North East will take these opportunities to come out and support him one last time, in recognition of the incredible performances he’s given us over the years.”
2023 marks the 20th Great Manchester Run and there is still time to sign up if you fancy it yourself. With the options of a 10k or Half Marathon challenge, runners will begin on the Portland Street start line, passing Manchester landmarks and will finish at Deansgate.
Expect live music and entertainment zones at every turn, roaring charity cheering squads, and locals embodying the Mancunian spirit as they enthuse the athletes.
The Great Manchester Run will take place on Sunday, May 21.
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