ORGANISERS of the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon have hailed a day of thrilling sporting achievement, first class entertainment and incredible crowd support.

The marathon was officially started at 9am on Sunday under the Trafford Arch by Manchester running legend Ron Hill and ASICS ambassador and athlete Mara Yamauchi, and saw thousands of runners begin their 26.2-mile challenge to the cheers of thousands of spectators.

The race attracted athletes of all ages and abilities, from first time marathon runners and charity runners to club runners and elite athletes seeking a personal best or qualifying time on the fast course. Among these was a top quality British elite field attracted by the generous British and Irish only prize fund.

Patrick Martin of Stockport Harriers put in a fantastic performance on his marathon debut and claimed the winning title after crossing the finish line in a time of 2:22:37

The women’s field was dominated by Georgie Bruinvels of Aldershot, Farnham andDistrict Athletics Club, who returned to Manchester to reclaim her title from 2015. She secured the win with a time of 2:37:03.

Many runners were raising money for the official charities including Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Research UK, Save the Children, the Christie charity and Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity.

Race director Simon Hill said: “The 2017 ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon has been a great success, and we would like to congratulate all the runners who crossed the finish line. The atmosphere was superb, the entertainment was outstanding and it was very clear why this is known as one of the country’s friendliest marathons. We would like to thank all the wonderful spectators who cheered the runners on the whole way round, as well as our wonderful marshals and volunteers.

“It’s fantastic to hear that the flat and fast course saw many athletes smash their targets and achieve a PB. A big thank you also goes to our title sponsor ASICS and to our other sponsors for their continued support, as well as to all the charities and local communities who have contributed to the success of this year’s event. We are looking forward to seeing everyone again next spring!”

Joanne Hyde, corporate director for resources at Trafford Council, said: “It was a fantastic day with a real buzz in the air. On behalf of Trafford Council I congratulate all those who took part on the day and I hope that spectators and participants alike enjoyed coming to our borough, seeing our sites and our hospitality at Trafford Town Hall which was host to many spectators next to the finish line.”

The Athlete’s Village was located at Emirates Old Trafford, the home of Lancashire County Cricket Club, where the AIMS-accredited ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon culminated in a glorious finish. The 26.2-mile route took in Sale, Brooklands, Timperley, Altrincham, Urmston and Stretford.