Olympic legend Sir Mo Farah is to race in this year's Great Manchester Run, it has been confirmed. The four-time gold medallist, who this week celebrated his 39th birthday, will line-up on at the event for the first time since he claimed victory at the event four years ago.
He failed to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, held last year, but insisted afterwards he would not be retiring. And looking ahead to the race in May he said the injury problems which had plagued him during the last year were now behind him.
“Training has been going well and I am happy with the shape I am showing," he said. “Any time I race in the UK it is exciting for me because I love running in front of my home fans and I want to give my best for them. I had an amazing reception in Manchester when I won the event in 2018 so I’m looking forward to racing on the streets of the city again later this year.”
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In 2018, Sir Mo triumphed over Ugandan Moses Kipsiro in a memorable sprint finish with 100 metres to go, winning the 10km in a time of 28 minutes 27 seconds.
This year he will be competing against fellow Brit and the runner-up of the 2021 staging of the event, Andy Butchart. Butchart will be looking to go one better at this year’s Manchester 10K after setting a new Scottish record over the distance on the track earlier this month.
However, the pair will face stiff competition from Australian Stewart McSweyn, three-time Oceanic record holder, and four-time Diamond League winner.
The fast, flat 10k route which Sir Mo will again tackle begins on Portland Street in Manchester city centre, heading out towards Salford Quays and past Old Trafford, before doubling back to finish on Deansgate.
There is also a half marathon, which also starts at Portland Street and heads out over Mancunian Way towards the Etihad Stadium before doubling back towards Salford Quays, also ending at Deansgate.
Chairman of the Great Run Company, Sir Brendan Foster said, “We’re thrilled that Sir Mo will be returning to the Great Manchester Run this year and we’re looking forward to an exciting elite race in the 10K.
“I know it’s his birthday today, so a big happy birthday to Mo, but having him back on the streets of Manchester will be a gift for everyone who comes out to cheer him on and everyone watching at home.”
The Great Manchester Run is open to runners of all ages and abilities, with entertainment zones at every kilometre and organisers saying it boasts some of the best and loudest crowd support at road race anywhere in the world. Entry costs £42 for the 10K and £49 for the half marathon. For more information or to sign up click here.
