A record-breaking 32,000 people took part in the adidas Manchester Marathon on Sunday (April 14) in the name of chasing personal bests and raising money for charity. As the UK's second largest marathon - and known as one of the flatter courses - the annual event saw Manchester play host to thousands from across the country, and even the world. With a long history dating back to 1908, the annual event has become a popular event for runners, whether they're pros or first-time marathoners.

Runners completed a 26.2 mile route that passes through the city centre as well as towns including Altrincham, Trafford and Chorlton-Cum-Hardy. The streets Where lined with spectators, with more than 125,000 people showing up and offering their support

Notable achievements where Helen Anthony's new club record ladies marathon FV45 and Duncan and Kim Knight's and Michael Border's first marathon.

Helen Anthony 03:08:59 Position 1718, Duncan Knight 03:38:57, Michael Border 04:15:48 12124, Robert Faulkner 04:18:33 12552, Allen Taylor 04:18:56 12602, Kim Knight 04:23:32 13324, Sophie Thomson 05:04:21 18506

Kim quoted, "We had a fantastic day , support en route was amazing ! The weather was kind and the million dollar question, will we do another one"

Michael said "My first marathon, I completed it in 4 hours 15 minutes which I was delighted with as before I joined the trotters last year I would not have thought I could run a marathon!"

One of those spectators Ryan Anthony also quoted:

Nice event well organised with the event Village at Old Trafford cricket ground.

32000 started the event, I think they stated it was the 3rd largest field in European marathons

Brisk cold headwind in the first half of the race but good conditions other than that.

Well done all.

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Back for a 4th year in 2024. The Sid Valley Ring Half Marathon follows the newly created Sid Valley Ring walking route.

With an “uphill start”,and 2,000 feet of ascent, the route takes you through quiet country lanes and footpaths and climbs to a height of 236m, before dropping down into the pretty village of Sidbury. Another section of back lanes lead's to the tiny hamlet of Harcombe, the “Valley of Hares”, just before a steep climb towards Dunscombe cliffs and the coast path. Stunning views along here across Lyme Bay, stretching as far as Portland and Berry Head. A short excursion inland takes you through the picturesque village of Salcombe Regis, a woodland section, and back to the coast path. With stunning views on the final downhill section to Sidmouth.

Sam quoted:

"The sun came out for the 4th running of the Sid Valley Ring Half Marathon yesterday, though there was sufficient mud remaining on the course to remind you that it was a trail run :). The scenic course has an uphill start through quiet country lanes to a height of 236m, it then makes its way up and down some very steep hills to the coast path. Though the views from the coast path makes the effort worthwhile and there is a down hill section as you re enter Sidmouth.

Wonderful organisation by Climb South West, the course was well marked, marshals fantastic and all rounded up nicely with a slice of homemade cake at the end. All in all a great day out".

Tim said " I decided to run it quite hard, unlike some of my recent trail events, and was delighted to finish 22nd out of 96 "

First Trotter home was Tim Synge in 02:17:37 22th Ruth Johnson 03:04:11 66th Samantha Galvin 03:09:16 71st Sara Keatley 03:26:00 82nd

There were 96 finishers

Tim came second in the Vets 60-64 and Ruth came 3rd in the Vets 55-59 group .