Excitement is building ahead of the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run on Sunday 18 May, as organisers reveal a stellar elite line-up featuring returning champions, Olympic gold medallists and rising stars ready to light up the streets of Manchester.

Kenya’s Vincent Ngetich and Ethiopia’s Gotytom Gebreslase, the 2024 men’s and women’s champions respectively, are back to defend their crowns in what promises to be a blockbuster edition of the UK’s biggest 10K. Ngetich clocked an impressive 27:25 last year, just one second off the course record, and arrives in strong form after a podium finish at the Tokyo Marathon.

Joining him is Ethiopia’s Selemon Barega, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic 10,000m gold medallist, making his first road 10K appearance outside Ethiopia. Also debuting in Manchester is his compatriot Deresa Geleta, fresh from finishing second in Tokyo.

In the women’s race, Gebreslase will face an exceptional field. Three-time Great Manchester Run winner and Olympic bronze medallist Hellen Obiri returns, alongside Kenya’s Rosemary Wanjiru and Ethiopia’s Medina Eisa — who leads the world rankings this year with a blistering 29:25. Former champion Vivian Cheruiyot also adds further depth to a stacked field.

British hopes will be led by Verity Ockenden, who recently posted a 31:35 PB, and Tokyo Olympian Alex Bell. AJ Bell’s CMO Stephen Vowles said: “Seeing some of the sport’s top talent on the streets of our home city is inspiring. It’s a celebration of community, athleticism, and Manchester’s sporting spirit.”

With the Half Marathon already sold out and 10K entries close behind, organisers are encouraging anyone still hoping to take part to enter now and be part of this unforgettable day of sport.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Great Run website.

Image: Great Run Company