Contact: Chris Lee
Tel: 0161 234 3275


A WELCOME RETURN FOR THE MANCHESTER MARATHON

October 16, 2002 - Spectators came out in force on Sunday 13 October to
support the serious athletes, fun runners and charity fundraisers who
took part in the 7th Manchester Marathon.

Hundreds of people lined the streets as the Manchester Marathon returned
to its traditional park-to-park course beginning at Heaton Park, North
Manchester and following a route to the east of the city centre to its
finish in Wythenshawe Park, South Manchester.

Over 800 participants completed the Marathon with many providing a much
needed boost for local charities through their individual fundraising
activities.

Belle Vue racer Rachel Potter has her sights set on the 2004 Paralympic
Games in Athens after victory in the wheelchair event. Potter, a 27-year-old
from New Moston, improved her personal best by over 20 minutes as she
crossed the line at Wythenshawe Park in 2:05:56.

Newcomers Tomas Abyu and Pauline Powell celebrated their 26 mile debuts with
victory in the men’s and women’s races. England international Powell was a
comprehensive winner in 2hrs 46 mins 28 seconds and broke the course record
by over two minutes. Ethiopian born Abyu finished outside the men’s course
record, but was delighted with his win.

A strong contingent of former Commonwealth Games volunteers were amongst
those who filled a variety of crucial roles such as race marshalls and
water station attendants during the event. Medical cover was provided by
St. John Ambulance and the Greater Manchester Ambulance Service. Greater
Manchester Police assisted with a programme of rolling road closures which
was implemented to provide a positive, safe experience for runners and
spectators whilst causing minimal inconvenience to residents, businesses
and motorists.

Councillor Glynn Evans, Manchester City Council’s Executive Member for
Culture & Leisure, said : " This year’s Marathon has been a fantastic event.
Our congratulations and thanks go to everyone who contributed to a great
day - the runners, supporters and all those who have worked tirelessly to
ensure the smooth running of the marathon."

Paul Mee, from Manchester Leisure, Organisers of the Marathon, said: "We are
absolutely delighted with this year’s event. We would like to extend a big
thank you to everyone who came out to support the runners and the many
people who played such a crucial role in the staging of a successful event."

Official charities of the Manchester Marathon are the Rainbow Family Trust
and Street to Stadium. The Manchester Marathon is fully accredited by the
Amateur Athletics Federation. Official supporters of the Marathon are the
Manchester Evening News, Lathom Self Drive and GMPTE.

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