Growing from 20,000 competitors in 2019, Manchester’s biggest ever marathon will welcome 32,000 runners of all abilities to the city next month, to test themselves against an improved 26.2-mile course which incorporates Manchester’s iconic city centre for the very first time.
The increased scale and ambition of 2021’s event means even more opportunities for local groups and businesses to get involved, support a major physical and mental wellbeing initiative in the city, as well as gaining valuable experience, enjoyment and recognition from volunteering.
Following a flurry of volunteer registrations from businesses and community groups across the city, Booths Supermarket has this week signed as official ‘Volunteer Partner’ to the event. Booths will supply packed lunches to all event stewards on the day and is offering £500 in vouchers to one lucky organisation registering volunteers – to be used as part of charitable and CSR initiatives.
Among the rewarding opportunities on offer this year, volunteers can play an essential role in directing runners along the route; handing out medals; and ensuring runners stay hydrated at water stations. No prior stewarding experience is necessary, anyone over the age of 16 can register themselves, and 11-16 year olds are welcome to take part if accompanied by a supervising adult.
Earlier this month Therme Group – the team behind Manchester’s first city-based wellbeing resort – signed up as title sponsors for the event, citing a shared commitment with marathon organisers Human Race Ltd to promote healthy, active lifestyles across the city.
The Therme Manchester Marathon welcomes runners of all abilities from some of the world’s elites, to those who thought completing a marathon would never be possible. Fundraising from participants is expected to raise more than £5m for charitable causes, including event partners Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Research UK, The Christie, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, WWF and Sense.
Nick Rusling, CEO of Human Race said: “Manchester is already one of the flattest and fastest marathons, but we also want it to be known as the friendliest and most fun. Our fantastic volunteers play a huge role in making the event so unique and warmly welcoming the world to Manchester.
“Delivering an iconic event of this scale wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and enthusiasm of our volunteers on the day, whether they’re cheering runners along the route, handing out medals at the finish line or keeping people safely hydrated at one of our numerous water stations.
“We’re delighted that Booths has joined as our official volunteering partner, providing healthy meals for all our staff on the day and offering such a generous prize to one large group joining our volunteer team.”
Booths is a community spirited retailer with 27 stores across the North of England and working closely with suppliers to form strong and lasting relationships, ensuring the sustainability of British agriculture and the environment for future generations.
Nigel Murray, Chief Operating Officer at Booths, said: “We’re delighted to partner with the Therme Manchester Marathon, it’s shaping up to be a great day out for both runners and volunteers raising valuable funds for charity.”
You can find out more about Therme Manchester Marathon’s diverse volunteering opportunities here, with answers to most frequently asked questions here. Any larger groups or organisations keen to get involved should email volunteers@humanrace.co.uk.
