Jon Rowell, Alan Clarke and Benji Carter smash personal bests over 26 miles

The ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon is one of the UK’s premier running events, famous for its fast and friendly route.

The organisers pride themselves on welcoming all to take on the 26.2-mile challenge, from some of the world’s greatest elite runners, to those who thought completing a marathon would never be possible – with 20,000 runners of all abilities achieving the challenge on Sunday.

Fenland Running Club had eight entrants, four of whom were making their marathon debut after months of training.

First home was Steve Bennington and first female Lucy Hicks – both completing their first marathons!

Other first-timers were Chris Anderson and Charlee Griffith. Jon Rowell, Alan Clarke and Benji Carter absolutely smashed it with personal bests of 17 minutes, 40 mins and 31 mins respectively.

However, after fantastic training and on track for a 3:27 personal best, Nicky Jennings ran over a grill in the road just past 20 miles and tore her hamstring, leaving her no choice but to pull out.

She was obviously gutted.

Sunday also saw Sally and Ian King take part in the Run For All Lincoln 10k for the fourth consecutive year.

This year’s race attracted more than 4,500 runners, finishing next to the historic Lincoln Cathedral.

Sally finished in 1 hour 27 minutes. Ian set himself a new course PB of 49 minutes 21 seconds.

Press report: Sarah Gauvin/Ian King

Full Manchester results: Steve Bennington 3:28:11 (MD), Jon Rowell 3:59:52 (PB), Alan Clarke 4:02:58 (PB), Chris Anderson 4:41:45 (MD), Benji Carter 5:18:02 (PB), Lucy Hicks 5:26:32 (MD) and Charlee Griffith 6:40:07 (MD).