Manchester 21k set to impress with top domestic fields on super-flat course

Robbie Simpson (handicap -4.4)  will target glory at the Manchester Half Marathon on Sunday, with two of the North West's finest runners, Matt Clowes (handicap  -5.0) and Jack Morris (handicap -4.5) also out to impress. 

The Manchester Half Marathon, is one of the flattest 13.1-mile (21k) races with just over 40 metres of elevation towards the end, which will suit international mountain runners Clowes and Simpson. This course is designed for fast running.

Robbie Simpson (pictured), who clocked 2:15:04 at this year's London Marathon and achieved the consideration standard for the Commonwealth Games, heads the entry in the men’s field. Simpson had to withdraw from the summer World Championships with an injury, but on Sunday will be hoping to impress Commonwealth Games selectors. Luke Traynor (handicap  -5.6) of Glasgow City is also one to watch who will hope for a successful half marathon debut, after posting a 10,000m personal best of 29:08 this year.

Other strong entries include Matt Clowes from Cheddleton, Jack Morris of Stockport Harriers and Richard Weir (handicap  -4.4) of Derby AC.

Favourites in the women’s race include Kate Reed of Bristol & West who won her debut race over the distance in February in a very impressive 73:44 at the Tallahassee Half Marathon. Rebecca Hilland (handicap  0.8) of Team Bath is targeting the Frankfurt Marathon and will be looking at improving her best of 1:15:38. Julie Briscoe (handicap  1.2), a previous Wilmslow 21k winner with a best time of 1:13:28, returns to her road running roots after making her GB debut this summer and is expected to feature at the sharp end of the race.

Good luck to all who race this weekend !