Manchester Made: Barbara Leonard
As the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run returns to the city streets on 31 May, we’re celebrating the incredible Manchester Made participants which make the event what it is, each with their own story, reflecting the rich history, diversity and spirit of the city.
Meet 71-year-old Barbara Leonard, who has an impressive track record having completed every Great Manchester Run since it started. A truly dedicated runner, it’s a remarkable achievement and one that she is immensely proud of:
“I’m proud to have all my medals – from the first year it started to the present day. When I started it was just a one-off, but somehow it has become a part of me!”
Since the inaugural event in 2003, she’s seen the number of runners grow into the thousands and believes it’s the atmosphere that makes the Great Manchester Run so special:
“It’s the crowds that get you around the course,” she says. “As well as the stewards, the bands and the charity groups of people encouraging you.”
Over the years, Barbara has run for a variety of charities but, more recently, her motivation has become more personal after her eldest daughter was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. Sadly, the cancer has spread, but thanks to the wonderful care and treatment of The Christie Hospital, supported by The Christie Charity, she is currently stable.
In honour of this, Barbara will once again be running for The Christie , alongside three of her grandchildren, continuing their fundraising efforts after taking part together last year.
For Barbara, the Great Manchester Run has become a tradition: “I have to participate every single year now… I’m 71 years old and still going strong!”
The 2026 AJ Bell Great Manchester Run is SOLD OUT. If you missed this year, you can sign up to our priority access list for next year’s event here.
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