Manchester Made: Rebecca Broadbent
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 Rebecca Broadbent, a passionate runner and community champion gearing up to take on the Great Manchester Run 10k alongside a group of 10-12 women from her run club.
Originally from Surrey, Rebecca, 43, now lives in Sale and proudly considers herself an honorary Manc, having called Manchester home since 2006. Her business, which focuses on building women’s confidence and helping them get fit, is the driving force behind her participation this year:
“For many of the runners in my club, it’s their first 10k or their first big event, so it’s an amazing thing to be part of their journey – helping them achieve something they never quite thought possible.”
Rebecca is no stranger to big events, having also completed the Great North Run in 2021. A regular at the Great Manchester Run, she describes it as one of her absolute favourites on the calendar. It’s not just the run itself, but the electric atmosphere and the thousands of people lining the streets that keep her coming back year after year.
Led by Rebecca, the group she’ll be running with will follow an eight-week training plan as they prepare for the event. She’s most excited about supporting others to reach 10k for the first time. With many of the group being mums, she believes it offers a powerful personal goal – something just for them, and an achievement to be proud of.
Rebecca has said to her group: “Just go for it – train well, embrace the incredible atmosphere, take as many high fives as you can from spectators along the route, don’t set off too quickly, and make the most of finishing on Deansgate. And don’t rush home afterwards – stay and enjoy the buzz of the city post-run!”
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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