Purplewave Great Manchester Run 2025!
Countdown to race day! All the important information you need.
We’re delighted to have you on board for the Purplewave as we prepare for the 10K event on 18 May! Your dedication and enthusiasm contribute to the vibrant spirit of this event, making it a memorable occasion for our university and the city of Manchester. We can’t wait to witness the sea of purple flooding the streets, embodying the unity and pride that define The University of Manchester.
Led by UoM Sport, the PurpleWave brings people together through fun activities and shared experiences. This is your one-stop shop for key info, updates, and tips to help you along the way. Don’t forget to wear your PurpleWave T-shirt on the day with pride!
This year’s focus is the 10K event; discounted half-marathon tickets will not be available through UoM Sport.
Moving for a cause—fundraising
This year, Purplewave fundraisers have a choice of two amazing causes:
Help find life-saving solutions to cancer
Cancer continues to destroy thousands of lives every day. But solutions to this awful disease could be just around the corner. Groundbreaking cancer research is happening at The University of Manchester. By fundraising today, you can help bring more bright minds to world-class facilities like the Paterson Building – one of the Europe’s largest cancer research facilities. You will be supporting research that matters to us all.
Help the students who need it most
Over the last few years, the cost of being a student has skyrocketed. The cost-of-living crisis hasn’t gone away; it’s been accepted as the new norm. But the number of students under increased financial pressure is not sustainable. By fundraising today, you can make sure The University of Manchester remains a place where the best and brightest can thrive – no matter their circumstances.
Purplewave tickets
Booking tickets for our event is a breeze; head over to the Students’ Union website. There, you have the flexibility to select the ticket that suits you. Should you decide to switch gears and embrace the role of a fundraiser, we’re delighted to accommodate the change by seamlessly transferring your ticket to a complimentary fundraising option.
If you have friends or family who wish to join you and have a ticket from Great Run, they will need to request a transfer by completing the form.
Your training guide
Boost your confidence and access our training guides today! Our tailored plans will help you achieve your goals and feel unstoppable on race day.
Your token and race number
Runners participating in the 10K will have this information soon.
T-shirt collection
We’ll provide all the details shortly. You can collect your T-shirt at the Students’ Union foyer between 11:30 pm and 1:30 pm on Thursdays throughout April and May 2025.
Address: University of Manchester Students’ Union, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PR. Number 68 on the Interactive Map.
| Date | Location | Time |
| 3 April 2025 | Foyer 3: Students’ Union | 11:30 – 13:30 |
| 10 April 2025 | Foyer 2: Students’ Union | 11:30 – 13:30 |
| 17 April 2025 | Foyer 2: Students’ Union | 11:30 – 13:30 |
| 24 April 2025 | Foyer 2: Students’ Union | 11:30 – 13:30 |
| 1 May 2025 | Foyer 2: Students’ Union | 11:30 – 13:30 |
| 8 May 2025 | Foyer 2: Students’ Union | 11:30 – 13:30 |
| 15 May 2025 | Foyer 2: Students’ Union | 11:30 – 13:30 |
Meet point
We’re currently finalising the details for the Purplewave meet point and will share more information soon. This central hub will be the perfect spot to gather before the race, meet up with friends or teammates, and soak up the pre-race atmosphere. It will also host key services like race-day check-in, last-minute T-shirt collection, and participant support. Stay tuned for updates!
Start time
The Great Run has announced a provisional start time of 12:50 PM for the 10K Purplewave. We will provide updates on the exact timing and meeting point once confirmed. Please check back for the latest information.
Volunteering for Purplewave events
We’re seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help ensure everything runs smoothly on the big day! Whether you’d like to assist with event setup and breakdown or cheer on participants along the course, there’s a role for everyone. Explore all volunteer opportunities and sign up here.
Find out more
Contact Us
+44 (0)161 529 4444
sport@manchester.ac.uk
