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
All token emails have been sent out – please see the details on your newsletter for information about this.
T-shirt collection
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.
Note: You must have redeemed your token before you can collect your T-shirt. If you are unable to collect yourself you can send a friend or colleague to collect on your behalf.
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
This year we will be going Purple and Orange and we all meet up at the Sugden Centre before the event. Access to the Purple / Orange hall will be available from 10:00. In the hall, you will be able to access:
- Changing rooms and toilets
- Water
- Baggage drop (closes for collection at 16:00)
- Games area for warm up and chill out area for meeting friends
- Meet your pacer – if you are aiming for a time 45 mins to 70 mins
- Photos of the groups: 11:00 with departure to start line at 11:30 for our group line up and warm up
Start time
Our expected start time is 12:50 from Princess Street.
- 11:00 – 11:30: Photos near Sugden.
- 11:30 – 12:00: Walk to holding area.
- 12:15 – 12:25: File onto start line area.
- 12:25 – 12:45: Official wave warm up.
- 12:50: Wave start time.
- 16:00: Bag collection from Sugden closes.
Important: To receive your number and race park in the post before the event you MUST have redeemed your token online by the 9 May, 2025.
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
