top of page
< Back

21.1 Kilometres Run and £450 Raised; Imogen's Memorable Day At The Great Manchester Run

For many runners, signing up for a half marathon can feel daunting. For Imogen, Fundraising Communications Manager at Together Dementia Support, it was a challenge that pushed her beyond anything she had done before. After completing the Great Manchester Run 10K three years in a row, she decided it was time to take the next step.

For many runners, signing up for a half marathon can feel daunting. For Imogen, Fundraising Communications Manager at Together Dementia Support, it was a challenge that pushed her beyond anything she had done before. After completing the Great Manchester Run 10K three years in a row, she decided it was time to take the next step. This year, she swapped the familiar 10K distance for her first-ever half marathon, raising money for a cause close to her heart while proving to herself that she could go further than ever before. She joins Tim Rogers on this Sapphire Running Zone podcast and shares her training and fundraising experiences. Have a listen to the podcast here Taking on a New Challenge Imogen describes herself as someone who has "dabbled" in running rather than a dedicated runner. After completing Couch to 5K during lockdown and 10K events, she felt ready for something bigger. "I'd done the Great Manchester Run 10K three times, and I thought I couldn't really do it a fourth year because it wasn't a challenge anymore," she explained. The half marathon represented a significant leap. Before training for the event, she had never run further than 10 kilometres. Training for a First Half Marathon With a 12-week training plan in hand, Imogen set about preparing for race day. While the plan gave her structure, she quickly discovered that accountability was one of the biggest factors in staying consistent. "The long training runs can get a bit lonely, so I'd definitely say run with a friend if you do have one you can run with." Fortunately, she had support from her colleague Mary, who had previously completed the Manchester Marathon. Together, they tackled the long runs, making the training journey more enjoyable and helping each other stay motivated through Manchester's unpredictable weather. Her advice for first-time half marathon runners is simple: Follow a structured training plan. Find someone to train with. Use accountability tools such as apps, playlists, or running groups. Don't underestimate the mental side of long-distance training. Race Day Excitement Unlike many runners chasing ambitious time goals, Imogen approached the race with a refreshing mindset. She wasn't focused on finishing within a particular time. Instead, her objective was simply to complete the distance and enjoy the experience. The atmosphere in the start area helped calm any nerves. Surrounded by colleagues and friends, the morning felt more exciting than intimidating. The Great Manchester Run Experience Imogen knew she could expect excellent organisation and enthusiastic crowds. The first half of the route proved tougher than anticipated, featuring more hills than many people associate with Manchester. However, once the course joined the familiar 10K route, the atmosphere changed dramatically. Music, entertainment, charity cheer points, and packed crowds created an energy boost exactly when runners needed it most. "Everyone came together. It was just such a lovely atmosphere." As fatigue began to creep in during the final kilometres, the crowd support became invaluable. Hearing strangers shout her name and cheer runners on helped carry her through the toughest moments of the race. Crossing the Finish Line For many runners, the finish line is about more than simply stopping the clock. It's the culmination of months of training, dedication, and perseverance. Imogen experienced that emotional moment firsthand. As she approached the finish, her legs were tiring, but the energy from the spectators pushed her forward. In fact, her fastest split of the race came in the closing stages. "It was quite emotional. I didn't cry, but I almost did." The achievement wasn't just about completing 21.1 kilometres. It was about proving to herself that she could do something she had never done before. Imogen (on the right) and friend enjoy a drink post-race Raising £450 for Together Dementia Support Alongside the running challenge, Imogen was fundraising for the charity she works for, Together Dementia Support, a Manchester-based charity that provides friendship groups, dementia cafés, one-to-one support, and training for people living with dementia and their carers. By race day, she had raised an impressive £450. One of the biggest surprises was how much support arrived at the last minute. Nearly £100 was donated on race day alone. Her fundraising strategy focused on simple, consistent communication: Sharing her story on her fundraising page. Posting updates on social media. Adding her fundraising link to her email signature. Sending reminders before and on race day. Most importantly, she wasn't afraid to ask. "Just don't be shy about it. You're fundraising for an amazing cause, not for yourself." Interestingly, Imogen estimates that around 90% of her fundraising total came from sharing her appeal through WhatsApp groups with friends, family, and community contacts. If you'd like to join Imogen and run the Great Manchester Run next May for Together Dementia Support you can find out more here Lessons for Other Fundraisers Imogen's experience highlights several valuable lessons for anyone considering a charity challenge: Choose a challenge that genuinely stretches you. Share your personal story and motivation. Use WhatsApp groups as a fundraising tool. Send reminders—people often intend to donate but simply forget. Don't underestimate the impact of race-day fundraising posts. What's Next? Having successfully completed her first half marathon, Imogen isn't ruling out future events. While she's not quite ready to commit to a marathon, she is already thinking about another half marathon and improving her time. This time, however, the goal was simply to finish, enjoy the day, and stay injury-free. For Imogen, the Great Manchester Run wasn't just about running 21.1 kilometres. It was about community, fundraising, personal achievement, and discovering that she was capable of more than she thought. Judging by her experience, it won't be her last time crossing a finish line. Have a listen to the podcast here

imogen-at-the-great-manchester-run

bottom of page