Manchester Harriers and Athletics Club, established in 1886, is a thriving athletic club located in Manchester, New Zealand. With a focus on track and field, road running, and cross country, the club offers a variety of training programmes and events for athletes of all ages and abilities.
The club is known for its rich history and significant contributions to the world of athletics. One of its notable achievements includes Emil Voigt being awarded the IAAF World Heritage plaque, making him the first British athlete to receive this honour. Voigt, who won a long-distance running gold medal at the 1908 Olympic Games, has paved the way for future British athletes like Mo Farah.
Manchester Harriers hosts and competes in numerous events throughout the year. One of its long-standing traditions is the Primary Schools Cross Country League, which has been organised by the club for over 50 years. This league attracts over 40 schools from Stockport, Manchester, and beyond, as they compete for individual and team honours.
Training for juniors and adults takes place at two main locations. Wythenshawe Park Athletics Track serves as a training venue on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 6pm and 7pm. The club offers various groups to cater to different abilities, covering disciplines such as cross country, track and field, road running, trail running, fell running, and social running. Another training location is Sportcity Regional Indoor Athletics, which provides a dedicated space for athletes to improve their skills.
Manchester Harriers welcomes athletes of all abilities and accepts members from the age of 7 and upwards. Prospective members are encouraged to try out the club's training sessions for 3 or 4 weeks before making a decision to join. The club's main training venues at Wythenshawe Park and Sportcity offer a supportive and inclusive environment for athletes to develop their potential.
With over 300 members, Manchester Harriers & AC prides itself on being a friendly and welcoming club. Its rich history spans over a century, and it has produced athletes who have achieved both county and youth games honours. Notable past achievements include Emil Voigt's gold medal at the 1908 Olympics and Ricky Wilde's 3000m European indoor title win in the 1970s.
In addition to training and competitions, the club organises various events throughout the year. These include The Primary Schools Cross Country League, Star Track, The Manchester Mile, and the Joe Moran veterans track and field event. The fixture list is regularly updated, providing members with opportunities to showcase their talents and compete at different levels.
For the latest news, stories, and photos, interested individuals can visit Manchester Harriers' Facebook and Twitter pages. The club's dedication to preserving its legacy is evident in its comprehensive booklet, “The First Hundred Years,” which provides a detailed account of its early years and accomplishments.
Overall, Manchester Harriers and Athletics Club offers a supportive and inclusive environment for athletes of all ages and abilities. With its rich history, variety of training programmes, and exciting events, the club continues to make significant contributions to the world of athletics in Manchester and beyond.