New mile event offers mass-participation races as well as elite action at the Run Expo festival in March

A new indoor mile event is to take place for the first time at the Run Expo festival in Manchester in March.

On March 20 ‘Run Like A Legend’, which is the brainchild of former mile world record-holder and 1983 1500m world champion Steve Cram, will see waves of runners compete on a specially-designed 800m circuit in EventCity as part of the Run Expo taking place from March 18-20.

The waves of milers will set off in 15-minute intervals. Participants will be chip-timed and will receive a bespoke Nike running T-shirt as well as a goody bag and free entry to the Run Expo.

“We’re delighted to launch Run Like A Legend in Manchester,” said Cram, whose company Events of the North will organise the event, which will also be supported by Nike.

“The city is a crucible of innovation in many fields and this will be another first to add to the list.

“The mile is probably the most iconic distance in athletics and every aspiring runner wants to test themselves against it at some point. We have created Run Like A Legend to offer that opportunity to people of all experiences and abilities. Whether a budding four minute miler or someone who wants to run the distance for the first time, this event is designed to appeal to people of all ages and abilities.

“The waves will be time graded, so participants will be able to run alongside others of a similar pace and feel the thrill of track racing with spectators up close lining the race track. This format is brand new for the UK and it’s going to be a busy and exciting day of running.”

Organisers expect around 2000 runners to take part and alongside the mass-participation event there will be elite men’s and women’s races, featuring some of the UK’s best up-and-coming milers. In addition, younger athletes aged seven to 15 will be able to take part in the junior Run Like A Legend.

The entry fee of £24 includes the Nike goody bag and t-shirt and entry into the Run Expo, which also incorporates triathlon, bike and swim expos.

For further information and to enter the event, visit runlikealegend.com.