Manchester marathon caught short – by 380m
RUNNERS who participated in the Greater Manchester Marathon for the last three years may find their times declared null and void after it was revealed that the course measured short – by 380m.
The Association of UK Course Measurers has said that the course was checked by an accredited measurer in 2013 and that this measurement was also used as the basis for the races in 2014 & 2015.
However, following last year’s race, there were suggestions that the course was short and after discussion with race organisers AUKCM carried out a verification measurement of the 2015 course in conjunction with the measurement of the course for the 2016 marathon, which took place earlier this month.
This measurement showed that the course run in 2015 was 380m short.
Phil Holland, secretary for the AUKCM, said: “AUKCM were unable to identify any error from the original measurement report, but increasing differences in the positions given for mile markers compared with the verification measurement indicated a possible error in calibration of the wheel for the original measurement. A check of the calibration course used showed that it was short, the error accounting for about half of the deficiency.
“We conclude that the 2015 course was 380m short and the courses used in 2013 & 2014 were also short by similar distances. AUKCM regret the error in measurement and the effect it has on runners times. Significant errors in measurement are rare – our procedures are designed to find them at the reporting or checking stages.”
Xtra Mile Events, which organises the Greater Manchester Marathon, said responsibility for measuring of the length of the course laid with AUKCM.
In a statement it added: “We relied on AUKCM certification in holding the race over the specified distance. It has been confirmed that the course was measured incorrectly most likely due to a calibration issue. AUKCM have agreed that the course was the same as had been certified.
“We all understand the anguish and huge disappointment this creates, and want to assure our runners that we share the upset and emotion from the AUKCM news regarding the race distance.”
The AUKCM assured runners who attended this year’s Greater Manchester Marathon on April 10 that the revised 2016 course is not affected by the error and that it has been checked by two measurers and both National and IAAF/AIMS certificates have been issued.
