Thousands of people are ready to take to the streets of Dublin today, with the return of the V Women’s Mini Marathon.
The annual 10 km race is one of Ireland’s largest charity sporting events and begins at 2.00 pm in Dublin’s Merrion Square.
The race will begin at Fitzwilliam Street Upper with the finish line on Lower Baggott Street.
Roads to the city center and south will be closed and many Dublin bus routes will have diversions.
Participants are being advised to use public transport. A full list of scheduled road closures is available on the program’s website.
All runners have been advised to be at their relevant starting point before 1.30 pm.
The mini marathon, now in its 40th year, is the largest women-only event of its kind in the world and has raised more than €225 million for qualified charities since its inception.
More than 20,000 women are expected to take part in the run or walk in aid of various charities.
While the mini marathon is a women’s-only event, organizers said anyone who identifies as women is welcome to participate.
In 2020, due to COVID 19, the Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon went virtual for the first time.
The event took place in October 2020 and attracted over 22,000 people from all over the world.
It went virtual again in September 2021 and participants were able to track their runs with an event app, which will be used again this year.
No large bags, backpacks or suitcases will be permitted at the event.
Luggage can be dropped off at the Bag Drop at Merion Square South from 12 noon.
Attendees have been asked to bring a clear reusable bag for their belongings. Content must be clearly visible, and participants have been advised that all materials may be subject to search.
After the event all attendees will be able to meet at the Vi Meeting Points or at Reunion Square in Marion Square Park.
Organized this year in partnership with the Irish Independent, those who cannot race Dublin can also take part in the virtual run.
