Over-fit, underdressed and - in spite of everything - over here, almost 3,000 Americans have made it to the starting line of this morning's Dublin City Marathon.
In spite of fears that they would not travel in the wake of the events of September 11th, most of the US runners who entered this year's marathon have brought smiles to the capital's hard-pressed hoteliers by arriving as promised for the weekend.
Up to 10,000 runners from 50 countries are expected to start this year's race at 9 a.m. Most of the international runners, and many of those from Ireland, are running for charity. This year's race, the 22nd, is sponsored by sports company Adidas for the first time.
"The weather looks good, a cracking race is promised and lots of charities will benefit," says the race director, Mr Jim Aughney. "We would like to think that the people of Dublin will give the runners a huge welcome."
The route, which follows a meandering course from near the Four Courts through the south side of the city and the north quays of the Liffey, will see traffic disrupted from early morning to 3 p.m. However, most roads will be open again by lunchtime.
Garda∅ have advised motorists who wish to cross the city to use the East or West Link toll bridges. Cross-city traffic will be diverted via Sarah Bridge, Frank Sherwin Bride or the East Link.
Kenyans are expected to dominate the men's race, with a course record a distinct possibility. An Irish victory is more likely in the women's race, where former winner Teresa Duffy faces a stiff challenge from Cork's Valerie Vaughan.
