THE 14th annual Women's MiniMarathon will take place on the streets of Dublin tomorrow. More than 26,000 competitors are expected to run, with at least 250 from Britain and Scandinavia. Last year the event raised £3 million for charity.
The 10km race begins in Fitzwilliam Square, goes south along the Merrion Road before doing a U turn on to the Stillorgan Road at UCD, and passing through Donnybrook and Leeson Street, to finish in St Stephen's Green.
Gardai do not foresee any traffic problems for motorists, although many of the side roads along the route will be closed. An estimated 80 gardai will be on duty along the course, with 1,200 stewards also on hand.
The event, which began in 1983, is sponsored by Dunnes Stores. Despite reports that Mandate may take to the streets in protest against Dunnes, no major problems are envisaged by the organisers.
Mr Frank Slevin, the race director, expects thousands of people to support the athletes on the streets.
"The work behind the scenes goes on all year round and, in the past, the crowds have been very large," he said.
The ability level of the athletes is varied. Many are of a high standard, while others have entered for the fun of it.
The race has a good tradition, as Mr Slevin explained "None of the athletes were offered monetary reward. It is an open race and the competition will be good."
The event will get begin at about 3 p.m. Mr Slevin stressed that entries for the race closed on May 10th.