Sunshine happiness from 35,000 women

By Laura Lyne

THIS year’s VHI Women’s Mini Marathon saw almost 35,000 women from across Ireland and the world take part in the 10K, with hundreds of competitors from South Dublin giving it their best efforts in the annual race.

Women from across Tallaght, Clondalkin, Lucan and Ballyfermot took to the streets of Dublin on Monday following months of preparation, training and fundraising for hundreds of charities.

Fundraising took place for local charities, including the CRY unit located in Tallaght Hospital, with local runners fundraising for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, DEBRA, VHL Warriors, the Run for Conor in aid of Féileacáin, and many more worthy causes.

Kathy Endersen, CEO of the Women’s Mini Marathon, said: “Today has been a fantastic day for women and charities from all over Ireland.

“It’s very uplifting to see so many women walking, jogging and running together through the streets of Dublin today.
“We would like to thank our sponsors and community groups who help to make this event such a popular one for women every year.”

John O’Dwyer, chief executive of VHI Healthcare said: “VHI is very proud to support this terrific event and would like to thank all of those who have worked so hard to make it such a success.

“This is a phenomenal event that promotes health and fitness around the country as well as raising much-needed funds for hundreds of worthy causes nationwide.”

The event kicked off at noon from Merrion Square, with bands, DJs and drummers entertaining the participants as they made their way around the 10K route.

A wall of support also displayed messages to participants as they ran past, with messages submitted by family and friends.
The first VHI Women’s Mini Marathon took place in 1983, with 9,000 entrants taking part with the marathon taking place each June bank holiday weekend.

Last year’s event saw almost €5.3 million raised across all competitors, bringing the total amount raised since 1983 to €197 million.