MARA-FUN MARVELS

28,000 take part in race around capital city. | Bank Holiday weekend round-up in full Bloom.

- PAT FLANAGAN

TENS of thousands of people ran, danced and smelled the roses yesterday on a rainy Bank Holiday weekend.

Over 28,000 women took to the streets of Dublin yesterday in what is being hailed as the most successful ever Vhi Women's Mini Marathon.

The sold-out event, now in its 43rd year, reached its maximum capacity in record time.

The iconic race drew women from every corner of Ireland, with participants travelling from all over the country for what is now one of the largest all-female events in the world.

It was won by Grace Richardson from Kilkenny City Harriers in a time of 34 minutes and 17 seconds.

Participants of all ages, abilities and fitness levels came together under this year's theme, "Championing Womankind" - a celebration of the strength, resilience and support that women bring to every step of their journey.

Among them were first-timers, seasoned athletes, and a dedicated group of women who have taken part every year since 1983.

The youngest participant was just 14, while the oldest was aged 89.