The VHI Women's Mini-Marathon is set to start at 12:30 today. The 10km race has over 28,000 participants. Participants of the race have been split into various coloured groups that will run diferent routes. The white and pink groups are starting on Leeson Street, the blue groups will start on Clare Street or Hume Street and finally the orange group will start on Herbert Place. For more information on the race check the VHI official webpage.
Each year the event aims to bring women together to run, or walk, in the worlds biggest female event of its kind. Historically women were banned from competing in Marathons across the globe, with the exclusions only beginning to lift in the 1970's.
The event began in 1983, where 9,000 women took part. In the 42 years since it began over 1 million women have entered the charity race.
The Cork City Marathon began this morning at 8:15.
In total over 12,00 racers are taking part, with a full 42 km race, a half marathon and also a 10km race. Around 3,000 participants have signed up for the full marathon. The start and finish line are located on Grand Parade.
25,000 spectators have filled the streets of Cork for this event.
The Winners of the Marathon have already been announced:
The men's winner Stephen McAuley from Antrim won with a time of 2:22:42. He was running for Letterkenny Athletics Club.
The women's winner Melissah Gibson from Australia won with a time of 2:40:41.
