More than 2,200 women are expected to take part in the West of Ireland Women's Mini Marathon in Ballina, Co Mayo this afternoon.
The event, believed to be the biggest women’s only event in the west has benefitted local charities to the tune of approximately €1 million over the years.
Head of Mayo Sports Partnership Charlie Lambert told RTÉ News that the event, in its 17th year, continues to attract huge numbers.
"We’re the main organisers and we look at the whole area of participation … we’ve top runners, joggers, walkers and people with disabilities taking part," he said.
He said the 'Mayo.ie Western People West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon' can be a great way to galvanise women and girls to take part in running.
"Our remit is the promotion of physical activity for all target groups, but women in sports is a big target group, and this fits our drive to get women more active," he said.
The event has evolved over the years. More than 1,000 children take part in the 2km children’s mini-mini marathon.
A drive to get more teenage girls participating is being promoted through the 'It’s for Girls’ initiative.
Supported by Sport Irelands ‘Women in Sport’ programme, second level schools in the region have been invited to participate in the ‘It’s for Girls’ mini marathon challenge.
The initiative aims to get girls more physically active; all participants have a reduced entry fee as do teachers and mentors taking part with the girls.
Freya Renton made history in the 2025 event by becoming the youngest ever winner against an experienced field which included a number of previous winners.
Some temporary road closures will be in operation in Ballina, including the closure of parts of Tone Street, Market Road and Pearse Street from 9am until 5pm.
The newly renovated Ballina Innovation Quarter/Market Square will incorporate a stage with music, entertainment and refreshments.
The mini marathon was held in Castlebar for the first 15 years, then it moved to Ballina, for the town’s 300th celebration in 2023. It now rotates locations.
The event is co-organised by Mayo Sports Partnership, the Western People and Mayo.ie with the support of athletic clubs, community groups and Ballina Municipal District Council.
Mr Lambert commended the collaboration of the various groups organising the mini-marathon and 200 volunteers, without whom he says the event would not happen.
While most runners will make the journey from Mayo, many are expected to travel from other counties including the midlands and Dublin.
A virtual mini-marathon was held during the Covid-19 pandemic and that virtual option continues for runners.
Some 100 participants are expected to run their own mini marathon from locations including Australia, the USA and the UK.
