8,500 runners to take part in the National Lottery Dublin Half Marathon this Saturday

8,500 runners, walkers and joggers are expected to take part in the National Lottery Dublin Half Marathon this Saturday 17th September in Phoenix Park. The third and final race in the three part National Lottery Dublin Race Series represents the last big hurdle for Marathon hopefuls ahead of the Dublin Marathon on 31st October

Numbers for the National Lottery Dublin Half Marathon this weekend are over double what they were for the same race in 2008. The record crowd is in keeping with the exceptional numbers experienced for the preceding five and ten mile races and with the increasing popularity of the Race Series since its inception in 2002.

Commenting on the success of the Race Series, the National Lottery Dublin Marathon Race Director Jim Aughney said;

“We never anticipated nine years ago, when we first introduced the idea of the Race Series, that it would enjoy the success which it has to date. A modest 200 people took part in that first race and the numbers have gradually grown year on year since then.”

“We are fortunate to have the National Lottery come on board as sponsors this year and their support has enabled the sustained growth and success of the Marathon and the Race Series.”

The Race Series has enjoyed a strong level of Elite participation over the years with last months Frank Duffy 10 mile race witnessing the largest ever International field, however, domestic Elite runners are expected to lead the race on Saturday.

Barry Minnock (Rathfarnham WSAF), who claimed victory in the Dublin 10 mile road championship last month will stake his claim on first place in Saturday’s Half Marathon whilst fellow Marathon mission team members Lorraine Manning (Raheny Shamrocks AC) and Annette Kealy will battle it out in the women’s race.

Please note that in order to facilitate ongoing road works in the park, various traffic restrictions are in place and those who would normally drive are advised to take public transport. A shuttle bus service will operate from Parkgate Street to the Phoenix Monument returning after the race.

For updates from the race see: www.facebook.com/dublinmarathon or www.twitter.com/dublinmarathon