Limited places available for Mini-Marathon
Runners set off at the start of the West of Ireland Women's Mini-Marathon at the Mall in Castlebar in 2022, the last time it was held in the county town. Picture: John O'Grady
Registration continues for the Mayo.ie Western People Women's Mini-Marathon 2025.
Those interested in partaking in the event are strongly encouraged to sign up as soon as possible, as places are limited, and there are just over two weeks to go before the mini-marathon.
Among the key dates is Friday next, April 18, which is the last date to register to receive the mini-marathon t-shirt in the post. T-shirts are almost sold out, with only limited sizes left. After this date, the t-shirt will have to be collected in Castlebar on the weekend of the event or before the race on May 4. Every participant will also receive a medal.
There has been great enthusiasm for the event's return to Castlebar, and it is looking like it will sell out.
Encouraging people to participate in sports is not just about physical activity; it empowers them with essential life skills and promotes health and well-being.
Through regular training sessions, competitions, and teamwork, individuals will learn the value of perseverance, time management, and setting achievable goals. Sports can teach us that success requires dedication and hard work, qualities that are transferable to various aspects of life.
It can also help to build confidence and self-esteem. As people develop their athletic abilities and witness their progress over time, they gain a sense of accomplishment and belief in their capabilities.
Sports also provide opportunities for the public to develop essential social skills. Being part of a team teaches them cooperation, communication, and conflict resolution. They learn to work towards a common goal, respect diverse perspectives, and support their teammates through victories and setbacks.
While the mini-marathon is more of an individual task, training with other people will help them build strong relationships and meet new people.
With just under three weeks to go, preparation is continuing at Mayo Sports Partnership.
Janette Slattery, Promotions, Awareness and Evaluations Officer at Mayo Sports Partnership, said: “We are expecting record participation in this year’s mini-marathon, which returns to Castlebar following two years in Ballina. While places remain available, they are filling quickly, and we encourage you to register soon for what promises to be a memorable event. Mayo Sports Partnership are delighted with the level of engagement and looks forward to welcoming participants to the Mall on the bank holiday weekend.”
Janette added: “It is important to remember that you don’t need to be a runner to take part in the event. A core principle of the marathon since its inception in 2010 has been inclusion. Mayo Sports Partnership and all event organisers are keen to ensure participation is open to all abilities, from athletes striving to achieve a personal best, to walkers taking part for fun.”
Registration remains open for Its4 Girls - teenage girls aged 12 to 17 in secondary school can participate for just €10. Registration also remains open via the Mayo.ie Western People Women's Mini Marathon website and through primary schools throughout the county for the 2km Mini Mini Fun Run.
Plans are well underway for entertainment around the course on the day, and anyone interested in helping out as a volunteer is asked to contact Ray McNamara at msp@mayococo.ie or call/text 087-6973093 to register your name and area of interest.
A series of giveaways sponsored by Castlebar Chamber members are also up for grabs, including prizes from the TF Royal Hotel and Theatre, Breaffy House Resort, Team Horizon, Nyrah Beauty, The Dining Room, Pamex, Anatomy Physiotherapy and Carraig Donn.
Follow @woiminimarathon on social media for updates on the event.
