Gardai To Lead Dublin City Marathon

The nation's runners will be on their best behavior this year, as the Garda Athletics Club will be leading off the Dublin City Marathon. Taking place on Monday, 27th October a member from the Garda Choir will also sing the National Anthem prior to the commencement of the race.

Over 30 Garda members, across ranks and divisions, will participate in the marathon to raise money for various charities of their choice. Following a rendition of the National Anthem by Garda Sergeant Mike Miley, the Garda group will lead off the race along side the Elite Athletes.

Although a tradition in many other countries, it is the first time that An Garda Síochána have been asked to undertake the role.

The Garda Commissioner, Fachtna Murphy said: "I am delighted that An Garda Síochána is being honoured in this way.

"Sports, fitness and community involvement are key elements of our organisation and every effort is made to encourage officers to participate through bodies like the Garda Athletic Club and a range of other sporting clubs, organised under the auspices of Coiste Siamsa (Garda Athletic Association).

"Can I wish all participants in the marathon, including my own members, the very best of luck and congratulate the marathon organisers on this their 29th Dublin City Marathon."

The Dublin Marathon is takes place every year in Dublin, normally on the last Monday in October, an Irish public holiday. Held each year since 1980, in 2007 there were about 11,000 race participants, half of whom were from overseas. The race hasn't been one by an Irishman since Waterford's Olympic silver medallist John Treacy in 1993.

(DW)