Image courtesy of Irish Cancer Society & Daffodil day
Sitting in the shade last weekend, I watched a bit of the Dublin Women's Mini Marathon.
It is an impressive event, with about 40,000 women taking part. No doubt it generates a load of cash for charities. Initially I wondered if it would be more successful if it opened up participation to men also?
The answer is no.
By focusing on women, it gives the event focus. This is not just about running. It is about women getting together for a day out. And getting together beforehand to train. And raising money for good causes. Running is often considered a lonely sport. Not this. It is a very social occasion. Owned by women. It is about solidarity. This makes it much easier for the organisation managing it when it comes to promotion, fundraising, sponsors and the day itself.
I don't actually know their reasons for keeping it just to women, but it feels like a very successful excercise in focus.
