Madam, - Why it is that men are permitted/allowed/feel compelled to insinuate themselves into the Women's Mini Marathon in Dublin?
Lurking beneath their stereotypical and sexist sartorial concoctions is grave offence. It is anathema to the spirit of the day. ("Do I look like a slut?" says one dressed-up man quoted in Tuesday's Irish Times).
Perhaps there is trust fund somewhere that might double its sponsorship to keep them away. I have a vague memory of one - I think it caters exclusively for the "Look at me" brigade. There is probably a huge demand on its services but these lads really need to be prioritised. - Yours, etc,
DAWN EDGE -O'NEILL, Corrakyle Caher, Co Clare.
Madam, - The Flora Women's Mini Marathon was a great success last weekend in its 25th year and it was fantastic to witness such a turn-out of participants despite the unpleasant weather. While it appears to be very well organised in many respects, I am hoping that next year there will be a proper clean-up afterwards.
Walking around the city centre on Monday evening was like traversing an obstacle course made up of empty plastic bottles, confectionery wrappers and the green Flora visors handed out at the race. In many other countries there would have been a clean-up operation as speedy and efficient as the race itself. - Yours, etc,
JOANNE MULVEE, Dublin 2.