Inclement conditions couldn't dampen the spirits of over 37,000 race-goers who took part in the annual women's mini-marathon in Dublin on bank holiday Monday.

From early afternoon the city was awash with thousands of colourful participants, many of whom were decked out in ponchos and improvised waterproof bin-liner outfits, as the capital geared up for the 33rd instalment of an event that is unique to Dublin.

Along with the teeming rain, a status orange wind warning was also in force, but that didn’t stop local hero Maria McCambridge from posting an impressive time of 34 minutes and 3 seconds to cross the finishing line in first place.

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Of course, elite athletes form only a small part of the overall occasion, and many women were delighted to simply take part and raise much-needed funds for a charity of their choice.

Down native Mary Bushel was taking part in her 20th race, and was buoyed on by support from cheering crowds coming into the finishing straight.

“I’ve been there from the start, and always for the Irish Society for Mucopolysaccharide Disease - the only reason I’m in it is for that,” said the 62 year-old.

“We have such a small group, there’s only about 10 or 15 people fundraising, so someone has to make some effort to get money.

“I don’t like the wet, but there was seven of us doing it there and we did it in just over 90 minutes so it’s not bad.

“There was a good crowd, on the wet day we didn’t think there’d be anybody out so we’re looking for a hot cup of tea or coffee and something to eat now.”

Traffic diversions are operating around the city throughout the event.