McKiernan in action at Phoenix Park

Catherina McKiernan is back in action tomorrow to defend her adidas Irish Runner Challenge title in the Phoenix Park.

McKiernan was only getting back to fitness last year when she raced home to victory in 27:00, and she is hoping that she can both retain her title, and better that time this year.

Former Cross Country champion Seamus Power from Clare is also back to defend his title, he was first past the line last year in a time of 24:06. Expecting to put him under pressure tomorrow will be the 2002 winner Noel Berkeley.

Over 1,600 people have pre-registered for the race, and given that over 500 entries were taken on the day last year, race organisers are expecting over 2,000 to take part on Sunday.