Victory for Ethiopian athletes in both men and women’s titles at Dublin Marathon

The 45th Irish Life Dublin Marathon took place today.

Abay Alemu Lesa and Zenebu Fikdau Jebesa both finished first in the men and women's titles respectively at the 45th Irish Life Dublin Marathon, which took place today.

Despite weather concerns, a record 19,190 participants took part in this year's marathon including elite athletes, wheelchair participants and charity fundraisers.

Over €5 million is said to have been raised so far.

In his first time running the Dublin marathon, Abay Alemu Lesa finished the race in 2 hours 10 minutes, saying the wind made it a 'difficult run'.

Mayo man Hugh Armstrong was the first Irish man across finish line completing the route in 2 hours 14 minutes.

The first woman to finish the race was Zenebu Fikdau Jebesa who got there in 2 hours 24 minutes.

Judith Storm was the first Irish woman to finish the marathon, doing so in 2 hours 35 minutes.

The event is still under way, with the course route open for several hours and thousands of runners still set to complete the race. Their supporters are also expected to line the route through the city centre and surrounding areas.

The 26.2 mile course begins at Leeson Street and heads through the Liberties before entering Phoenix Park, Chapelizod, Inchicore and Terenure.

On the final 10-kilometre stretch, participants are met with the hilly route of Milltown Road and Clonskeagh before the infamous Fosters Avenue, then past Nutley Lane, Merrion Road and the RDS, before crossing the finish line at Pepper Cannister Church.

Several road closures are in place both along the route and at the start and end points.

Transport for Ireland advised those using public transport to note the disruption, while Irish Rail has advised that there is no Dart service between Grand Canal Dock and Bray due to works.

See all closures below: