Who is getting ready for this year̵s VHI Women’s Mini Marathon? I am. This will be my first time running an organised 10K – wish me luck – but all for a good cause. I will be running on behalf of LauraLynn, Ireland’s only children’s hospice. If you are heading to the RDS to collect your race pack on Saturday 3rd or Sunday 4th June, why not visit Woman’s World in the RDS, Simmonscourt. You can check out the full list of exhibitors here but if you’re pressed for time, read on for my top ten “must visit” exhibitors.

1. DropChef
   

   DropChef is delighted to be sharing the Nissan Next Generation stand with Dr. Coy’s Health Foods. Come meet the team who will be happy to answer any questions you have about what we do and we’ll have a nutritionist on hand, happy to chat about your training plan and how Drop Chef can work with you. Don’t forget to enter our competition on the day for your chance to win a foodie hamper. We may have added a little something into your race pack too …

2. Dr. Coy’s

   Dr. Coy’s are “passionate about positive eating and a healthy lifestyle” and what to share this passion with you. Pop by the Nissan Next Generation stand and say hi to the guys and gals from Dr. Coy’s. They’ll be offering tastings and nutritional information and running some fun competitions with great prizes! Why wouldn’t you visit?

   
3. Irish Heart Foundation
   

   Irish Heart is currently running a campaign asking people to sign a petition to tell government that we, as a nation, want tighter regulation to protect children from childhood obesity. To find out more about the “Stop Targeting Kids” campaign, visit Irish Heart at Woman’s World. Campaign videos are available to watch here where you can join me, and many others, by signing the petition.

   “We have started our campaign to highlight junk brands devious tactics in targeting children and teenagers through social platforms and build public support for stronger regulation. We need your help to sign and share our petition so that we can show government we want junk brands to stop targeting kids.”

4. Chia Bia

   The fabulous Chia Bia will be at stand FV6A where there will be lots of tasting opportunities along with Chia Bia sachets and recipe leaflets to take home and try out. The Chia sachets are perfectly portioned, making the Chia option, the easy option. The Chia team will be on site for a chat and to answer any Chia questions to may have. Don’t forget to enter the Chia Bia competition for a year’s supply for Chia products! What an amazing prize!

   
5. Sowan’s

   Ever wonder what a “portion” of nuts is equal to? Sowan’s have the answer. Pop by their stand where you can pick up samples of their snack pack nuts and nut butters (the almond butter with chia seeds is my favourite). I may have heard mention for some new bicycles making their first appearance … but can’t give too much away!

   

   “It’s very simple, we produce decent healthy food that tastes good and contains the same kind of simple ingredients used by generations before us.“

6. Fulfil

   

   Unless you’ve been hibernating, you will be aware that protein is of utmost importance in any training programme. Fulfil Nutrition is all about healthy indulgence and providing a “bar with benefits”- each bar contains 20g protein, is low sugar and is packed with vitamins and fibre. Swing by their stand and chat to the Fulfil Nutrition team about how a Fulfil bar could be part of your VHI Women’s Mini Marathon plan.

7. Brennan’s Bread
   

   “Today’s Bread Today.” That’s a quote that will long live in many of our minds. Did you know that bread is a great pre-run snack option? Have a chat with the team from Brennan’s Bread to see what breads they have on offer to suit you. They’ve brown bread, white bread, big loafs, individual portions. What I’m trying to say is that Brennan’s provide plenty of variety for many of your needs so go check them out for yourself.

8. Propercorn

   Propercorn is excited to introduce its colourful popcorn range of 6 flavours to the visitors at Woman’s World Expo. Founded on a belief that there shouldn’t have to be a compromise between health and taste, Propercorn’s colourful popcorn collection is made using 100% natural ingredients, is suitable for vegetarians and gluten-free. It’s popcorn “Done Properly”.

   

   “With summer approaching, many of us are conscious of what we are putting into our bodies and it can often feel like a time of self-restraint. At Propercorn, we’ve always believed in balance and snacking without compromise, creating snacks that deliver on health, quality and taste. All our recipes start in the Propercorn kitchen and are tumbled in natural seasoning, giving every pack a delicious depth of flavour, from the first hit to the last kernel.”

9. Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

   

   Without doubt, my favourite training buddy is my pooch, albeit, on the days I’m walking because he doesn’t understand that he can run much faster than I can! The DSPCA work to prevent cruelty and neglect of animals through fostering the compassionate relationship between animals and people. Every animal deserves compassion and help. Drop by the DSPCA’s stand at Woman’s World to see what you can do to help.

10. Legcode

    

    It can be tricky to look stylish when working out but Legcode are here to help. Legcode design unique and high quality leggings for stylish and fashionable people. Their motto is simple: “Smooth on your skin, seamless on service”. Visit Legcode and you could be the most stylish runner in this year’s VHI Women’s Mini Marathon.

From everyone at DropChef, best of luck to everyone participating in this year’s VHI Women’s Mini Marathon. You’ve got this!!

• Amy Meegan, BSc (Hons) Human Nutrition, UCD
• Facebook: The Baking Nutritionist
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