23 YEARS ON THE TROT FOR CANBERRA'S FEMALES

Chief Minister Jon Stanhope this morning fired the starting pistol to begin the Annual Women and Girls' Fun Run in Commonwealth Park.

"This is the 23rd anniversary of the Women and Girls' Fun Run and I congratulate the ACT Cross Country Club on the continued success of this great event," Mr Stanhope said.

"I have a long association with the ACT Cross Country Club and it has been fantastic to watch this fun run grow to the successful event it has become."

With over 1,000 participants, this fun run is Australia's third largest female only fun run. The Sydney and Melbourne Classics are the only events that have more participants.

"Walking or running is a great way of maintaining a good level of physical fitness and all those involved should be congratulated for supporting this event," Mr Stanhope said.

This year's event is expected to raise $5,000 with the funds being donated to the Marymead Child and Family Centre.