One of the Island’s biggest road races, the women-only PartnerRe 5K, will go under starter’s orders in the Botanical Gardens on Sunday.

It is shaping up to be a battle for honours featuring many of the Island’s top women road runners.

Past winner Victoria Fiddick, who was last year’s runner-up, is a confirmed entrant. Two-times champion Jennifer Alen, who won Sunday’s Break the Silence 5K, has indicated she intends to compete in the event, which is now in its eighteenth year.

Race co-organiser Rose-Anna Hoey hopes other top athletes, such as Deon Breary, Tamika Williams and Krista Dyer, will compete.

Ashley Estwanik, who won in 2013 and 2014, is not expected to defend her title because of an injury.

Organisers expect up to 1,000 entrants to participate in the 5K run and walk, and a junior 2K race for girls. Proceeds from the race will go to Action on Alzheimer’s and Dementia Bermuda.

A breakfast will be provided for participants after the race, and participants will receive a gift bag when they collect their race number at the Jack King Building in the Botanical Gardens, on Saturday morning.

Entries can be made online at Race Day World, ending at 6pm tomorrow. Late entries will be accepted on Saturday morning at the race number collection point in the Botanical Gardens.

On Sunday, the junior race starts at 8.15am and will be followed by the 5K run and walk at 9am.