169 entries have been received so far for June's Clerical Medical Parish Walk.
However, last year's winner Robbie Collister and record holder Sean Hands have yet to make their intentions clear.
The latest figure is just a fraction of the numbers expected to take part.
Last year, 1,329 registered to start the event.
FC Isle of Man get pre-season underway with summer festival
Ravens get first runout ahead of new season
Swimming: Oscar Maddrell becomes triple British champion
Manx swimmer also breaks Island records during successful trip
Football: Mixed results for IoM Women in summer series
They welcomed Ynys Mon to The Bowl last weekend
Kinley and Bezance to be Commonwealth baton and flag bearers
Both to have starring roles in Thursday's opening ceremony