Mourne Way Marathon
The 2013 Mourne Way Marathon will take place on 8 June 2013.
2012 MOURNE WAY PHOTOS NOW UPLOADED - HERE
Having established itself as one of Ireland’s premier off road running events the 2013 event is set to attract participants from across the world that will come to compete alongside fellow runners on this spellbinding route.
With the addition of the Ultra Marathon distance in 2010 and a short 5km distance option in 2011 there is now an event for everyone from the serious Ultra Runner to the fun runners on the day of the event. In addition to the Ultra distance and the 5km are the “in between distances” - Marathon, Half Marathon and 10km runs. There is also a Challenge Walk along the 26 mile route of the Mourne Way Marathon for those avid walkers out there.
The beauty of the Mourne Way events is that all routes are fully waymarked and do not cross the tops of any mountains. They traverse the foothills of the mountains as opposed to crossing them and in doing so all participants will be able to enjoy the views of the mountains without having to climb them. The Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a unique; largely granite landscape shaped by ice and man, with stunning vistas of coast, sea and countryside and all competitors will get a chance to take in these sights along the route. As with all 26 Extreme events, there will be a high level of support and feed stations en route.
Participants in all events will be chipped timed by our timing partner ChampionChip Ireland and we will provide split times and finish times for all participants after the event.
We are also delighted that the 2013 Mourne Way Ultra Marathon retains its status as a qualifying event for the 2014 Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, truly one of the most iconic trail races in the world. See here for more info.
Why not make a weekend out of the race – in addition to the Mourne Way Marathon Events, there are some fantastic restaurants and pubs in the locality and you can enjoy the food and hospitality on offer, when the party ends, well into the wee hours.
There are various B&B’s and Campsites available in the vicinity of the event centre at Kilbroney Park. The main hub of activity and accommodation will be in Rostrevor and Warrenpoint villages. If you are intending on staying close to the event centre it would be wise to book early as the accommodation will fill up fast.
List of Accommodation
Rostrevor
Warrenpoint
Attical
Kilkeel
Strangford
For Further information on accommodation please log onto the local Council Websites:
The Newry and Mourne website (www.newryandmourne.gov.uk) lists many types of accommodation from four star hotels to campsites. Accommodation information can be found under the Tourism section of the site. Down District Council’s website (www.downdc.gov.uk) has information on hotels, campsites, B&B’s, hostels etc.
Please note that this section will be added to as questions are asked by competitors.
1) Where can I find the route maps for each event?
Click on the links below to view the full details for each route -
Mourne Way 5k - This event starts 5km from the start of the 10k event shown above.
2) How difficult is each event?
Without us knowing your level of fitness the answer to this question is difficult but we would say that unless you have put in the training and have the miles in your legs please do not enter a distance option that you know will be out of your league. We have five distance options – choose carefully!
3) Do you have any recommended kit for the event?
Running shoes (trail runners or ordinary runners) / Walking Boots, Hydration pack or water bottle, Energy snacks, Windproof top, Hat or
Buff ® Participants must be aware that weather conditions along the coastline can change and deteriorate rapidly and should bring appropiate clothing to keep them warm in any adverse weather. It is also essential that all competitors undertake a training programme in the months leading up to this event to ensure the day is as memorable as possible.
4) Where is the parking area for the event?
All competitors MUST
report to Kilbroney Park in Rostrevor, Co
Down for registration, kit check, and race briefing. All vehicles can be left
at the registration area and we would ask that as many people as possible car
pool for the event. With the exception of the Ultra Runners, all competitors will
be transported to the appropiate start location for their event by bus. For
those who are being guided by GPS
the postcode for the entrance to Kilbroney Park is BT34 3AA
5) Where is the event registration area?
Registration for all
events will take place in Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor Co. Down. There will be
important welcome and safety briefings for all competitors that will cover
safety, the latest weather forecast, logistical considerations and other
important information.
6) What's included in my entry fee?
Professionally
organised event by 26 Extreme, fully qualified marshal assistance, Public Liability insurance, Bus Transfer for
participants from Kilbroney Park to the start of their event (if applicable), First Responder Paramedic cover, ChampionChip electronic timing system, Race number, Course
marking, Manned hydration and feed stations, Buff (RRP
£13.50) / Finishers Medal, Prizes for each category, Finish Line Nutrition, plus a Goodie Bag crammed with goods from our Proud Sponsors and use of the Ice Bath and Finish Line Physio! .
7) Is there anything sent to me in the post before the event?
No, all information and items to include race numbers, timing chip and other information associated with the event will be given to you upon registration on the day of the event.
8) Are there any feed / hydration stations?
There will be hydration
/ feed stations at various locations along the route.Ultra Marathon Checkpoints (mile 8, 12, 20, 26, 32, 38, 44), Marathon and
Challenge Walk Checkpoints (mile 6, 12, 18), Half
Marathon Checkpoints (mile 5), 10km &
5km (none)- Finish line water and food for all participants.
9) Where is the best place for my family to see me taking part?
Family and friends
are more than welcome to come along to this event to show support. Supporters
also add an atmosphere and additional energy to the experience for all the
other participants and the crew. The best place for your supporters is at the
run into the finish in Kilbroney Park as there will be a
festival type atmosphere in the park that day.
Please Note:It is asked that spectators
follow the recommendations of the organisers in order to prevent bottle necks
and congestion.
10) Can I raise money for Charity?
Yes, we have no problem with participants raising money for charities and other worthwhile causes. We have a series of Charity partners and if you are yet undecided as to what charity you will raise money for please
here.11) Do you have ay Rules that I have to adhere to?
The event is open to runners, and walkers of 18 years of age and over. Participants must ensure they have appropriate footwear, clothing and have access to water and energy food whilst competing. All participants must refer to the recommended kit list. All participants must follow the prescribed course & adhere to the spirit of the event by showing courtesy to other trail users, dropping no litter – we operate a Leave No Trace Policy. If you drop your rubbish you WILL be disqualified. Leaving gates as found and offering fellow runners who are injured, exhausted or confused, help and support.
12) Will I have to sign a Disclaimer?
Yes, by entering the event you will be bound by the event disclaimer.