Benbulben (Luke's Bridge)
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Benbulben (Luke's Bridge), County Sligo
The event is a mountain running race on Benbulben in County Sligo. The main route is about 9.0 km with approximately 400 m of climb. A short course of about 4.5 km is provided; this short course is the junior route and turns around halfway up the plateau.
- 9.00 km with about 400 m ascent
- 4.50 km short course, turnaround halfway up plateau
The route leaves tarmac for gravel, then moves onto bog and grass at the foot of the ascent. The main uphill section includes a steep c.150 m climb to the plateau near a stream. From the plateau the route continues northwest over undulating ground to the trig point summit, which is the turnaround. Return follows the same line initially, then descends on a different marshalled route that leads back to the road and the finish. Descending runners have right of way. The course is marked with IMRA markers and marshals at major junctions. There are dangerous cliffs in the vicinity; the route does not go directly to cliff edges. GPS devices are not allowed.
Mandatory kit is Level B standard and includes a waterproof jacket, hat or buff, gloves, whistle, a charged mobile phone with the emergency number stored, and a foil blanket or bivvy bag or equivalent. The specific kit to be carried may be finalised on the day. Failure to have required items may lead to denial of entry or disqualification; random checks may be carried out.
Registration is at the North Sligo Sports Complex in Grange, postal code F91YX25. There is no parking or registration at Luke's Bridge and runners will be transported by bus from Grange to the start. An alternate parking option is Gortarowey Forest Car Park, Cashelgarran, with limited capacity. Entry fees are €7 for seniors and €5 for over 65s and under 18s. The event forms part of the Connacht Championship and the North West League. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
