Cairncastle Classic
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Cairncastle Classic Fell Race
The Cairncastle Classic Fell Race is a medium distance fell race run over 10 miles with approximately 2200 ft of ascent. The event is authorised and supported by the Northern Ireland Mountain Running Association (NIMRA) and is based at Ballygally, a coastal village just north of Larne. Registration is at Cairncastle Primary School, with car parking and toilet facilities available nearby. The event minimum age is 16.
The route starts at Cairncastle Primary School and follows Cairncastle Road uphill for about one mile, passing Matties Meeting House. The course continues on a farmers track onto the fells and up to the face of Knockdhu. Runners proceed along the Sallagh Braes to Check Point 1 at a stile, then descend to the valley and Check Point 2. From there the route ascends on a rough tractor path to the Antrim Hills way and the turning point at Check Point 3. Runners return past Check Point 4 at Linford Car Park, climb to Scawt Hill (Check Point 5), then descend to the shoreline via a rocky tractor path to Check Point 6 and the coast road at The Half Way House hotel and restaurant. The final section runs along the coast road and passes Ballygally Castle before returning to the school.
The course is not fully marked; only road junctions are signposted and private paths have minimal marking. Some flagging will guide runners between CP1 and CP2 and between CP5 and CP6. Essential fell running kit is required, including hat or buff, gloves, waterproof jacket with hood and taped seams, waterproof bottoms with taped seams, foil blanket, fully charged mobile phone, route map, compass, emergency food, and a drinking vessel capable of holding at least 330 ml. Entry fees are listed as Affiliated £14 and Unaffiliated £16. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
