Granite Peaks Races
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Event Overview
The NIMRA Granite Peaks Ultra is a senior-only mountain running event located in County Down. The course covers a distance of 55 km with a total ascent of 3159 meters. The race is part of the Irish Ultra Championships and is classified with an extreme difficulty rating due to the significant elevation gain and distance.
Course Route
The event starts and finishes at Tollymore Forest Park, specifically below the main car park. The route follows a complex path through the Mourne Mountains, including several notable landmarks and peaks:
- 55 km loop through Tollymore Forest, Trassey Track, and the Mourne Wall.
- Passes through the col between Meelmore and Meelbeg toward the Silent Valley dam.
- Ascends via the access road by Ben Crom Reservoir to reach the summit of Slieve Binnian.
- Traverses Slievelamaghan, Cove Mountain, and Slieve Beg.
- Climbs Slieve Donard, the highest point, before crossing Commedagh, Slieve Corragh, and Slievenaglogh.
- Final technical sections include Slieve Bearnagh and Slieve Meelmore before returning to the forest.
Mandatory Equipment
Participants must carry specific safety gear, classified as Level C (Advanced). The required kit includes a waterproof jacket with a hood and taped seams, waterproof full leg covers, a hat or buff, gloves, and a whistle. Runners must also carry a charged mobile phone, a foil blanket or bivvy bag, emergency food, a map of the route, and a compass. A minimum of 500 mL of water must be carried. Equipment checks may be conducted, and partial or full kit requirements are finalized on the morning of the event based on weather conditions.
Logistics
The race headquarters and registration are located at the Tollymore Forest Park main car park. Parking is available in a designated area inside the forest park, situated just before the pay station. GPS navigation devices are permitted during the race, and only major junctions along the course are marked. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
