Slieve Donard
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Event overview
The Slieve Donard race is scheduled for Saturday 30 May 2026 in Donard, County Down. The course is listed as 10.00 km with a climb of 850 m and an event difficulty rating of 8 (3,3,2) - difficult terrain, more than 500 m ascent, distance 6-10 km. GPS use is not allowed. The event is part of the Irish Championship and the Irish Uphill League. The summit splits will be used as the first event in the Irish Uphill League. The race will also act as the trial race for the Snowdon International Race in Wales on 18 July 2026.
Course and checkpoints
Registration and the start are at Newcastle Centre on Main Street. The route follows the road to Donard Park and finishes on the football pitches in Donard Park. The route includes sections with free route choice in forest; navigation skills or prior knowledge of the course are required, particularly on the descent. Marshals will check that checkpoints are visited in order:
- CP1 Saddle cairn: 351280
- CP2 Summit: 357277
- CP3 Quarry Gate: 371293 Runners must not cross the Mourne Wall and must not cross tape at the top of the quarry (371293).
Safety, kit and rules
Mandatory kit level is C - Advanced and includes a waterproof jacket with hood and taped seams, waterproof full leg cover, hat or buff, gloves, whistle, charged mobile phone with emergency number stored, foil blanket or bivvy bag, at least 500 mL water, emergency food, map and compass. There will be kit checks at the start and finish; non-compliance may lead to denial of start or disqualification. No headphones or trekking poles are permitted. A 75-minute cut-off to the saddle will be enforced for safety. Entries and any final kit updates will be advised at registration. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
