Frequently asked questions
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What are the race rules?
No pacers, and no outside help except from your crew at the crew points. Headphones and earbuds are not allowed. Short-cutting gets a time penalty, and littering means disqualification. If someone is in difficulty, stop and help: you'll never be penalised for it, and we'll extend your cut-offs. Race rules and penalties
Are poles allowed?
Yes, but you must carry them for the whole race: you can't start without them and pick them up later, and they can't go in a drop bag. Poles can't be used at the start, the finish or in aid stations. Hiking poles policy
Can I have a crew, and where can they meet me?
Yes. Crews can meet runners at these aid stations. The crew guide has directions and phone signal for each one.
- 100K: Deers Meadow, Rostrevor, Leitrim Lodge and Ott car park
- 50K: Ott car park
- 25K: no crew points on this race
Can friends and family come and watch?
Spectators can watch at any aid station where crews are allowed. Every runner carries GPS tracking, so friends and family can also follow along online.
Is there a race briefing?
There is a race briefing before each start, once registration has closed. Every runner must attend.
When is registration and kit check?
Registration and kit check opens 2 hours before each start and closes 15 minutes before.
- 100K: Friday 16:00–17:45
- 50K: Saturday 04:00–05:45
- 25K: Saturday 06:00–07:45
Is there a bag drop or drop bags?
Yes, there's a bag drop at the finish.
Drop bags on the course:
- 100K: Rostrevor and Ott car park
- 50K: Ott car park
- 25K: none on this race
Can I recce the course? Where are the GPX files?
Yes, and we recommend it. The GPX files for all three races are available to download on the Routes page. Mist and low cloud are common in the Mournes, so we strongly recommend recceing the course before race day.
Do I need a qualifying race?
For the 100K: You must have completed an ultra of 50K or more with +2000m of climbing within the last 3 years. The other races have no qualifier, but all runners must be experienced and self-sufficient in mountain terrain.
What kit do I need?
Each race has its own mandatory kit list. Every runner carries a collapsible cup (we're cup free), and the 100K and 50K need a headtorch of at least 200 lumens (two for the 100K). Depending on the forecast, we may also require the cold weather kit or the hot weather kit. See the mandatory kit
What if I miss a cut-off or need to stop?
See the cut-off times and our cut-offs and withdrawing policies. Never leave the course without telling us.
Where does my entry fee go?
£5 of every entry goes to Mourne Heritage Trust for upland path repair in the Mournes, and any surplus is reinvested into the races. We're run independently by two race directors. Why path repair matters
Can I get a refund or transfer my place?
Entries are non-refundable and can't be transferred. Refund protection is available when you enter. If you're growing your family, our pregnancy and parenthood policy gives you a full refund or a deferral. Transfers and refunds · Pregnancy and parenthood