Slieve Donard Race

Date: Saturday 30th May 2026
Start: 11am
Registration Open from 09:30am at start, Newcastle Centre (subject to permits)
Presentation 1:30pm: O’Hares Bar Newcastle
Distance: 10km
Climb: 850m
Minimum age: 16
Entry limit: 200

This is a technically challenging race, good levels of fitness are required (50 min for 10k) and navigational skills, in particular if the weather is poor or turns poor quickly (as has happened in the past). There are cut off times that will be enforced in the interest of the health and safety of all competitors and marshals. Cut-off at 75 minutes to Saddle. Athletes will be escorted back to the finish by the designated marshals.

Full body cover must be carried, irrespective of the weather conditions at the beginning of the race. There will be kit checks at the start and finish of the race. Runners who fail the kit check at the finish will be disqualified.

The race starts at the Newcastle Centre and will finish on the pitches in Donard Park (subject to permits).

Route
Registration/Start: Newcastle Centre (subject to permits)
Mourne Wall must not be crossed.
The race starts at Newcastle Centre on Main Street and follows the road to Donard Park.
The route isn’t marked with free route choice in forest, navigation skills or knowledge of the course will be required, in particular on the descent. Do not cross tape at top of Quarry 371293. 
Finish at the football pitches in Donard Park (subject to permits).

Check points must be visited in order, numbers will be checked by marshals.
CP1   Saddle cairn: 351280 (Cut off at 12:15)
CP2   Summit: 357277
CP3   Quarry Gate: 371293
CP4   Footpath leading to overflow carpark – two rocks mark entrance: 373304

Safety

• Mandatory kit: compass, whistle, waterproof jacket (hood & taped seams), waterproof trousers, hat & gloves. Click Here to view the Fell Running Association rules. Any updates to the mandatory kit will be communicated at race registration.
• No kit = no start. Non-compliance will result in disqualification.
• Runners are responsible for their own safety, health, and wellbeing.
• No headphones or earpieces.
• No running/trekking poles.
• Adequate fitness required; cut-off times may apply at organisers’ discretion. Cut-off at 75 minutes to Saddle. Athletes will be escorted back to the finish by the designated marshals.
• Follow all instructions from organisers and marshals — failure to do so = disqualification.
• Park responsibly, respect the environment, and leave no trace.
• All runners must report to the finish.
• Bring your own pins; attach number to vest (not shorts) for scanning.
• Be prepared for number scanning at the summit and at the finish.

Any queries should be sent to [email protected]