When is the Mourne Skyline MTR 2021 race?

The date for the 2021 event is Saturday 2nd October 2021 (9am).

Where does it start and finish?

The race starts and finishes in Donard Park Playing Fields in Newcastle, County Down, Northern Ireland.

How far is the race?

The race measures 35k in distance including 3,370m of ascent over technical terrain.

How can I enter?

Online entry will be available via the Mourne Skyline MTR website HERE from early 2021.

Please note there will be NO 'on the day' entry available for this race.  There are only 200 places available, so early entry is strongly recommended.

I am an experienced mountain runner! Do I really have to go to the race briefing?

This is an absolute necessity!  Given the nature of the course, the Race Director may have to make slight changes to the route right up until the last moments.  Any changes will be fully explained at the Race Briefing.  This briefing is for YOUR safety.  

How fit do I need to be?

A high level of fitness is recommended.  Experience in off-road running and technical terrain would also benefit competitors.

What kit do I need for this race?

Our mandatory kit list is available below - our final kit list will be provided on race morning based on the weather forecast.  It is important to note that you will not be asked to carry anything that is not on the list below.  A mandatory kit check will take place when you are collecting your registration pack, so please bring your kit to registration.

Can I use race/hiking poles during the event?

Race/Hiking Poles can be used during the event but will NOT be permitted during the mass start; this is for the safety of all competitors. We would also ask anyone using hiking/racing poles to be aware of people around them whilst using the poles.  It is IMPORTANT to note that if you start with poles, you MUST finish with them.  Failure to comply may lead to disqualification.

Where can I leave the kit I want to have at the finish? 

Delivering the event in a COVID-19 Environment:  

We cannot stress this enough. Our baggage area, which will be located beside the START / FINISH AREA in DONARD PARK PLAYING FIELDS, is only for use by those who have no other way of storing their belongings whilst out on the course.

If participants have a car, or access to a car, please use it! The car park is approximately 30 metres from the start and finish area.

If participants must use our baggage tent, they do so on the condition that they use the hand sanitiser before and after entering it AND wear your face covering throughout! Only one person must be in the tent at any one time.

What if I get lost, injured or pull out?

Organisers will have tail runners in place as well as full medical resources.  The route will be fully way-marked (with temporary re-moveable items) as per Skyrunning rules, on top of this there will also be marshals on the course who will take note of runners numbers going through significant Check Points so as we can pin point any runners location within a certain area.  

Each runner will be asked carry a mobile phone as part of their mandatory kit, within this, they MUST have the Race Director's phone number stored so that they can relay the fact that they are injured, lost or have withdrawn from the race.  The Race Director's phone number will be on the final race instructions, which will be released at least one week prior to race day.

Is there a cut off time for completion of the race?

Yes, 8 hours is the cut-off time.  This is to ensure that significant numbers of runners are not left on the mountain as darkness falls.  In addition to this and with the safety of everyone in mind, there will also be a cut off at the furtherest point of the course, anyone who does not reach the NI Water Service Treatment Works (15k) by 12.15pm (race starts at 9am) will be withdrawn by a Race Official.  By entering the race, all participants are agreeing to cut-off times; anyone who fails to listen to Race Official will be disqualified. 

Can I walk the course?

No.  Due to the nature of the event, athletes will be required to run the course, however this does not include the steep peaks and technical areas where running may not be possible.  This is a running event, not a walk.

Are there many areas for spectators to watch?

Delivering the event in a COVID-19 Environment:

Unfortunately, in 2021, we would advise against spectators attending the event.  Our event uses LIVE TRACKING and we will publish the link for this on our website and social media pages ahead of the race weekend.

In previous years, spectators have turned up at the NI Water Treatment Works at Fofanny Dam.  We must re-iterate this... in line with our COVID-19 risk assessment there must be NO SPECTATORS at Fofanny Dam.  

Can I run with my dog?

No, although we do love animals, this is STRICTLY forbidden.  We are allowed to use much of the land within the Mourne Mountains by the Mourne Mountain Trustees.  As they have sheep on the land, dogs are NOT allowed to be there.

Can I wear headphones?

You may wear headphones on the majority of the route, however, you MUST NOT wear them on the one mile section of road at the half way point (as you leave Fofanny Dam).  Whilst you are off-road and wearing headphones the volume MUST be at a level were you will be able to clearly hear instructions given by marshals.  This is absolutely essential as this could be important information in relation to the route/danger.

If I enter and can't race, can I get refund or defer my entry? Can I transfer my entry?

Entry fees are non-refundable. Once we have received and accepted your entry, you will not receive a refund if you cannot participate, nor can your entry be deferred to another year.  This is detailed clearly on our entry form (conditions of entry).

Athletes who enter the event and want to transfer their entry, or amend personal details can do so via the official 'My Registration' system (detailed in your entry confirmation email) until Thursday 3/9/2021 (11:59pm). After this date, changes will not be accepted under any circumstances.

Entry fees are also non-refundable if the race has to be cancelled or postponed due to circumstances outside our control; for instance due to major incident, adverse/dangerous weather conditions or on police/outside agency advice. 

Please Note - Based on the above and relating to adverse weather conditions; as per Skyrunning regulations, we have an 'alternative' low level course earmarked should dangerous conditions force us to revise our primary route.  This will only be used in extreme circumstances, but if it is, unfortunately we cannot provide a refund, nor can we transfer entries to the following year.

Does your race support charitable causes?

Each year, Mourne Skyline MTR, if sufficient funds are brought in from the race (we are a not for profit organisation), we will select a charity who has a direct connection with the Mourne Mountains and offer a donation.