On Saturday 9th August, runners from across the North will descend on the Silent Valley for one of the most picturesque events of the summer. The Dambusters Races are back, bringing 5K, 10K, and 10 Mile distances to this iconic spot in the Mournes.
Organised by Born to Run Events, it’s a slick and well-run race in a truly stunning setting. The Silent Valley Mountain Centre sits deep just north of the border within the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, surrounded by panoramic mountain views, peaceful reservoirs, and of course the legendary Mourne Wall. This is the kind of scenery that makes the effort truly worthwhile.
Entries Still Open – On The Day Only (Cash)
Online registration has closed, but you can still enter on the day. Cash only.
- £32 for the 5K or 10K
- £35 for the 10 Mile
Race packs were posted out in advance, so if you’re already signed up, you’re sorted. There’s no guarantee of a medal for on-the-day entries, but you’ll still get the same chip timing and race experience. Merchandise can be picked up or bought at the registration desk from 9am.
What To Expect
All three races are chip-timed (walkers excluded), and prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each distance. The prizegiving takes place at 1pm. You’ll also find a hydration station at the finish line, and water stations out on the 10K and 10 Mile routes.
Toilets are available at several points including portaloos near the start. And while there are no shower facilities on site, runners can take advantage of a pop-up sauna and plunge pool unit near the finish line, available for just £10 for 15 minutes of post-race recovery.
- 📮 Registration desk open from 9:00–11:15am for queries or entry changes
- 🅿️ NI Water charges £5 per car for parking (pay contactless)
- 🧻 Toilets available throughout the site
- 👟 Road shoes are fine
- ❌ No pets, no buggies
- 📸 Photos will be on mysportsphoto.uk and results on born2runevents.com
Dambusters is a brilliant excuse to get out of town and into one of Ireland’s most beautiful running spots.
