Here’s a concise overview for Slieve Donard 2026:
🏔️ Slieve Donard – Irish Championship / Irish Uphill League
📅 Date: Saturday, 30th May 2026
⏰ Start Time: 11:00
📍 Location: Newcastle Centre → Donard Park (Finish)
📏 Distance: 10 km
⬆️ Climb: 850 m
⚠️ Difficulty: 8 – Difficult Terrain (>500 m ascent, 6–10 km sections)
🗺️ Route: Only major junctions marked; navigation skills required, especially on descent
🎯 Checkpoints: Saddle Cairn → Summit → Quarry Gate (must visit in order)
🎒 Mandatory Kit (Level C – Advanced):
Waterproof jacket with hood & taped seams, waterproof trousers
Hat/buff, gloves, whistle
Charged mobile phone, foil blanket/bivvy bag
Minimum 500 mL water, emergency food
Map & compass
💡 Key Info:
Summit is not the finish; all runners must descend to football pitches
Cut-off: 75 mins to Saddle Cairn
No headphones, earpieces, or trekking poles
High fitness and navigation skills required
Part of IMRA All-Ireland Championships & Irish Uphill League
Trial race for Snowdon International 2026
🔗 More info & entry: IMRA Slieve Donard
🔗 Snowdon Race info: Snowdon International
This is a technical, challenging mountain race—only for well-prepared runners. 🧭⛰️