Race Information – Runners
The half marathon is exactly 13.1 miles and has two long uphill sections followed of course by equally interesting down sections. The course takes in the best views of what the Cooley’s has to offer. As you approach Goylin Pass overlooking Carlingford Lough, you will encounter some breath-taking views. It has a variety of surfaces from forest roads to rocky sheep tracks and some surfaced minor roads, making for a challenging off-road run. The race finishes in the village of Carlingford, a short walk from the Sailing Club where refreshments are available.
Bus Departures:-
All buses will take you from Carlingford at 9.15am (SHARP), to the Lumpers Pub, in plenty of time before the start, @ 10am.
10k runners/walkers buses will leave the Sailing club at 9.45am (SHARP) for a 10.30am start at the Windy Gap (Long Womans Grave)
Cost of entry and other information relating to the 2012 event is as follows:
Entries Open: Now Open
Entries Close: Midnight – Wednesday 18th April 2012
Course: Cooley Legends Half Marathon – 21.1k
Cost of entry, inclusive of all charges is now €37
A contribution from each entry received will be donated between Carlingford Red Cross and Clougherhead Life Boat.
Race Check-in Carlingford Sailing Club:
Friday 20th April from 7 pm to 9 pm. All runners to check in at this time, if possible.
Saturday 21st April 7.30am to 8.30am. Limited check-in only.
The Route:
The Cooley Legends Half Marathon starts on a prolonged climb over the shoulder of the Cooley Range. In this case 6 kilometres, with a climb of around 330m (a very gentle 5.5% gradient but with a few much steeper spots). A fast descent follows, dropping 200m in 2km before a long flattish stretch as you run firsty north to the ‘Long Woman’s Grave’ then south in the shadow of Carlingford Mountain. Just after the 14km point you climb over the shoulder of Carlingford Mountain a climb of about 150m and of two kilometres length. The second climb, with its 7.5% ascent grade is tougher than the first in those terms, and could prove decisive if the battle is still close at this point. You finish with 3 kilometres of furious downhill until you hit sea-level outside Carlingford to run the final 2.1km on flat tarmac.
Sixty percent of the race is on trail, mainly over the shoulders of the two Cooley mountains braved on the day. The rest is tarmac road.
The categories for prizes are as follows:
Trophies and medals will be on offer for participants of the race, of which some will be given as spot prizes, giving everybody a chance of a prize !!
Open Men (18-39); Veteran Men (40-49); Classic Men (50+)
Open Woman (18-39); Veteran Woman (40-49); Classic Woman (50+)
Carlingford Lough
What Type of Terrain
The race will start and finish on surfaced roads, with 60% of the course off/road so trail shoes are highly recommended. At this time of year the mountain could be damp !! If dry, and you are a competent off-road runner, then road runners should be suitable, at your own risk of course, the choice is yours.
Safety is First and Foremost:
All racers are required to follow the rules of the road on the public roads – staying to the left, obeying the instructions of Gardaí, marshals, etc.
Participants should note, it is also essential that all competitors undertake a training programme in the months leading up to this event to ensure the day is a memorable one, for all the right reasons.
Participants must be aware that weather conditions in the area can change and deteriorate rapidly and should bring appropiate clothing to keep them warm in any adverse weather.
Can I take part and raise money for a Charity
You may choose to raise money from your participation in this event for any charity of your choice. Download our sponsorship form and paste your charities logo thereon. A contribution from each entry received will be donated between Carlingford Red Cross and Clougherhead Life Boat. Details will be posted on this site in the days following this event.
This is your kit list:
This optional kit may be worn or carried for the duration of the event. You should also bring all equipment to registration.
A good sence of humor !! Essential
Running shoes (trail runners recommended)
Hydration pack or water bottle – optional
Energy snacks
Mobile phone in waterproof bag/container
Windproof top & hat
Whistle & Space blanket (optional)
(Adverse weather can spring up very suddenly, you should be prepared throughout the event)
Come prepared, final decision on mandatory kit will be announced at ‘Race Briefing’ on Saturday morning at 8.40am at the sailing club.
The course and route to the start:
The course will be fully waymarked.
The MapMyTri for route to start HERE You will be taken there by bus.
Garmin GPS map of half-marathon course, please follow link HERE
Updated GPS map of route HERE
