Mullaghcarn Giant Race

Nestled within the rolling hills of Northern Ireland's Gortin Glens Park lies the NIMRA League Medium Distance Race, an exhilarating challenge for fell runners. Scheduled to begin promptly at 12pm from the main car park on race day, this event is designed exclusively for serious trail enthusiasts who appreciate both scenic beauty and challenging terrain.
With a strict limit of 200 participants, all entries must be made online in advance; no walk-in registrations are accepted. The minimum age requirement stands firmly at 17 years old, ensuring that only experienced runners take on the demanding course. As you set off from Gortin Glens Park, prepare to tackle a rugged landscape over 12 kilometers and an ascent of 500 meters.
The race route takes participants through some of Northern Ireland's most breathtaking natural scenery as they climb towards Mullaghcarn (542m), the southernmost peak in the Sperrins range. Here lies the Giant, an iconic landmark that marks a significant milestone on your journey. The descent from this summit leads you across boggy terrain, so be sure to wear appropriate trail shoes and come prepared for wet conditions.
Race officials will ensure clear marking along the route with marshals stationed at key points to guide runners safely through challenging sections. Timing is conducted via an advanced SPORTident system using SI Cards (dibbers) that must be dipped into control boxes at each checkpoint. All participants are required to return their cards upon reaching the finish line, regardless of whether they have completed the full course.
Safety and preparedness are paramount in this fell running event. Participants should familiarize themselves with essential kit requirements such as a hat or buff, gloves, waterproof clothing including jacket and pants (with taped seams), foil blanket, fully charged mobile phone, whistle, and emergency food. These items must be carried during the race unless otherwise specified on the day by organizers based on prevailing weather conditions.
Strict adherence to NIMRA guidelines means that walking poles and headphones are not permitted throughout the event for safety reasons. Should a runner need to retire from the course at any point due to unforeseen circumstances, they should report to the nearest marshal’s post if possible and return via the safest route directly back to race organizers at the finish area.
Join fellow runners in this thrilling adventure through Northern Ireland's stunning landscapes while pushing your limits on one of the most memorable fell running routes in the region.