About

The Race is a 250 km unsupported endurance event across the rugged landscape of North West Donegal.

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To finish competitors have to complete 15km of kayaking, 166km of cycling, 5km of mountain running and 64km of road and trail running. Crucially, they must complete all this in under 24 hours. It is aimed at providing the ultimate 24 hour test of endurance.

North West Donegal has been chosen for The Race 2021 as it provides the perfect blend of beauty and more importantly, difficulty. The Race is held in spring to increase the chances of challenging weather conditions during the event. It is the toughest of courses at the toughest of times. In many cases it is how an athlete deals with the wind, rain or snow that will determine if they have what it takes to finish.

There is no typical competitor. Competitors come from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines. You do not need to be an elite runner, cyclist or kayaker. Those who compete in and complete The Race will be those who refuse to give up.

The focus of the The Race will be on the quality of experience rather than quantity of participants. The field will be limited to 150 participants to protect the local environment which includes Glenveagh National Park. The intention is not to exclude but rather to create an experience that will be one of the toughest but also most memorable of a competitor's life.

The Race is a not for profit event with the proceeds going towards the work of Self Help Africa. It is organised by Sand2Snow Adventures and Gartan Outdoor Education Center.

The Race is more than just an endurance event. It get's inside your skin and becomes a part of who you are. It forces you to apply yourself in preparation for the race in ways that you never thought possible. And during the race you overcome obstacles that would have you turning for home on any other day. You come out of it a more confident and resilient person to whom anything is possible. And of course you become part of a community of fellow competitors. People who are always happy to hear from you if you have any crazy ideas!! - Paul Tierney, Competitor 2016

Awesome event, put on by an amazing team, in an incredibly beautiful county. Definitely one for the bucket list. - Rose Leith, Competitor 2015

 

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  • Name: Anthony Boyle Nationality: IrishBackgroundMy main reason for entering is that I would like the opportunity to test my mental and
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    Anthony Boyle

  • Name: Jeff Butler Nationality: IrishBackground (Reasons for attempting The Race) Always wanted to do longer expedition style races - and this looks
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    Jeff Butler

  • Name: George Kelly Nationality: Irish Background  Two of my sons have entered the 2016 Race. I have always encouraged my sons to
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    George Kelly

  • Name Oisin Weldon Nationality Irish Background (Reasons for attempting The Race) The score is Oisin 1- The Race 1, so
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    Oisin Weldon

  • Name Kevin Kelly Nationality Irish Background (Reasons for attempting The Race) Engineer living and working in Scotland having just spent
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    Kevin Kelly

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REGISTER

There are limited places available for THE RACE. Signing up now is the first step towards one of the toughest and most rewarding experiences of your life. 

SIGN UP NOW 

RACE MAP

Spanning 250km, THE RACE course hugs Donegal's spectacular coast, ascends one of its highest peaks and winds its way through rugged wilderness. 

THE RACE MAP 

COMPETITORS

A small field means a personalised experience for each competitor. Our experts are on hand to offer advice with regard to preparation, training and nutrition.

COMPETITORS GUIDE