Best Adventure Races in Ireland 2018

By Fiona Donnellan

2018 is here and we're looking forward to some new challenges. Over the coming weeks we'll pick the best adventure races in Ireland. First up, we shine a light on Debra Ireland Wicklow Mountain Challenge.

Debra Ireland Wicklow Mountain Challenge takes place on 11 March. The event comprises of a half marathon or a 10km - starting high on the Wicklow Gap you will run into Glendalough Valley passing old mining works along the route. A short climb onto the Brockagh Mountain with a fantastic view of the Glendalough Valley and then onto the finish line.

Organisers say, "unlike road races, participants will be running through the wild terrain of the Wicklow Mountains.  It will be challenging, but we promise amazing scenery along the way."

By taking part in the DEBRA Ireland Wicklow Mountains Challenge, not only are you taking on a tough mountain race, you are also part of a team of 800 runners who are raising money for families living with EB (epidermolysis bullosa). EB is rare, which means it gets very little government funding so your support is vital. Every participant is helping to change the lives of EB families. DEBRA Ireland strives to end this heartache and pain by funding high level research programmes to find treatments and cures for EB and skin cancer. 

What better reason to get out there and take on this trail. Visit DEBRA Ireland to register.

A bit more info on the two courses; 

21km: 600m climb

From the starting line, a nice warm-up climb brings us on to a descent to where we pick up the Saint Kevin’s Way. This is the start of a long climb along forest footpaths to the highest point of the route: the Wicklow Gap. From here we follow old mining tracks and a short section of road to reach the valley floor at Glendalough. This gives us some respite before the famous sting in the tail as we tackle the tough climb through the forests on Brockagh Mountain. A gentle trail then leads us to the finish line.

10km: 440m climb

A beautiful route and a great introduction to trail running, our new 10km route starts near the Brockagh Centre and follows part of the Wicklow Way. A tough climb but short climb brings you to the top of Paddock Hill with spectacular views over the Wicklow Mountains. We follow the mountain trail as it starts its decent towards to the water station. 1km of country road leads to a short climb into the forest and the return journey to the finish line.

Keep an eye out for more features on adventure races in Ireland. Plus read our article on the Glendalough Trail in aid of Fighting Blindness here.

Photo Credit: Brian Reilly-Troy