Killary Gaelforce are back with yet another no holds barred race in the stunning wilds of Donegal.

Donegal has begun to challenge Kerry’s crown as the Adventure Racing capital of Ireland with new races popping up and established races growing in popularity. On 22nd September, the formidable Gaelforce returns to North West Donegal to challenge both the seasoned and newly converted racers whilst showcasing some of the most spectacular scenery the northwest has to offer.

With a 62km full course and a 43km sprint course on offer both routes takes you from the jagged peaks of Glenveagh National Park via the bog and scree of Mount Errigal to the sweeping sandy beaches of Bunbeg. The terrain includes rough tracks, mountain scree, trails, sealed roads, shimmering lakes and sand dunes.

It has everything you’d expect for a Gaelforce event, It’s a tough challenge for the body and mind but you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views and of course the feeling to satisfaction and accomplishment!!!

SPRINT – 43K BREAKDOWN

1. Running/walking: 12km approx

2. Cycling: 30km approx

3. Kayaking: 1km max

**NOTE CHANGE FOR 2018:

Kayak Stage has been moved – see stage 4
Cycle Route has been changed – see stage 4 & 5

STAGE 1 TRAIL AND ROAD RUN (10KM)
Starting at the southwest end of Glenveagh Valley running along a narrow path through the Bridle Pass, passing through the grounds of Glenveagh Castle and to the bike transition in the car park.

STAGE 2 CYCLING (14KM)
Cycling on sealed tarmac roads through Glenveagh National Park, alongside the Derryveagh Mountains, to Errigal Mountain.

STAGE 3 ERRIGAL MOUNTAIN RUN/WALK (2KM)
Up to the shoulder (approximately half way up) of Mount Errigal and back down. Terrain is varied, including bog nearer the base and scree further up.
Competitors must reach the base of Errigal by 1.30pm otherwise they will not be allowed to climb.

STAGE 4 CYCLE AND KAYAK (1KM)
From the bottom of Errigal it is a short cycle of approx 3.5km to Dunlewy Centre and the Kayak transition. There is a time out at the kayak transition except for those in Wave 1 competing for a podium position. The boats are tandem sit-on-top kayaks. You will paddle a looped course on the lake.

STAGE 5 CYCLING AND FINAL RUN (13KM)

For the final stage you will cycle back on to the R251 turning left. At the next T Junction you will turn left on to the N56. After approx 3km in Gweedore you will turn right on to the R258 into Bunbeg. Turn right at the T-junction and follow marshals and sign posting to Inishcool Beach.

The race ends with a short run along the dunes to the finish line

FULL – 62K BREAKDOWN

DISCIPLINE DISTANCES IN THE 62KM COURSE:

1. Running/walking: 19.5km approx

2. Cycling: 40.5km approx

3. Kayaking: 2km max

**NOTE CHANGE FOR 2018:

Kayak Stage has been moved – see stage 4
Cycle Route has been changed – see stage 4 & 5

STAGE 1 TRAIL AND ROAD RUN (15.5KM)
Starting at the southwest end of Glenveagh Valley running along a narrow path through the Bridle Pass, into the grounds of Glenveagh Castle and up and over Gartan Mountain (200m height) to Gartan Lake. This is a remarkable run through the valley and past Lough Veagh. Watch out for the Golden Eagles!

STAGE 2 CYCLING (24KM)
Cycling on sealed tarmac roads through Glenveagh National Park and alongside the Derryveagh Mountains, to Errigal Mountai

STAGE 3 ERRIGAL MOUNTAIN RUN/WALK (4KM)
A marked route is followed up and down Mount Errigal.

Competitors must reach the base of Errigal by 1.30pm otherwise they will not be allowed to climb.

STAGE 4 ERRIGAL MOUNTAIN RUN/WALK (2KM)
From the bottom of Errigal it is a short cycle of approx 3.5km to Dunlewy Centre and the Kayak transition. There is a time out at the kayak transition except for those in Wave 1 competing for a podium position. The boats are tandem sit-on-top kayaks. You will paddle a looped course on the lake.

STAGE 5 CYCLING AND FINAL RUN (13.5KM)
For the final stage you will cycle back on to the R251 turning left. At the next T Junction you will turn left on to the N56.After approx 3km in Gweedore you will turn right on to the R258 into Bunbeg. Turn right at the T-junction and follow marshals and sign posting to Inishcool Beach.
The race ends with a short run along the dunes to the finish line.

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