Faq
What does my entry fee include?
- Event technical t-shirt
- Race number with electronic timing device
- Use of kayaks, paddles and buoyancy aids
- Race medal upon completion
- Post-event food
- Fully marked route with marshals at key points
- Safety cover
Is this event suitable for First Timers?
Gaelforce Connemara is a great choice as your first experience of adventure racing and there are usually quite a few first timers taking part. The distances are manageable - you will need to train but won't have to give over your life over to it. With 3 different disciplines you won't get bored and though one discipline might not be your strength another could well be! And of course, there is always great camaraderie and support on the day and an amazing sense of achievement when you cross that finish line.
Which wave should I enter?
You can choose to enter any wave. If you want to compete for an overall winner or a category prize, you must enter Wave 1 / Elite when you sign up for this event.
Can I change my wave?
We cannot facilitate any wave changes after you have entered this event, so please make sure to sign up for your preferred wave when you enter. If your preferred wave is sold out, it will no longer be visible online and you must choose an alternative wave.
What are the locations of registration, the start line & finish line?
Registration for this event is by post. Your Race Pack will be sent out 8 days before the event takes place.
The start line and finish line is at Killary Adventure Centre.
Please note that this may be subject to change. Final details will be posted on the website and emailed to all competitors 2 weeks before the event.
What is the mandatory kit for Gaelforce Connemara?
Mandatory Kit
This mandatory kit MUST be carried throughout the event. You will not be allowed to start without it:
- Survival blanket and whistle
- Windproof/waterproof top
- Cycle helmet (can be left with your bike at the transition area)
- Basic bike repair kit
- Water bottle
- Face mask (Covid-19)
There are water refilling stations at transition points along the route. To protect our local environment, we do not give out water bottles or cups at this event.
Recommended Kit
We also recommend that you have:
- Suitable cycling shoes and gloves
- Sturdy walking/running shoes
- Waterproof leggings
- Course map
- Energy food and drink
Please be aware that parts of the route are off-road and it may take a while for medical aid to reach you should you need it.
What running shoes should I wear?
Trail runners would be ideal for this event, as apart from the first 4km, the rest of the route is on trail and hill. Trail runners are not mandatory, so any running shoe you are comfortable running in will be absolutely fine. Please be aware that standard running shoes may be slippy on downhill sections of the route, so you will need to take extra care.
What type of bike should I use for Gaelforce Connemara?
This event takes place on sealed roads, so a road bike or hybrid bike is best.
Please be aware that there is one short, very dangerous downhill section on this route. You must obey all road signs.
Can I use aerobars on my bike?
No. Aerobars are not allowed and must be taken off for the event.
Can I hire a bike for the event?
Please note that Gaelforce Events does NOT operate any bike hire for this event.
Bike hire facilities can be found in Clifden or Westport. We can recommend the following bike hire:
Clew Bay Bike Hire in Westport. Contact them at info@clewbaybikehire.ie to find out more about their bike hire service and the range of bikes available.
Are there any timeouts along the route?
No. There are no timeouts along the route for this event.
What facilities are at the finish line?
You will receive a Finishers Pack at the finish line containing your finishers medal, finishers t-shirt, fruit & sweets.
There are water bottle refilling stations at the finish line and freshly made soup & bread will also be available.
What happens if I cancel my event entry?
All entry fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. This includes transfers to other years, events or competitors. Please do make sure that you can commit to both the event and the training before you enter one of our events.