Irish Mountain
Running Association

Suitable for beginner?

AuthorDateMessage
Frank LemassJan 2 2019, 5:24pmHi folks, I recently joined IMRA and hope to start asap. I'm an experienced runner but not an experienced mountain runner. Would this event Hellfire / Jan 13 be suitable or should I wait for an 'easier' intro? Any tips - clothing, car pooling etc much appreciated. Frank
Gordon PlaceJan 2 2019, 5:35pmHi Frank, course will be fine for you. You'll want trail runners like Salomon speedcross or inov 8 xtalon or the like, and a waterproof jacket is mandatory for all races, and must be carried if not worn
Conor O'FarrellJan 2 2019, 5:41pmHi Frank

Hellfire will be as easy a race you get as an intro. There's a bit of a climb at the start, but don't let that dissuade you. It was a bit on the mucky side last year, so trail shoes would be highly advised, but you may get away with road shoes if it is dry and you are not keen on investing in trail shoes just yet.

A waterproof jacket is mandatory (carry or wear it) - best to bring something light if you have it. I bought a cheap mac-in-a-sac at first, but for the future you may think about investing in a decent waterproof jacket. Longer races often insist you have a good quality jacket with taped seams etc.

Con
Carlos NunesJan 2 2019, 9:00pmI'm also thinking of doing Hellfire race.
When do we receive our number?
Registered for the first time and would like to do some IMRA runs
Michael MannionJan 2 2019, 9:03pmRe the jacket. I picked up a breathable, waterproof jacket with taped seams in tresspass at the weekend for €40 reduced from €79.light weight packable.
Conor O'FarrellJan 2 2019, 10:53pmYou will receive your number on the day of your first race.
Frank LemassJan 3 2019, 11:20amConor, Michael and Gordon, thank you for the great information.
Andrew HerringJan 3 2019, 1:38pmLike Frank I am new to IMRA. I am a little confused as to what exactly is 'mandatory' on a run. Reading the website info under 'beginners' and 'safety' the following is written:

In the event of bad or changeable weather conditions, runners must carry additional equipment - e.g. rainproof gear, whistle, food, map and compass.

The only specialised equipment is the footwear.

Under good conditions Mountain Running is done in shorts and a flow top but race organisers can insist on full body protection and/or waterproofs. Races in the NC (navigational challenge) have a basic kit requirement which all runners must carry.

Could someone please clarify exactly what is 'mandatory' in terms of running non-NC races.
Graham K. BusheJan 3 2019, 3:16pmHi Andrew, welcome to IMRA. The one piece of equipment that is mandatory for all IMRA races is a rain jacket, To be worn or carried at all times. - Whether the race is Bray Head 6km in the Summer league or Trooperstown 10km in Winter/Spring.
Races take place at a variety of locations from forest trails to open mountains and will therefore involve varying levels of exposure to the elements. Given that, and the nature of the Irish weather, the organisers of a particular event may require participants to carry additional kit. This will be posted on that event’s details page. I hope this is of some help. Graham
Andrew HerringJan 3 2019, 3:51pmThank you for the welcome and clarification.