Turkey Trot - Newcastle
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Turkey Trot
The Turkey Trot is a winter fell race held on Saturday 26 December 2026, with the venue at Meelmore Lodge, Bryansford. The course is a clockwise circuit of Slieve Meelmore covering 7.5 km with approximately 400 m of ascent. The race uses a mass start format and a full kit check will be carried out before the race; incomplete kit may result in being turned away.
The route starts in the field behind Meelmore Lodge, follows the lane to the access gate, then climbs south-east on rough paths to a marker at the Trassey Track ford. Competitors continue to cols between Slieve Bearnagh and Slieve Meelmore and between Slieve Meelmore and Slieve Meelbeg, a section marked with taped canes. A fast descent through the Happy Valley leads to a marshaled marker that must be run around, then the course follows the Mourne Way back to the lane and finish. Fields and the road to the north of the boundary wall are out of bounds.
Competitors must be at least 18 years old on the day and no dogs are permitted. Recommended kit reflects winter conditions and includes trail or fell running shoes, a waterproof jacket and trousers, warm hat and gloves, map, compass, whistle and a space blanket. Parking at Meelmore Lodge is subject to a £4 fee. Online entries close on 23 December and a limited number of entries will be available on the day. Toilets, showers and post-race refreshments are available at the lodge. Winter conditions increase the risk of hypothermia so competitors should familiarise themselves with symptoms and remedies. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
