Flagstaff to Carlingford

Carlingford, Ireland • 21 Jun 2026

Flagstaff to Carlingford Mountain Race

The Flagstaff to Carlingford is a mountain running event covering a distance of 16.7 km. Part of both the Leinster Championship and the NIMRA Championships, the course features approximately 1050 meters of total ascent across difficult terrain. The race is a point to point route beginning at Flagstaff in County Louth and concluding in the village of Carlingford.

Participants navigate several checkpoints during the event, including Anglesey Mountain, Clermont, Black Mountain, Carnawaddy Mountain, Windy Gap, and Slieve Foye. The finish line is located at the lane leading into the main street of Carlingford. The route is not marked, and the use of GPS devices for navigation is prohibited. Athletes are required to have navigation skills and local knowledge, as the terrain is susceptible to poor visibility and mist.

Safety regulations require a mandatory Level C advanced kit for all runners. This equipment includes:

  • Waterproof jacket with integrated hood and taped seams
  • Waterproof full leg cover
  • Hat or buff and gloves
  • Whistle and foil blanket or bivvy bag
  • Charged mobile phone with emergency numbers
  • Compass and map of the route
  • Minimum of 500 mL water and emergency food

A coach transfer to the start line is provided for the first 70 registered athletes. Registration takes place at the Tourist Information Office Car Park in Carlingford. Following the race, refreshments and prize ceremonies are held at The Foy Centre on Dundalk Street. The minimum age for participation is 17 years old. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

17 km
Flagstaff to Carlingford Mountain Race
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

A medium distance open mountain race of about 13 km with 682 m ascent in the Mournes, organised by Newry AC. The route follows the Mourne Way, includes five checkpoints and requires mandatory mountain kit and some navigation.

Test your limits at the Corox 2.0 Fitness Challenge in Tyrone. This outdoor event combines eight functional exercise stations with interval runs on a one kilometer track for singles and doubles.

An 8 km forest path race with 300 m climb in Castlewellan Forest Park. It is the first race in the 2026 Hills and Dales series, organised by Newcastle AC and based at the Life Adventure Centre.

An 8 km, 300 m climb fell race at Tollymore Upper Car Park on 23 April 2026, the second race in the 2026 Hills and Dales series. Entries via SiEntries with a minimum age of 15 and specified kit and number rules.