Night Challenge 3: Pier Gates
Ballinastoe, Ireland • 9 Oct 2026
Night Challenge 3: Pier Gates
The Night Challenge 3: Pier Gates is a mountain running event held in County Wicklow. The race starts and finishes near the Lough Tay and Lough Dan Carpark, where participants can find parking and portable toilets. This event is part of a night running series and features two distinct routes:
- 11 km
- 5 km
The long course covers 11 km with approximately 450 meters of ascent. This route includes a mix of technical terrain, bog, boardwalk, forest trails, and open mountain sections. Registrants for the long course must be 18 years or older. A short course of 5 km with 170 meters of climb is also available for both runners and walkers aged 14 and older. The shorter route remains on forest trails and boardwalks without entering open mountain terrain.
Both routes are fully marked, though the use of GPS devices is not permitted. Due to the nature of night running on mountain terrain, specific mandatory kit is required for all participants. This includes a headtorch, a reflective band or rear light, a waterproof jacket, a hat or buff, gloves, a whistle, a charged mobile phone, and a foil blanket or bivvy bag.
Registration takes place at the northeast corner of the carpark before the event. The organizers provide tea, coffee, and cake for participants afterward, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own cups. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.