Night Challenge 3: Pier Gates

Night Challenge 3: Pier Gates

Organiser: Irish Mountain Running Association. Night Challenge Pier Gates route was first held in 2025 and takes place in County Wicklow on Friday 9th October 2026. The route is fully marked and GPS navigation is not permitted. The event carries a difficulty rating of 7 with 200 m to 500 m ascent and a course length greater than 10 km.

• 11 km long course, c.450 m climb, runners age 18 or older eligible
• 5 km short course, c.170 m climb, runners and walkers age 14 or older eligible

The long course includes technical terrain, bog, muck, boardwalk, forest trail and open mountain. The short course stays off open mountain and uses forest trails with some boardwalk and technical sections. Weather on the hills may be variable and can include strong winds and mist or rain.

Mandatory kit is Level B. Participants must carry a HEADTORCH and all Level B items: waterproof jacket, hat or buff, gloves, whistle, charged mobile phone with an emergency number stored, and a foil blanket or bivvy bag. Organisers will confirm the final kit requirements on the day. Failure to carry required items may result in denied entry or disqualification and random kit checks may be carried out.

Parking and registration are at the Lough Tay / Lough Dan carpark. Usual parking charges apply and are payable by card with tiered rates. Prizegiving is at the carpark and refreshments including cake will be available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.