How does it work?
Put a team together of between 3-5 people and encourage each other to train and to do their best on the day. The team covers the distance of the full marathon between them.
Who registers the team?
One member registers the whole team and this person will be sent all the race material, including labels etc to distribute to the other team members. This person does not have to run the first stage of the marathon but can choose whichever one they like.
Which relay stage should I pick?
It is a good idea for you to choose the stage of the relay marathon which you think will suit you best; there are a range of distances from 3.5 to 8 miles, and the type of terrain you will be crossing varies too. For detailed descriptions of each stage see opposite.
How do I hand over at the end of each relay stage?
The first member of each relay team will have a band attached to their wrist which they will hand over to the next team member at the start of the second relay stage. The time of the last member to cross the line will be posted on the website.
How do I get to the start of my relay stage?
All relay participants will arrive to Strokestown Park and will be bused to the start of their relay stages. Relay stage two people will leave on the bus at 10 a.m.
How do I rejoin my colleagues?
All relay participants will be collected from the end of their relay stages and brought back to Strokestown Park for all end-of race facilities and to see the final member of their team finishing.
What happens if one member drops out before the marathon day?
If one member drops out before the race it is possible for another team member to complete two relay stages.
Can we run/walk for charity?
Yes you can pick a favourite charity if you like as an extra incentive to complete the marathon. Contact the charity to get their permission and support.
How should I train?
Pick a training schedule that suits you, your current level of fitness and your lifestyle – there are many on the web. Try and stick to it but don’t worry if you miss an occasional session. If you haven’t done exercise before consult with your doctor before you start and start off gently with a walking training schedule before progessing to jogging if you wish. Even if you intend to walk the distance you still need to train!
Race matters
There will be water stations as close to every 3 miles (5km) as possible but there will be some variation on this as space on the route dictates; one will be close to the start and end of each relay stage.
There will be markers every mile on the route.
All distances will be as precisely measured under Athletics Association of Ireland rules but in general relay stages are less accurate as the handover point can stretch out.
Relay members at hand-over stages will keep to the right hand side of the road to allow full and half marathon participants pass unimpeded on the left.
The junctions will be manned by local marshals who will endeavour to keep the route clear of vehicular and other traffic, ensure participants follow route directions and will provide support where needed.
The major junctions will be managed by An Garda Siochana.
The roads will be closed to vehicular traffic until 6 p.m. After that participants who haven’t completed the race will share the road with traffic.
A couple of surprises will also occur along the route which hopefully will encourage participants. |
