New Fun Run 10km in Marley - Nov

Dow99

Hey folks,
My OH works for the Lifeboats (RNLI) and they have put together a great family fun run with 5km and 10km options. It's on the 28th of Nov in Marley Park, Dublin.
Its a bit of fun and as its near Christmas all runners get a sporting pair of reindeer antlers for the run!!!
All the money raised at the event will do directly to the Irish Lifeboats!!

http://www.rnli.org.uk/how_to_support_us/events/event_detail?articleid=603586&categoryid=21882

kennyb3

Thanks, this is a good addition to the calendar. Just one question, what is being done to ensure the course is measured accurately? Not trying to be smart, just some of the races run have a history of being short or long. Proper course measurement is a must. If people (myself included) know it will be accurate they are more likely to turn up.

DustyBin

+1 to what kennyb said
I'm starting into a 10k specific training programme that is going to take me into November, it'd be a right pain in the ass if I ended up running an inaccurately measured course after 8 - 10 weeks of training
On the other hand, how great would it be to be able to pop up the road to Marley Park and run an accurately measured course that raised money for a very worthy charity
I realise that Dow99 is not directly involved in the organising of this, but maybe someone from RNLI could advise if it is purely a 'fun run' of approx 10k, or will there be steps taken to ensure the accuracy of the distance

RNLIevents

Hi All,

Delighted to hear that there may be some interest here in this new event.
I thought I'd give you all a few more details of the event and hope that you'll all be excited to add this to your winter running calendar.

The RNLI Reindeer Runs have been taking place across the UK over the past few years to much success and even in Killarney last year. This is the first time we have brought the event to Dublin.

While this is, at its core, a fundraising event, we would of course also aim that it will be a worthwhile training event for all of you involved in running. As a runner myself, I understand the concerns involved.

There will be a 5k fun run where fancy dress etc. will be encouraged and there will also be a 10k run which will be a double lap of the 5k course. Starting times will be staggered so that the two races will not be mixed.
The course will be mapped out using GPS technology and so should be as accurate as possible.
There will be clocks at the start/finish line but chip timing will not be used.

I hope this clarifies a few things for you all and encourages you to participate and potentially to fundraise on our behalf. After all, it's a great cause.

<Mod snip>

ultraman1

RNLIevents wrote: »

The course will be mapped out using GPS technology and so should be as accurate as possible.

Gps recievers have an accuracy levl of of about + or - 4/5 % and thats in an open area, factor in the trees in marley park and mite get even worse.only way to do it is have it accuatly measured by a qualified course measurer using a jones counter to avoid any mutterings of discontent afterwards.....

macinalli

+1 for getting the course measured. I'm looking for a race in November and this one seems perfect. However I won't sign-up unless it's a measured course...

RNLIevents

Thanks for the feedback.
I'm certainly going to look into having the course measured. Is there a particular body that normally govern this? Athletics Ireland??

I'll keep you all posted as to how it goes.

donothoponpop

RNLIevents wrote: »

Thanks for the feedback.
I'm certainly going to look into having the course measured. Is there a particular body that normally govern this? Athletics Ireland??

I'll keep you all posted as to how it goes.

You could have a read of this thread for a start. AAI will give you a list of certified course measurers.

One thing at this early stage, might be to decide if you are a "fun run", or a 10k targeting those runners who are concerned with pb's etc. A lot of new races try to be both, and generally fail one set of the runners.

henryporter

Its great to see another run on the calendar, especially at that time of year. And for a brilliant cause as well. Might tie in nicely with people doing the Waterford Half two weeks afterwards.

Cheerilee

now this is one I can actually do:) round the corner from where I live a good cause

nerraw1111

The irony of measuring the course with a GPS is that you would have practically zero complaints about the course being short/long after the race from GPS wearing runners.

Krusty_Clown

nerraw1111 wrote: »

The irony of measuring the course with a GPS is that you would have practically zero complaints about the course being short/long after the race from GPS wearing runners.

The chance of getting two GPS devices to agree over a fixed distance are pretty small.

Best of luck with the race, RNLIevents. Might be best to position this one as a fun run, to avoid the wrath of the serious racers. Can you turn up and pay on the day?

RNLIevents

Thanks Krusty.
I think you're right. This event is primarily a fun run and really has to remain so. We would of course be delighted to have the involvement of runners who are looking for a 10k at that time of the year and we will measure the course to the very best of our ability. After that, I guess it's a runner's own choice.

To answer the question about registering on the day, it is something that we are trying to avoid from a logistical point of view. Registration is simple either online at the link posted by the OP or by contacting our Dublin office.

tang1

Think i'll do this, was looking for a run near the end of November to do. Great cause to support aswell.

tHE vAGGABOND

tried to sign up twice but it keeps timing out when I get to the part where I input the payment

RNLIevents

Tang1 - we'd be delighted to have you on board. If you would like a paper version of the registration form (rather than online) just pm me.

Vaggabond - there were some small hitches on the online registration system. I have been assured that these have been corrected now. So you might like either to try again or to let me know by pm and I can send you a paper registration form.

For all, you'll be glad to know now that the course for this event (both 5k and 10k) will be measured by an AI certified measurer.
Should be a great event - the more the merrier. Register at http://www.rnli.org.uk/how_to_support_us/events/event_detail?articleid=603586&categoryid=21882

Dow99

RNLIevents wrote: »

you'll be glad to know now that the course for this event (both 5k and 10k) will be measured by an AI certified measurer.

Great News!!!!! And prefect location for a lot of people, it's sure to be a great day!! :D

Dow99

You can now register for this event through the Run Ireland Website

http://www.runireland.com/events/rnli-reindeer-run-5k-10k

maria74

Is there a route anywhere for this does anyone know?
Was considering (maybe??) doing 10k! But dont want to be last one coming in, havent run 10K yet (8.5 yesterday) but I would say it will take me 1hr anyway. Any thoughts? Persume there wont be walkers on 10k...maybe I should stick to 5k??

Dow99

maria74 wrote: »

Was considering (maybe??) doing 10k! But dont want to be last one coming in, havent run 10K yet (8.5 yesterday) but I would say it will take me 1hr anyway. Any thoughts? Persume there wont be walkers on 10k...maybe I should stick to 5k??

If you can do 8.5k you will have no problem doing 10km and if you are aiming to do it in an hour you will be far from last. Trust me, to get under an hour is really good!!! There are going to be people walk/jogging the route as well.

I did my first 10km in April during the Great Ireland Run in 1hr 4mins and my longest run before that was 8km.. I've been hooked on running since and just completed my first 1/2 marathon 2 weeks ago (21km!!!) So sign up and get hooked!!!!

RNLIevents

maria74 wrote: »

Is there a route anywhere for this does anyone know?

Hi Maria,
There hasn't been a map of the route released I'm afraid. I'm not sure how familiar you are with Marlay Park but the route is entirely within the grounds, taking in most of the perimeter as well as some sections through the wooded areas. The route is 5k and the 10k race is twice around the course.
I hope this helps.

IrishSailor

Deadly, didnt know about this run until yesterday. Totally be there! Will try and huff and puff my way around the 10k! As my username suggests the RNLI is quite important to me! I think you guys do amazing work.

Is there other events or stuff coming up or do you have an events calender? Im sure some others in my club would be interested in doing a bit more for the life boats even if it was just a one off thing.

Cheers.

IS.

central park

I don't know Marlay Park at all so wondering if it is on tarmac, grass or what, also if it's flat or hilly. Doing Aware 10K in Dec and very familiar with the Phoenix Park routes, so for all the people who know both parks, which is easier?? Thanks

huskerdu

central park wrote: »

I don't know Marlay Park at all so wondering if it is on tarmac, grass or what, also if it's flat or hilly. Doing Aware 10K in Dec and very familiar with the Phoenix Park routes, so for all the people who know both parks, which is easier?? Thanks

It will be two laps of the path at the parimeter of the park. Could be
useful to look at the aeriel photo on google maps.

Should be very flat. I dont know all the paths, but I think it will all be tarmac.

The only problem I see is that I think some of the paths are quite narrow.
I dont know where they are starting it, but it might be a bit crowded if the paths are narrow.

central park

Thanks for that info. Not too worried about it being narrow as just doing it to support the RNLI so will have a bit of crack on the day!

Woddle

I do alot of running in marlay and I wouldn't class it as flat but more of a slight incline with a nice bit of downhill. I normally run on the outside of the park and 1 lap would be 2 miles ish
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/56508064

When looking at the garmin link, marlay park is 1.2 to 3.2 miles

menoscemo

central park wrote: »

I don't know Marlay Park at all so wondering if it is on tarmac, grass or what, also if it's flat or hilly. Doing Aware 10K in Dec and very familiar with the Phoenix Park routes, so for all the people who know both parks, which is easier?? Thanks

Marlay Park is defiately not flat, but then again either is phoenix park. I think it is much of a muchness.

central park

Yes, PP is definitely not flat, but was hoping Marlay Park was...still it's one foot in front of the other and off we go!;) Thanks to all!

huskerdu

In the interests of research, I just ran around some of the Marley Park perimeter.

I stand corrected, it is not flat, but the incline is fairly gentle.
Dont know about the second half. Ran out of time, before they closed the park.

When I got back to the main gate it was locked, had to go in search of a gate.
Didn't take long, I was worried I'd end up having to as far as the back gate when all I wanted to do was run the 2k home.

huskerdu

Woddle wrote: »

I do alot of running in marlay and I wouldn't class it as flat but more of a slight incline with a nice bit of downhill. I normally run on the outside of the park and 1 lap would be 2 miles ish
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/56508064

When looking at the garmin link, marlay park is 1.2 to 3.2 miles

I am surprised that they have a 5k lap of the park, didn't think it was as long as that, but its measured so will be interesting to see what route it is.

W.B. Yeats

central park wrote: »

Yes, PP is definitely not flat, but was hoping Marlay Park was...still it's one foot in front of the other and off we go!;) Thanks to all!

By comparison with the hills in PP the hills in Marlay on the perimeter are much gentler
There is one steepish bit that comes from the perimeter of the park into the middle as it were but that aside its fairly benign
Haven't run anything since Barry's half 4 weeks ago, need a target as my running has suffered dramatically with no event in sight

RNLIevents

Hi All,

Thought Id come and give some insight in terms of the route.
Everybody is correct - Marlay is not quite flat but the inclines are quite gentle. There are no killer hills.
As for the route - the perimeter is indeed too short in itself so the loop does include some of Marlay's inner routes. The surface is in parts tarmac, in parts forest paths and for one very short stretch of about 150m its on grass.

We're getting really excited now at our first big fundraising run and I look forward to seeing you there.
We'll have Clelia Murphy (Niamh from Fair City) there on the day to kick off proceedings and Don't forget - festive fancy dress is definitely encouraged - we're all after a bit of a lift.
Antlers and Red noses will be provided and a mince pie and a hot cuppa will await each runner after the race

petermijackson

Everybody is correct - Marlay is not quite flat but the inclines are quite gentle. There are no killer hills.
As for the route - the perimeter is indeed too short in itself so the loop does include some of Marlay's inner routes. The surface is in parts tarmac, in parts forest paths and for one very short stretch of about 150m its on grass.

Just wondering if you have a map of the course that you can make available? Are there many tight corners on the course?

RNLIevents

I haven't made maps available simply because the course measurement has only happened this week and I wanted to avoid difficulties if changes were required, which they were!!
There are a couple of corners in the route - unavoidable really at that venue.

AdpRo

Just signed up for this and the aware 10K, need to start training now! Aim will be to get under 1 hr here and then beat that in the aware!

central park

Same targets for me! Good Luck with them.

Dotcomdolly

I'm signed up for the 5k, my first race back after battling recurring injury since last July. I'll prob end up slower than my first ever 5k :rolleyes: but as long as I finish....I can't wait to race again!

loly

I only signed up for the 10k today. Can someone tell me if the numbers are posted out or do I bring a print-out on the day to collect my number?

central park

I got my race pack and number in the post a few weeks ago, not sure if Dublin based runners have to pick up on the day or not but runners outside Dublin should have them sent. Drop them an email.

Jk_Eire

Signed up for the 10k + t-shirt today. Any ideas what the t-shirt is like?

Aiming for under 48 mins to beat my mo-Run time from last Saturday.

Dotcomdolly

Jk_Eire wrote: »

Signed up for the 10k + t-shirt today. Any ideas what the t-shirt is like?

Aiming for under 48 mins to beat my mo-Run time from last Saturday.

I think these are them

loly

Has anyone heard if the race is going ahead tomorrow with the snow & current weather conditions or when it will be rescheduled for?

Dow99

loly wrote: »

Has anyone heard if the race is going ahead tomorrow with the snow & current weather conditions or when it will be rescheduled for?

Yes, it is still going ahead for tomorrow . Stay posted on boards for updates as the weather develops.

loly

I just received a mail from rnli confirming that the race is going to go ahead tomorrow.

"We are planning to go ahead tomorrow.
Of course we will be advising caution and warm clothing given the weather conditions, but are hoping that the weather will add to the Christmas atmosphere.
We're looking forward to the day and think it will make it all the more atmospheric, and above all it should be fun."

geld

loly wrote: »

"We are planning to go ahead tomorrow.
Of course we will be advising caution and warm clothing given the weather conditions, but are hoping that the weather will add to the Christmas atmosphere."

....didn't mention the probable slippery conditions underfoot. Enjoy it but be careful out there.

petermijackson

I'm not worried about running in the ice/snow - I would be worried about getting to the park considering road conditions....

RNLIevents

Hi all,

Unfortunately due to the severe weather conditions the RNLI Reindeer Run due to take place today Sunday 28th November in Marlay Park, Dublin has been cancelled. We are really disappointed but safety has to come first.

We will try to see if we can reschedule the event and keep you posted.

Thanks for your understanding.

Dotcomdolly

Hats off to the RNLI admin staff, I'm sure you'd prefer not to be spending your early Sunday morning ringing 500 people.
Hope you get to reschedule...next weekend clashes with Jingle Bells, and then the Snta Dash is on in Marlay on the 12th...

donothoponpop

RNLIevents wrote: »

Hi all,

Unfortunately due to the severe weather conditions the RNLI Reindeer Run due to take place today Sunday 28th November in Marlay Park, Dublin has been cancelled. We are really disappointed but safety has to come first.

We will try to see if we can reschedule the event and keep you posted.

Thanks for your understanding.

It can't have been an easy call to cancel your first event a few hours before the off, but it shows that you treat participant safety as an important issue, which should be commended. Hopefully your rescheduled date will bring even greater numbers.

My Thoughts

Dotcomdolly wrote: »

Hats off to the RNLI admin staff, I'm sure you'd prefer not to be spending your early Sunday morning ringing 500 people.
Hope you get to reschedule...next weekend clashes with Jingle Bells, and then the Snta Dash is on in Marlay on the 12th...

+1, superb organisation, post on boards, an email and a follow-up call. Can't ask for better than that.

central park

Totally agree! Its nice when we get a phone call to let us know if event is going ahead as planned. I had come to Dublin from Galway so had no access to my email. Safety considerations are first and foremost so well done to organisers and good luck if you're rescheduling. Will try to be there but going back on Dec 11th for Aware 10k!