Question 1

The course - All you need to know

Accepted Answer

It’s a looped route that comes in a little under 10 miles. The start line is at the Tin Pub, Ahakista (P75 HX60) and you follow the road for 500 metres before joining the Glanlough route along the mountain trail.

A gradual early climb will get the blood flowing before you reach the first water sta

Question 2

Do I get my race number in the post?

Accepted Answer

No. You collect your race number on the morning of the event at the Tin Pub, Ahakista.

Question 3

Just how difficult is the course? Could I get lost?

Accepted Answer

With the Sheep's Head Challenge, the clue is in the title. It is an up - more than 500 metres elevation gain - and down course, with breathtaking views throughout. There will be signage (mile signs and directional arrows, as well as over 200 pink marker flags) throughout, so getting lost would be di

Question 4

How long will it take me?

Accepted Answer

The first runner crossed the line in1 hour 22 minutes in 2025, but the bulk of the runners were between 1hr 40 minutes and 2hrs 30 minutes. The final runners crossed the line a little over the three hour mark. The first walker took 2hrs 35 minutes, with the final walker coming home in under 4 hours.

Question 5

Where is the start line? Is there parking nearby?

Accepted Answer

The start and finish line for all is the Tin Pub, Ahakista (Eircode - P75 HX60) with refreshments in the garden afterwards. There will be no parking at the bar, so anyone driving to Ahakista will be directed to parking at Ahakista Lodge (Eircode - P75 E303), a 400 metre walk to the bar.

Question 6

What do I get for my entry fee?

Accepted Answer

Once we have medical, insurance and some organisational costs covered, 100% of the profits will be split between the local Muintir Bhaire Foroige and Scouts groups. There will be freshments in the garden afterwards.

Question 7

Who is the point of contact for the event?

Accepted Answer

Declan Whooley is the Race Director. You can contact him on 086-1681740, or declanwhooley@gmail.com

Sheep's Head Challenge 2026

Good to know

Location

Ahakista Bar

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