FAQ
How tough is the challenge?
The course has 5,300ft of elevation, plenty of rolling hills. It isn't possible to walk the 35 miles in the 12 hour limit for most people, but the 12 -hour limit is relatively generous
What is included in the entry price?
-
Coach travel to the start (if you choose that ticket option)
-
Tea/Coffee after the event
-
Snacks after the event
-
Finishers certificate downloadable from the Results
-
Staff and first aid medical support
-
Snacks and cold drinks at CPs
-
Participation in a fun as well as tough event!
-
Paramedic Medical Support
How good do my navigation skills need to be?
The Gristone Trail is very well waymarked but you still need to carry your own maps. We supply a GPX file for your devices. For the most part navigation is very straighforward
Kit list: what do I need to carry with me on the run?
Recommended:
-
Maps for whole route
-
a mobile phone and/or GPS device
-
waterproof jacket, and clothing suitable
-
space blanket, first aid kit & whistle
-
drinks bottle / mug / camelback
-
some food for the course to supplement checkpoint food.
-
any personal medication
Can I leave a bag at the start
You can leave a bag at Disley Community Centre and collect it when you finish.
Can I use a GPS?
Yes, you can use a GPS if you wish, the route is available on the Routes page of the website. You can also opt to hire a Racedrone GPS tracker to use on the event. The trackers are the kind used for D of E Trackers as well as Scout GPS Tracking, and general GPS Events Tracking.
Do I have to stick to the race route. What about short-cutting?
You must follow the race route. There are several virtual checkpoints on the course to stop short cutters, you little monkeys.
What is the start/cut off time?
At 7am the coach leaves from Disley. 8:30 start from Kidsgrove. 12 hour time limit, which means you must finish by 8:30pm.
What happens if I don’t finish in time?
The caretaker comes to close up at 8:30pm so don't be later. You must have fallen asleep on the course because 12 hours is plenty!
How will I find my results?
Results will be published online.
Are there showers?
No, only toilets at the HQ/finish. There are public toilets near the start, but we advise use the loo before you board the coach in case they are not open
Will I need to take my own food & drink?
The checkpoints will stock a variety cold drinks, some snacks; such as biscuits, sweets and crisps. However, it is recommended that you carry some of your own food that you would normally eat on a run. You should carry a water bottle and this can be refilled at the checkpoints.
How far apart are the checkpoints?
There are 3 checkpoints, they are roughly every 10 miles.
What is the terrain like?
95% trail, very little road. 53,00ft ascent and a little more descent. Y.
What happens if I can’t finish the race?
If you cannot finish the race, you should retire at a checkpoint. Under normal circumstances you will be taken back to the race HQ when we can arrange transport for you or when the CP closes. If you have to retire elsewhere and make your own way off the course you must use your phone to call the race organisers and notify them of your intentions. Failure to do this could result in rescue services being notified unnecessarily. Under pandemic circumstances we are not able to provide transport
Can I reccie the course in advance?
Of course. Run along it as many times as you like!
What about travel to the start /finish ?
You park near the finish, and we take you by coach to the start. You don’t have to use the coach, and can arrange to meet us and register at the start if you purchased the appropriate ticket. If you do that, you’ll need to arrange your own transport back home of course!
Do we get food at the end?
Nothing fancy, but you’ll get a little food to replenish the carb tanks. We’ll rustle up a hot drink for you too I’m sure.
Are places limited?
Yes. We are limited by coach seats. It always sells out, and it sells out fast.
What will the weather be like?
Cool, Cold, ok, possibly rain, who knows? Check the forecast before you come and dress wisely!
I have more questions?
Ask us on the Beyond Marathon Community Facebook Page
What Else?
We always try to awareness of Malignant Melanoma, which is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, caused primarily by sun damage. It is the most common form of cancer in people aged 15-34. Each year, approximately 2,000 people die in England and Wales due to melanoma and more than 10,400 people are diagnosed with it. You are not going to need any sunblock for this event, but please use it when you’re out running in the day time. Runners spend a lot of time outdoors, and don’t always slap on the sunblock. If you’re worried about a mole, please get it checked at your doctor as soon as you can, as malignant melanoma is very aggressive, and early diagnosis is vital.
If you’d like to help further, by running the event sponsored, then great, we’d love that! You can get a sponsorship form from us.