IMRA Gougane Barra 9.7K

🌄 2025 Gougane Barra Trail Run – Cork 🏞️

Join us for an exciting and challenging trail run through the stunning Gougane Barra Forest in County Cork. This race offers a 9.7 km route with 475 meters of climb, taking you across difficult terrain with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. A true test of your endurance and navigation skills!

📅 Date: Sunday, 27th April 2025
⏰ Time: 11:00
📍 Location: Gougane Barra, Ballingeary, Co. Cork

🎽 Event Overview:

Distance: 9.7 km with 475 meters of ascent

Difficulty: Difficult terrain, >500m ascent, >10 km

Race Marking: Only major junctions marked

GPS Allowed: Yes

💸 Entry Details:

Entries usually open a couple of weeks before the event.

This race is part of the Munster Sunday League.

🎽 Mandatory Kit:

Level B - Standard Kit:

Waterproof jacket

Hat or buff

Gloves

Whistle

Charged mobile phone with emergency number stored

Foil blanket, bivvy bag, or equivalent

The kit requirements may be finalized on race day depending on conditions.

Failure to carry the required kit will result in disqualification.

🚗 Getting There:

Location: Gougane Barra Forest Park

Directions:

Gougane Barra is located approximately 7 km southwest of Ballingeary.

Take the R584 for Ballingeary, then turn off at the signpost after about 5.5 km.

Drive past the hotel/cafe/pub and continue to the Forest Park, about 1 km further along the road.

Car Parking:

There is NO PARKING at the hotel/cafe/pub.

Please park in the forestry car park through the barrier (€5.00 entry fee).

Carpooling is encouraged from Ballingeary or Kealkill to ease congestion, as the area is a single-lane cul-de-sac that can get busy on weekends.

For more information: Gougane Barra Forest Park

🎽 Route Description:

The race begins at the barrier near Gougane Barra and proceeds towards the church for about 500 meters.

Turn right to follow the ‘Slí Ghaeltacht Mhuscraí’ trail for approx. 3 km, ascending steeply to Loch Fada.

At the stile, turn right to cross open mountain terrain, heading towards Loch Glas, and follow the fence line down to cross several stiles.

Continue down and traverse the boggy, broken, and slippy ground, taking care where necessary.

Cross three streams before joining the ‘Slí Sléibhe’ trail and descending to the forest road.

The final stretch takes you through a field and across a stream to the finish line near the barrier.

🎁 Prizegiving Location:

Prizegiving will be held at the Gougane Barra Forest Park once all runners have completed the race.

Prepare for a challenging yet rewarding race through one of the most picturesque areas of County Cork! 🌿