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Hazards |
Weather
The whole path involves fairly low level running, with the highest point being Holyhead Mountain 720ft (220m) and it is possible to complete the entire route in bad weather. However the path is often exposed to the elements and you should be prepared for high winds and rain. A weather forecast will be provided each day during the race briefing. Think about your layering, a waterproof jacket is advisable in the case of wind, rain or cold weather. A pair of leggings or running tights underneath a pair of shorts will keep your legs warm. And a pair of gloves and a hat/buff are a good idea in cold weather. Ensure you have enough clothing and waterproofs to keep you warm and dry whatever the forecast, exposure can set in very quickly when you are stationary, get out of the wind and add an additional layer while resting.
For further information and/or a five-day weather forecast go to the Met Office website.
Night-time navigation
Most runners will find themselves completing the later sections of Day 1 and Day 2 in darkness. You should take extra care, the path can be uneven and it would be too easy to trip or slip on uneven ground or hidden tree roots.
Although the route is predominately trail, there are small sections of public road. These tend to be quiet country roads and are often poorly lit and cars may not easily see you. You should ensure you are easily visible to oncoming traffic. Run facing oncoming traffic and wear Hi-Visibility clothing. Use a good head torch and have spare batteries. Unless you're up to scratch with your night time navigation, bring a GPS device and learn how to pinpoint your location on your map. If you are unconfident travelling alone at night we recommend you team up with another runner and travel as a pair or group.
Fatigue, cold and hypothermia
Ring O' Fire will test you both mentally and physically. Many runners will be operating at their absolute limits and this will undoubtedly affect your decision making. It is vital that you take on sufficient fuel before and during the race. Recognising when you need to take in more food and water, when energy levels are dropping and you are in danger of pushing yourself too far is key - not only to improving performance, but preventing hypothermia.
Make sure you understand the gradual effects of cold and make allowances for wind chill. Warm, dry clothing is important in staving off cold and ultimately hypothermia. Pay particular attention to the extremities, especially your head, neck and hands.
It can take experience and a brave decision not to push on, especially when running in a group. Any combination of wet, wind and cold you need to be much more cautious. As a general rule, if conditions are such that you have to ask whether to go on, the answer is probably 'no'. Always try to keep something in reserve for contingency, dress appropriately and look for the symptoms of exposure and fatigue in others.
Cliff tops
The route follows the cliff tops quite closely in several locations and runners are reminded to stay on the path for their own safety. Take extra care when running on cliff tops, the path can be narrow and exposed in areas. Particular care is required on wet grass and mud which can be very slippy. Tail running shoes are recommended given their extra grip in wet and muddy conditions.
Livestock
When travelling through a field with cattle, pass steadily around the herd giving them a wide berth. When you run they tend to run too - best walk until clear of the cattle. If you happen to come across a cow with a calf then take extra care not to come between young calves and their mothers, and give them plenty of room.
Tides
Sections of the path may be restricted by the rise and fall of the tide. During period of Spring tides particular care is required. Do not attempt to ford rivers, estuaries or any open water. There is always an inland option of comparable distance and we will discuss this at the daily event briefing.
Please visit Admiralty Easy Tide for a tide table.
Mobile reception
Mobile reception can be patchy or nonexistent in some areas and you should bear in mind that it may not always be possible to call for help.
Medical
In the event of a medical emergency contact the emergency services on 999. If you're injured but able to walk please make your way to the nearest checkpoint. We can assist you from there. If you need assistance to get back to a checkpoint or anything else during the race then contact the Race Directors and we'll provide you with guidance on what to do. Please bear in mind some sections of the path are remote and it may not always be possible to reach you quickly. Please stop and offer assistance to your fellow runners if you find someone requiring help.
The Race Directors telephone numbers will be printed on your race numbers and also provided to you before the race starts.
What do people say about us?
"What would I change??? Absolutely nothing.... Not even women's categories, people make a fuss but I'm with you, should have run a harder!"
Past Ring O' Fire finisher