F.A.Q.

We will strive to answer all questions emailed through our contact page. The information will then be generally available on this page. We hope this proves useful.

Are showers available?

Post race showers are available at The Brae, home of Groomsport FC. It will also be the temporary home for many of your vehicles.

Where can I park?

If entering the village from the Bangor direction, you will be directed towards parking facilities at Groomsport FC. This is where post race showers will be available, so it makes perfect sense to park here. If coming from the Donaghadee side, you will be directed into a public car park facing The Stables bar and restaurant. Please respect disabled parking spaces in this car park. Parking in The Stables car park is strictly prohibited. On-street parking is also available at this end of the village.

We intend to keep the centre of the village free of parking. This will make for a safer race. Cars parked illegally risk being ticketed, clamped or towed.

What happens at the aid stations?

On the bike course, we will have bottles prefilled with either water or Powerbar. This will be handed to you as you go VERY SLOWLY through the station. Please dispose of your empty bottles only at the aid station so they can be safely tidied away.

The stations on the run will have water, Powerbar and Coke available in plastic cups. A variety of sweets and snacks will also be available. We will have rubbish bins located after each station - please use them.

When is registration?

Registration takes place on Saturday 21st August from 2:00pm to 8:00pm. It will be in The Boathouse at Groomsport harbour car park.

What time does the race start?

The 226 Challenge will start at about 6:30am. As soon as all competitors are happy to start and the visibility is good, we'll get them away. The Half Ireman will start at noon.

Will the water be wet? (Paddy, Dublin)

The water will most certainly be wet. This has proved to be a common occurance in many recent triathlons. It may also be quite cool. Therefore wetsuits are mandatory.

Can I use my tricycle? (Mick, Belfast)

Any device which conforms to ITU rules and the TI Manual of Guidance will be acceptable. It must meet criteria regarding human propulsion and has to be generally roadworthy. A certified helmet would still be required. But as the bike route is actually quite flat and fast we would recommend a bicycle. Apparently Cervelo do some quite nice ones.