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Event Briefing for Hell & Back 7KM (05/09/2026)
- 3 days ago
- 16 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
The countdown's on for our annual autumn Hell & Back - and we can't wait to welcome you to Killruddery Estate this Saturday!
Get ready to take on 7KM and 80+ natural and man-made challenges across the forests, mountains, swamps, meadows and lakes of Co. Wicklow.
You'll climb, crawl, haul, jump and conquer your way through some of Hell & Back's most iconic challenges, including:
🧊 Ice Baths 🔥 Hell on Earth 💪 Valley of Pain
🎯 Sniper's Alley 🐒Monkey Bars ⚰️ Coffin Crawl
🟤 The Swamp 👹 Satan’s Pit 💦 Pontoon Mania
😱 Scream Fields ⚡ Electric Shocks
And when you think you've given everything you've got, there's one final challenge standing between you and the Finish Line...
🏆 THE HALFPIPE RAMP 🏆
Made famous by Ireland's Fittest Family - and your final obstacle before you can call yourself a Hell & Back finisher!
Are you ready to earn that Finisher's T-Shirt?! 🔥
Please read this Event Briefing in full - it’ll make your day run far more smoothly!
BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
To make the most of your day, please take a few minutes to read all the information in the Event Briefing (05/09/2026) below. Give yourself plenty of time to park, register, drop your car keys / phone at Secure Valuables and make your way to the Start Pen.
The site opens at 08:30 so please arrive at least 60 MINUTES before your allocated wave start.
As administration for the event is now closed, so unfortunately we can no longer facilitate wave changes. If you have a last-minute question, check out our Frequently Asked Questions - your answer is probably there!
PREP LIKE A PRO
Get a good night's sleep on Friday, fuel up with a solid breakfast and arrive ready to give it your all. Stay hydrated and dress appropriately for the conditions. Current forecasts suggest a cool and potentially dry day, with temperatures expected to range between 12°C and 16°C.
Hell & Back is your chance to test yourself. step outside your comfort zone and discover what you're capable of. Every obstacle conquered and every kilometre completed is an achievement to be proud of.
🔥IMPORTANT COURSE UPDATE 🔥
Following an extended period of exceptionally dry weather in Co. Wicklow, and very little rainfall over recent months, the conditions have had an impact on a small number of areas of this weekend’s Hell & Back course.
With water levels in the Lake exceptionally low, the Water Jump and Splashdown Slide cannot safely be used this weekend, while the prolonged dry conditions also mean our new Land Slide will be out of action.
The Lake is still part of the 7KM course though - and you’re still getting wet! We’ve adapted and extended Pontoon Mania to make sure there’s still action waiting for you at the Lake.
BUT THIS IS STILL HELL & BACK!🔥
The 7KM course is absolutely packed! We’ve adapted the route, added extra obstacles and introduced new immersive zones and experiences along the way - so there’s plenty waiting for you out there.
Mother Nature may have forced us to make a few tweaks, but the challenge, the craic and the Hell & Back experience isn't going anywhere.
You’re still in for one hell of a 7KM - and we can’t wait to see you on the Start Line this Saturday!
The Alive Outside Team
💡5 KEY REMINDERS 💡
✅ Arrive onsite at least 60 minutes before your start time
✅ Follow event signage for car parking instructions and pre-pay for your parking if possible
✅ Bring your QR code or original ticket
✅ Drop valuables in the Secure Valuables Drop (Basecamp) before your wave
✅ Warm showers are available in Shoreline Leisure Centre, a 5 min drive away
TABLE OF CONTENTS
YOUR HEALTH & SAFETY
This is Hell & Back - so brace yourself for a tough challenge. You should be able to complete a minimum 7KM route with obstacles in approx. 2.5 hours. Your health and safety is our top priority, so if you have any doubts about your fitness, especially on a warm day, this might not be the event for you.
The Order of Malta will be onsite for the day to treat any cuts or bruises that may occur. As well as a First Aid Centre in Basecamp, there will be a doctor, 4 ambulances and a team of 20+ Order of Malta staff onsite looking after all of us so make sure you get any injury treated immediately by one of the many trained First Aid staff.
Regarding hydration on the 7KM course, you'll find a water station just before halfway at the 3KM mark, while there will also be water at the Finish Line so, no matter the weather, ensure you're well-hydrated before you set off and keep yourself hydrated throughout the run.
For sustainability, please dispose of your water cup in the recycling bins provided - let’s leave the course as clean as we found it!
Also, please note that a bag of jellies will be given to all participants at the Finish Line to help replenish energy levels after the course. This is particularly worth noting if you have children taking part in Hell & Back Family or Teen.
Remember that Killruddery is a working farm and we don't want anyone picking up a nasty infection so:
if you notice any open cuts or wounds, get them treated by the Order of Malta ASAP;
use the sanitation station at the Finish Line;
go around the Electric Shocks if you’ve metal in your body;
wash your hands thoroughly before eating/drinking; and
wash yourself – and your clothes - thoroughly when you get home.
Warm showers are just a short drive away in Shoreline Leisure Centre on the Southern Cross Road (click for Google Maps link). It's the perfect spot to rinse off all that Killruddery mud, sweat and (happy!) tears after your H&B adventure!
💡Top Tip: Bring a plastic bag to sit on in your car on your way to Shoreline!
For more information about the potential risks from events located in farms, click here.
Post run, if you experience any of the symptoms detailed above for infectious diseases, contact your doctor immediately.
GETTING TO KILLRUDDERY / CAR PARKING
With 3,000+ cars arriving over the weekend, it's essential to plan your transportation wisely. To ensure a smooth and organised experience for all participants, we have devised a comprehensive car parking plan that will alternate between two car parks throughout the day:
IDA Business Park on Southern Cross Road; and
Grass Fields in Killruddery
Please follow the Visual Display Signs on your approach to Killruddery for your designated car park, have patience (it will be very busy!) and obey the instructions of our car parking attendants who will guide you to an available space.
In the spirit of eco-friendliness and maximising space, please carpool wherever possible. Sharing a ride not only reduces traffic congestion but also minimizes our carbon footprint.
Arrive at least 60 minutes before your allocated start time to allow time for parking, registration, wristband collection and to leave your car keys, mobile, wallet etc into the valuable drop, as well as familiarising yourself with all the facilities and services in the Event Village before you start on your hellish adventure.
PRE-PAY PARKING = €9 OR ON THE DAY = €10
If you haven't yet pre-purchased your car parking ticket, you can do so by clicking here and paying €9 per car. Alternatively, you can also pay €10 at the gate - cash is quicker and more efficient on the day so please stop off at an ATM for your tenner in advance.
💡Top Tip: Arrive at least 60 MINS before your allocated start time!
Deadline for online prepayment is Thurs 3rd Sept @ 23:59 PM so sign up now!
WHAT TO WEAR, INCLUDING FOOTWEAR
Visit our FAQs to read our suggestions on what to wear...and, just as importantly, what NOT to wear!
FOOTWEAR IS VERY IMPORTANT! Trail runners are the best for grip in muddy conditions, while astro boots also work well. We strongly advise you not to wear runners, as the reduced grip may increase your risk of injury. Studs, cleats, blades and spikes are not permitted.
And make sure you triple knot your laces so your footwear doesn't get stuck in the mud!
WEATHER FORECAST
With a few days to go, the forecast for Saturday is still subject to change. It looks like it will be a cool and potentially dry day, with temperatures expected to range between 12°C and 16°C. Keep an eye on Met Eireann for weather updates and dress accordingly.
START TIME CHECKER
Check your start time (or that of a friend) by clicking here and entering either the email address you registered with (recommended) or your surname...once you are listed on this page, we will find your details at the Registration Tent so don't panic, we will get you registered!
GETTING REGISTERED & READY TO GO
Collect and sign for your Wristband at the Registration Tent (located at the site entrance) at least 30 minutes before your wave start time.
Please note: parking may be a 10-15 minute walk from registration, so we strongly recommend arriving at least 60 minutes before your start time to allow plenty of time to check in and get ready.
Late arrivals may be removed from the event without a refund. Click here to check your start time.
Our registration process is fully digital, so all participants must pass through the Registration Tent. Simply queue and go to the next available marshal.
To speed up registration, please bring:
your original ticket, or
your QR code from entering your email address on the Start Time Checker.
💡Top Tip: To get your QR code, enter the email address originally used to sign up -
this may be a work or partner’s email address.
And don't worry, we should still be able to find your registration if you have none of the above, provided your booking is showing on the Start Time Checker!
Your Wristband must be fastened securely to your wrist immediately. It shows your Participant Number and Wave Colour and is required to:
Enter the Start Area
Take part in the event
Collect your finisher's tshirt
💡Top Tip: No Wristband = No Run & No T-Shirt!
We provide a Secure Valuables Drop for your car keys, mobile phone, wallet, etc. Allow yourself enough time to drop them off and pick them up afterwards.
💡Top Tip: If your child is under 16 and participating in Hell & Back Family or Teen, a parent or guardian must accompany them onsite and sign them in at Registration before they can take part.
E-CONSENT FORM
You must sign an electronic consent form when you arrive onsite. For speed and efficiency, make sure you are aware of these Terms & Conditions of Participation (link below) in advance of arriving.
No-one will be able to take part without agreeing to these T&Cs.
FAST TRACK FOR LARGE GROUPS
We offer a Fast Track option for teams of 5 or more and we’ve already contacted the Team Leaders to arrange this. If you’re part of a group of 5 or more participants and haven’t been in touch with us about Fast Track, email registrations@aliveoutside.ie ASAP and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
REPLACEMENTS / TRANSFERS
While it is too late to apply for a transfer, if you cannot take part this Saturday, you can still get someone to replace you. They just need to collect your Wristband at the Registration Tent but then sign & print their own name. Our marshals will be able to help you out if you have any issues on the day.
SECURE VALUABLE DROP
In Basecamp, you'll find the Secure Valuables Drop for small items, including car keys, wallets, phones etc. Please note:
All items must fit into a small freezer-sized zip bag.
You'll be given a numbered wristband when you drop off your valuables.
You must present this wristband to collect your items.
No wristband = no valuables!
While we don't have official storage for larger items such as kit bags or spare clothing, you're welcome to leave them in a corner of Basecamp. Please note this area is unmanned, so we strongly recommend placing all valuables in the Secure Valuables Drop before heading out on the course.
💡Top Tips:
The Secure Valuables Drop can get very busy during peak times, so we recommend arriving early to avoid delays before your wave starts.
If you are taking part with a friend, consider sharing one valuable bag for quicker dropoff and collection.
PROTECTIVE GLOVES
A limited number of Hell & Back branded protective gloves will be available to purchase from the Shop/Tipi on Saturday for €10 per pair. Gloves are available in XL only and stock is limited, so if you'd like a pair, we recommend arriving early to avoid disappointment.
HYPE CREW AT START LINE
We're delighted to welcome back the brilliant Liam, Gavin and Oisin to our Hype Crew & Warm-Up Team this Saturday.
Joining them for the first time is local Personal Trainer Ashley and together they'll have you fired up and ready to take on the course with a short, high-energy warm-up in the Start Pen.
Keeping the atmosphere buzzing throughout the day, Colin and Louis will be on the decks with the soundtrack to your Hell & Back adventure.
Saturday’s warm ups are set to be bigger, louder and more hyped than ever before – so don’t miss out! You'll be called into the Start Pen approx. 20 minutes before your allocated wave time, so make sure you're ready to move...let the countdown begin!
STUNNING VIEWS - AND PLENTY MORE ON THE COURSE!
Whatever pace you take it at on Saturday, you'll experience some of the most spectacular scenery of any adventure event in Ireland, with incredible views across Dublin Bay, the Wicklow countryside and the beautiful grounds of Killruddery House & Gardens.
Making its return to the September Hell & Back course for the first time in four years is The Swamp - a favourite from Ireland's Fittest Family! Drag your way through the sludge, battle through the muck - and don't be afraid to ask for a helping hand if you get stuck!
You'll also encounter the Irish Defence Forces along the route, waiting to put you through your paces in two immersive Combat Zones! Expect military-style challenges, drill sergeant commands and plenty of encouragement to MOVE, MOVE, MOVE! Welcome to Hell & Back boot camp - you've been warned!
Then, new for 2026, there's Scream Fields - a whole zone designed to test your balance, grip, agility and determination. Located close to the Finish Line, you'll face rotating pipes, traverse walls, underground crawls and a series of fresh challenges designed to keep you working right to the end.
By then, the Finish Line is almost in sight! Expect plenty of encouragement from spectators as you battle through Scream Fields, before one final push through The Eliminator and up the legendary Halfpipe Ramp from Ireland's Fittest Family.
Then it's across the Finish Line - you've conquered Hell & Back! 🔥
💡Top Tips:
If you’re not comfortable with The Swamp, Scream Fields or any other obstacle, you’re free to walk around them.
Non-swimmers can easily skip Pontoon Mania at the Lake, while anyone who chooses to it on must wear a buoyancy aid for safety.
WORK TOGETHER
While you can set your own pace out on the course, Hell & Back is much more fun when you work together and help others to get over all the obstacles. There are no prizes for finishing fast so remember that it's not a race, it's a challenge!
And whatever speed you run at, you'll be met with a friendly smile and lots of encouragement from our team of marshals!
SPECTATORS & SUPPORTERS
Please be aware that Hell & Back is not a very spectator-friendly event, especially for young children/babies in buggies or anyone with restricted mobility, due to the uneven terrain across the farm fields.
If you are bringing supporters, remind them that Killruddery is a working farm and they should dress appropriately for the conditions. We recommend wellies and waterproofs on Saturday to be on the safe side!
Our suggestion? Cheer you on at the Start Line, grab a coffee and a bite to eat, then follow the Spectator Route (see map below) to catch you again towards the end of the course.
Depending on your pace, supporters should be prepared for a wait of approximately 1.5-3 hours between seeing you at the Start and towards the Finish.
For Health & Safety reasons, much of the course is not accessible to spectators, but our designated Spectator Route provides access to a small section towards the end.
💡Top Tip: Follow the pink Spectator Route signs! 🩷🩷🩷
PONTOON MANIA 💦
As mentioned above, you'll still getting wet at the Lake with Pontoon Mania!
From a water safety perspective, everyone taking part must wear a buoyancy aid, which will be fitted before entering the Lake area. Our team of qualified lifeguards will be on duty throughout, patrolling both from kayaks on the water and from the bank.
If you - or your child taking part in Hell & Back Family or Teen - are not a confident swimmer or are uncomfortable in water, please skip this obstacle. Simply let a lifeguard know when you reach the Lake and they will direct you around it.
Parents/guardians: if your child is taking part in Hell & Back Family or Teen, please discuss this with them before Saturday and reassure them that they do not have to take part in Pontoon Mania if they are not comfortable doing so.
CLOSING TIMES
Most participants take approximately 2.5 hours to complete the 7KM course, so there should be plenty of time to enjoy the full course before it closes at 17:00.
Please be aware that there are course cut-off times at certain points along the route. If you reach one of these points after the specified cut-off time, our team will redirect you towards the Finish Line via a shorter route.
For Health & Safety reasons, all participants must be off the course by 17:00. Anyone still on the course at that time will be assisted to the Finish Line by buggy.
The site will close at 17:30, so please make sure you take all belongings with you when leaving.
EXCLUSIVE HELL & BACK FINISHER'S TSHIRT
After you finish, make sure you collect your exclusive Hell & Back Finisher's Tshirt that you can wear with pride forevermore!
EVENT VILLAGE FACILITIES & SERVICES
Once you've registered, you’ll walk through Hell’s Kitchen, where you can grab a coffee or a snack.
Need somewhere safe to store your car keys, phone or wallet? Visit the Secure Valuables Drop in Basecamp, where you'll also find basic Male & Female Changing Facilities and the First Aid Centre.
For children taking part in Hell & Back Teen or Family, separate Boys & Girls Changing Facilities are also available. Please note that these facilities are unsupervised and for children only. Adults should not use these areas to change. Parents/Guardians may enter only where necessary to assist their own child and should respect the privacy of other children using the facilities at all times.
💡Top Tip: Killruddery is a working farm so don't expect luxury!
Once you conquer the course, you’ll be able to rehydrate with Solanti, an Irish hydration brand specialising in electrolyte hydration. Their team will be sampling their electrolyte sachets at the Finish Line for Adult participants only to help support hydration and recovery. (Please note: Solanti samples are for adults only and will not be distributed to children aged 17 or younger.)
You’ll also collect your exclusive "I Made It Thru' Hell & Back" T-Shirt at the Finish Line. Make sure your Wristband is securely fastened before you start, as you’ll need to show it to collect your T-Shirt at the end.
Remember that there are no showers onsite on Saturday. However, warm showers are available only a short drive away in Shoreline Leisure Centre on the Southern Cross Road (click for Google Maps link).
WARM SHOWERS IN SHORELINE LEISURE
If you’re in need of a warm shower after your Hell & Back adventure, head to Shoreline Leisure Centre on the Southern Cross Road - just a short drive from Killruddery and the IDA Business Park. Male and female dressing rooms with showers are available, so you can clean off the mud and warm up before heading home.
💡Top Tips:
It's best to pack up your car and drive to Shoreline, as it’s a bit too far to walk post-event.
Bring a plastic bag to sit on in your car on the way!
HELL'S KITCHEN FOOD VILLAGE - FUEL UP & FEAST!
We have a fantastic lineup of food vendors who will be serving up hearty, mouth-watering grub to help you recharge and celebrate your achievement after you finish. Whether you’re craving something hot, sweet, savoury or downright indulgent, there’s something for every HellRaiser:
🥞 Mandy & Team (Crepe Box, Gyro Box)
🍔 Mark & Team (Chicken & Chips, Burgers & Chips, Ice Cream, Coffee, Donuts & Toasties)
🍕 Robert & Team (Bob’s Pizza, Dipped Strawberries)
SAMPLING PARTNER - SOLANTI
Adult participants, this one is for you! Once you’ve survived Hell & Back, it’s time to get some hydration back into you - so make sure you check out Solanti, an Irish hydration brand specialising in electrolyte hydration.
Their sachets are packed with sodium, potassium and magnesium, along with coconut water extract and essential vitamins, designed to support hydration, performance and recovery.
They’re low in sugar, contain no artificial colours or flavours and come in two flavours - Lemon & Elderflower and Ginger & Clementine.
And the best bit? The Solanti team will be sampling at the Finish Line for adult participants. So once you cross that Finish Line, grab a Solanti and get rehydrating!
Want to stock up? Get an exclusive 25% off the Solanti online shop using code HELL25 - and anyone who uses the code will also receive a FREE Solanti cap worth €20 with the purchase. Click here to visit the Solanti online shop now!
*** NEW *** FIND YOUR PHOTOS FASTER 📸
For the first time, we’re introducing an optional selfie photo-search to help you quickly find photos of yourself captured by our Official Photographers around the course. Simply follow the link we’ll send you after the event, upload a selfie and the system will search through the thousands of event photos for images that may feature you.
The selfie search is completely optional. You can still browse through all of the event photos manually, exactly as before - this new option is simply there to make finding yourself quicker and easier.
For participants under 18, the selfie search can only be used with the consent of a parent or legal guardian.
Found some crackers? Choose the photos you want and have them emailed directly to you completely FREE! 📸🔥
And when you share them, don’t forget to tag us @hellandbackrun - we want to see them!
INSURANCE COVER
All participants have paid for Personal Accident Cover, which may include benefits in the event of you incurring an injury on the course. Visit the "Insurance" section of our FAQs for more info.
WICKLOW TOURISM
If you'd like to overnight beforehand or afterwards, or want to explore Wicklow, then check out the Wicklow Tourism website for more details about the county known as the best of outdoor adventure! Click here for Wicklow Tourism.
HELL & BACK FAQS
As administration for the event is now closed, we can no longer facilitate wave changes. If you have any late queries, please check our Frequently Asked Questions as your answer is more than likely there.
