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Event Briefing for Hell & Back 13/8KM (06/06/2026)
- Jun 3
- 15 min read
The countdown's on for the biggest Hell & Back of 2026 - and we can't wait to welcome you to Killruddery Estate this Saturday!
Whether you're taking on the 13KM challenge or powering your way through the 8KM course, get ready to push yourself further than ever before across the stunning landscape of Co Wicklow.
You’ll climb, crawl, haul, jump and conquer your way through 100+ natural and man-made challenges spread across forests, mountains, swamps, meadows and lakes. Along the way, you'll take on some of Hell & Back's most iconic challenges, including:
Ice Baths
Splash Zone
Valley of Pain
Sniper's Alley
Satan’s Pit
Electric Shocks
Monkey Bars
Scream Fields (NEW)
And when you think you've given everything you've got, one final challenge awaits...
The legendary Halfpipe Ramp, made famous by Ireland's Fittest Family, standing between you and the finish line.
Are you ready to earn your 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 (06/06/2026) below. Give yourself plenty of time to park, sign in and drop your car keys / phone into the Secure Valuables store. The site opens at 07:50. Please arrive at least 60 MINUTES before your allocated wave start time to allow plenty of time for parking, registration, valuables drop and getting to the Start Pen.
As administration for the event is now closed, we can no longer facilitate wave changes but if you've got a last-minute questions, check out our Frequently Asked Questions as your answer is probably in 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 wet day, with temperatures expected to range between 12°C and 14°C.
Hell & Back is your chance to test yourself. step outside your comfort zone and discover what you're truly capable of. Whether you're taking on the 13KM or the 8KM, every obstacle conquered and every kilometre completed is an achievement to be proud of.
We'll see you at the Start Line on Saturday - and we'll also be waiting to cheer you across the Finish Line too!
The Alive Outside Team
💡5 KEY REMINDERS 💡
✅ Arrive onsite at least 60 minutes before your start time
✅ Follow event signage for car parking instructions
✅ Pre-pay for your parking if possible (€9 online / €10 on the day)
✅ Bring your QR code or original ticket
✅ Drop valuables in the Secure Valuables Drop (Lambing Shed) before your wave
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 8KM 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 the Lambing Shed beside the showers, there will be a doctor, 7 ambulances and a team of 40 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 13KM course, you'll find water stations at the 5KM and 9.5KM marks, while the 8KM course has one just before the 5KM. 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!
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 also available in the Lambing Shed so use them when you finish to wash the first layer of muck off - you'll need to wash off layers 2, 3 and 4 when you get home!
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 throughout the day, 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.
NB: ARRIVE AT LEAST 60 MINS BEFORE YOUR ALLOCATED START TIME
Deadline for online prepayment is Thurs 4th June @ 23:59 PM so sign up now!
SHUTTLE BUS PLAN
In line with our sustainability goals, a Shuttle Bus service will run from Bray DART Station to the IDA Car Park on Southern Cross Road, a 10-15 minute walk from the Registration Tent. Tickets were prepaid with your registation, but a limited number of seats are available on the day @ €10 return per person.
WHAT TO WEAR, INCLUDING FOOTWEAR
Click here 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 mixed bag with patches of sunshine and showers and temperatures on the cooler side for this time of year, hovering between 11 and 14 degrees. 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.
IMPORTANT: 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
IMPORTANT: 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.
IMPORTANT: 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 the Lambing Shed, 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!
We do not provide storage for larger items such as kit bags or spare clothing but you are welcome to leave in them in the unmanned dressing rooms at your own risk. 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 Kellyann to our Hype Crew & Warm-Up Team this Saturday.
Joining them is our own Oisin 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!
SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETERS
On Saturday, we will once again have Irish Sign Language (ISL) Interpreters as part of our Hype Crew at the Start Line, continuing our objective towards greater inclusivity and accessibility at Hell & Back.
From 12:40 until the last wave at 15:50 (waves 10-19), we will have two trained Irish Sign Language Interpreters (Jason & Shannon) working as part of our Hype Crew at the Start Line to ensure effective communication for participants who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
STUNNING VIEWS - AND BRAND NEW OBSTACLES!
Whether you're taking on the 13KM or the 8KM this Saturday, you'll experience some of the most spectacular scenery of any adventure event in Ireland, with stunning views across Dublin Bay, the Wicklow countryside and the beautiful grounds of Killruddery Estate.
Plus, new for 2026, we're introducing Scream Fields - a brand-new obstacle zone designed to test your balance, grip, agility and determination. Located close to the finish, this exciting new section features rotating pipes, traverse walls, underground crawls and a series of fresh challenges that will push you right to the end.
And with the Finish Line drawing ever closer, expect plenty of encouragement from spectators as you take on Scream Fields before one final push through the Eliminator and up the legendary Half Pipe Ramp from Ireland's Fittest Family before crossing the Finish Line.
💡Top Tips:
If you’re not comfortable with Scream Fields (or any other obstacle), you’re free to walk around them. This includes all water-based challenges at Splash Zone.
Non-swimmers can easily skip these sections, while anyone who chooses to take them 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
We've introduced more spectator access than ever before, allowing family and friends to experience sections of the course and cheer participants towards the finish
Please note though that Hell & Back is not a very spectator-friendly event, particularly for young children/babies in buggies and those with restricted mobility, due to the uneven terrain typical of farm fields.
That said, if you do bring supporters, remind them that Killruddery is a working farm and they should dress appropriately for all weather conditions. We recommend wellies and waterproofs on Saturday to be on the safe side!
We suggest your supporters cheer you on at the start, grab a coffee and a bite to eat and then follow the Spectator Route (see map below) to meet you near the end of the course. Keep in mind that, depending on your speed, they may need to wait 2-3 hours to see you between the start and finish.
While much of course is not accessible to supporters for Health & Safety reasons, we have introduced a new Spectator Route, which provides access to a small section of the course. Simply follow the Spectator Route signs.
Additionally, please note that the Lake, home to Splash Zone, is located in the heart of Killruddery, approximately a 10 minute walk from the Event Village. Spectators who visit this area will need to move quickly afterwards if they want to catch you crossing the Finish Line!
SWIMMING & SPLASH ZONE
One of our most popular obstacles is Splash Zone on the Lake in the centre of Killruddery, which consists of the Water Jump, Pontoon Mania and Splashdown Slide.
From a water safety perspective, everyone is fitted with a buoyancy aid when they get in the vicinity of the Lake, while our team of lifeguards patrol both from in the water on kayaks and from the bank.
If you - or your child for H&B Family or H&B Teen - are not a confident swimmer or dislike water, you should not attempt this zone. Simply inform a lifeguard at the Lake, who will guide you around it. (If you have children doing H&B Family or H&B Teen, please discuss this with your child before Saturday, reassuring them that they do not need to participate in this part.)
CLOSING TIMES
We expect the average person to take approx. 2.5 hours to complete the 8KM course so everyone will have plenty of time to complete the course before the 18:30 closing time.
Please note that, if you don't make it to certain points by a specified time, you will be redirected towards the Finish Line via a shortcut. For Health & Safety reasons, anyone not finished by 18:30 will be assisted to the Finish Line by buggy.
The site will then close at 19:00 with the last DART Shuttle Bus also leaving the Southern Cross IDA Car Park at 19:30 so please make sure you bring all belongings with you when you leave.
EXCLUSIVE H&B 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? Head through the woodland trail to the Lambing Shed, where you'd find our Secure Valuables Drop, along with the Changing Rooms, First Aid Centre and warm showers to help you freshen up after your challenge.
Be sure to also visit our Exhibition Village and meet some of our event partners, including MindBridge Medical, Yoplait Skyr, WellNest by Debbie and the Defence Forces Recruitment Team.
If you conquer the course, as well as a packet of Nutriluv jellies from Rose Confectionery, you'll also collect your exclusive "I Made It Thru' HELL & BACK" t-shirt at the Finish Line. Ensure your Wristband is securely fastened before you start, as you'll need to show it to get your t-shirt at the end.
WARM SHOWERS
As mentioned above, warm showers are available in the Lambing Shed, located beside the changing rooms.
Please note: shampoos, gels and soaps are not permitted due to the presence of farm animals nearby. Therefore use the warm water to rinse off that first layer of muck – but be warned, layers 2, 3 and 4 will have to wait until you get home!
As the shower facilities are communal and shared by thousands of participants of all ages throughout the day, nudity is not permitted. We ask everyone to be respectful of others and use appropriate discretion when changing or showering.
💡Top Tip: Killruddery is a working farm so don't expect luxury!
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 (Loaded Fries + Burgers, Ice Cream, Coffee + Donuts, Toasties, Chicken)
🌭 Dan & Team (Traditional Ice Cream, Traditional Hot Dogs)
🍕 Robert & Team (Bob’s Pizza, Dipped)
🥔 Marcus & Team (Hot Potato)
MINDBRIDGE MEDICAL - GOLD EVENT PARTNER
We’re delighted to welcome MindBridge Medical as a Gold Event Partner on Saturday. Drop by their activation area to meet Dr Raaj and the team, take on the “Beat the Beep” reaction challenge and try their FREE 60-Second ADHD Pre-Screening, with instant results, discount codes and giveaways available throughout the day.
MindBridge Medical are also sponsoring the Ice Baths and Registration Zone, while collaborating with Tranquil Nest in the VIP Tent for guided meditation and wellness sessions across the event.
For more information, visit their website.
YOPLAIT SKYR
Yoplait SKYR are also onsite on Saturday and, if you haven’t tried it before, SKYR is a creamy Icelandic-style yoghurt that’s rich in protein and 0% fat.
Made with skimmed milk, skimmed milk powder and lactic ferments, it’s the perfect grab-and-go snack before or after taking on the course.
The Yoplait team are handing out samples throughout the day, so make sure to swing by and give it a try!
ROSE CONFECTIONERY
Waiting for participants as they cross the Finish Line on Saturday will be the brand-new Nutriluv jellies from Rose Confectionery, the perfect reward after battling your way across the course.
Containing:
💥 97% less sugar
💥 Added vitamins
💥 56% fewer calories
Nutriluv is a proper energy boost after making it thru’ Hell & Back. Make sure to grab a sample at the Finish Line and check out @rose_confectionery_ireland on Instagram.
WELL-NEST BY DEBBIE
We’d also like to welcome Well-Nest By Debbie to the Event Village. Interflora has flowers - now gifting has Well-Nest!
Well-Nest was created from a simple belief: everyone deserves to feel held, supported and understood through every chapter of life.
Drop by their stand in the Event Village to check out their beautiful care hampers and visit welllnestbydebbie.com for more information.
IRISH DEFENCE FORCES
We're excited to, once again, welcome members of the Irish Defence Forces onsite on Saturday where they'll have a recruitment stand for anyone interested in exploring a career with them.
Whether you're curious or seriously considering signing up - this is your chance to learn more about what life in the Defence Forces is really like!
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 our 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.
H&B 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.
