.png)
Event Briefing for HELL & BACK Winter Warrior on Sat 1st Mar
- aidanwalsh60
- Feb 25
- 16 min read
Updated: Feb 26
Winter Warriors, your time has come!
You've secured your place and now there's no turning back - HELL & BACK Winter Warrior 2025 is just around the corner! Get ready to take on the ultimate winter showdown in the wild, wet and windy conditions of Co. Wicklow.
This isn't just any obstacle course - it's a brutal energy-sapping challenge designed to push you to your limits. Whether you're tackling the 7KM loop once, braving two laps (14KM) or going all out for the full 21KM half marathon, every step will test your endurance, strength and sheer determination. Expect to face legendary obstacles like Heartbreak Ridge, Valley of Pain and Satan’s Pit all while battling the elements head-on.
With our brand-new Start & Finish Lines at Giltspur, the adrenaline will be pumping from the get-go. And trust us, the Wicklow winter weather is going to add its own special challenge...believe us when we say, it's VERY mucky out there! But no matter how tough it gets, crossing that finish line will be worth it - not just for the exclusive H&B Winter Warrior T-shirt but for the pure satisfaction of conquering this beast of a 7KM course.
After conquering the mud, swamps and icy winds, warm up with a well-earned, complimentary cup of hot soup at the Finish Line. Then, if you’re still craving more, continue into Hell’s Kitchen Food Village to treat yourself to some well-deserved snacks and tasty bites available to purchase..
Make sure to read this Winter Warrior Event Briefing in full - trust us, it’ll make your day a whole lot smoother. Give yourself plenty of time to get parked, sign in and register, and drop your car keys or mobile into the Secure Valuables Drop. The site opens at 07:30, so plan to arrive at the Registration Tent at least 45-60 minutes before your allocated start time to avoid any last-minute panic.
As administration for the event is now closed, we are unable to facilitate any wave changes. If you have any last-minute queries, check our Frequently Asked Questions - the answer is probably there!
It’s going to be a long, energy-draining day, so get a solid night’s sleep and fuel up with a hearty breakfast before you head for Killruddery. You’ll need all the strength you can get to battle the elements, smash the obstacles and conquer the course.
Other than that, just be ready for pain, suffering and a whole lot of fun! You’ve signed up for this madness, so embrace the chaos, channel your inner warrior and get set for an epic showdown against the elements.
See you all on Saturday!
The Alive Outside Team
CONTENTS
YOUR HEALTH & SAFETY
This is HELL & BACK - so brace yourself for a tough challenge. At a minimum, you should be able to complete a 7KM lap of the course with obstacles in less than 2 hours. Your health and safety is our top priority, so if you have any doubts about your fitness, especially on a potentially cold and wet day, this might not be the event for you.
The Order of Malta will be onsite all day to handle any cuts, bruises or injuries that might happen along the way. In addition to a dedicated support crew at the Finish Line in Giltspur, the main First Aid Centre will be located in Basecamp, staffed by a doctor, four ambulances and a team of 20 trained Order of Malta personnel. If you pick up any knocks or injuries, don’t tough it out - get checked and treated immediately by one of the many experienced First Aid staff who are there to look after you.
To keep you hydrated, water stations will be available at the 3.5KM and 7KM (end of lap) marks, as well as at the Finish Line. No matter the weather, make sure you’re well-hydrated before you set off and continue to top up as you tackle the course.
For sustainability, please dispose of your plastic water bottle 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 a sanitation station at the Finish Line;
wash your hands thoroughly before eating/drinking; and
wash yourself – and your clothes - thoroughly when you get home.
Hot showers are also available in Shoreline Leisure Centre on the Southern Cross Road (a short drive away) so feel free to 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.
LIMITED LAST MINUTE 7KM TICKETS AVAILABLE
Although online registration is now closed, a few tickets for the 7KM are still available for those last-minute stragglers wanting to join us on Saturday. Simple ask for Michael at the Registration Tent and he'll assist you with getting registered - email Michael now if you have any queries about on-the-day registrations.
To make the process quicker and more efficient, especially with such a large crowd, we recommend bringing cash so, if you are looking to register on the day, be sure to stop at you local ATM on the way!
€70 pp = Adult 7KM (Waves 2-6 from 10:15-12:40)
NEW START/FINISH/EVENT VILLAGE LOCATION = GILTSPUR!
We're thrilled to be using for the first time at an adult event Giltspur, a brand new area in the heart of Killruddery Estate where the Event Village (for food, drink, first aid, toilets etc) and the Start / Finish Lines will be located.
WARNING: THIS IS NOT A SPECTATOR-FRIENDLY EVENT!
Because of this new location, which is better suited to the weather conditions at this time of year, please be aware that this event involves significant walking. As shown on the map below, the Car Parks are located a considerable distance from the Start/Finish Line and you will need to:
Walk at least 10-15 minutes from the Car Park to Registration.
Walk an additional 5-10 minutes uphill to the Start Line in Giltspur.
After finishing, it will take 15-25 minutes to walk back to your car.
Considering the time of year, weather and potential underfoot conditions, this long uphill walk along uneven farm paths is not suitable for child buggies, strollers or for those who are uncomfortable walking long distances. Please take this into account when planning for Saturday.
Plus, due to very heavy rain last weekend, the entire site is very wet so if you are bringing supporters, we recommend waterproofs and wellies!
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.
Arrive and park at least 45-60 minutes before your allocated start time to give yourselves plenty of time to get parked, sign in, collect your wristband and leave your keys, phone and wallet into the Secure Valuable Drop.
GETTING TO KILLRUDDERY / CAR PARKING
With 850+ 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, consisting of two car parks throughout the day:
Killruddery Car Park - For Wave 1 participants (opens at 07:00)
Southern Cross Road IDA Car Park - For Wave 2 to 6 participants
We may need to alternate parking locations throughout the day. Please follow the instructions on large Digital Signs on Southern Cross Road to ensure you enter the correct 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 45-60 minutes before your start time to allow time for parking, registration, wristband collection and to leave your car keys, mobile, wallet etc into the valuable drop.
CAR PARK WALKING GUIDELINES
Killruddery Car Park (Wave 1)
Follow instructions on Digital Signs upon approach.
Allow 10-15 minute walk to Registration.
Allow 5-10 minute walk from Registration to Start Line in Giltspur.
Allove 15-25 minute walk from Finish Line to Car Park.
Expect 10-15 minutes to exit at peak times.
Southern Cross IDA Car Park (Waves 2-6)
Follow instructions on Digital Signs upon approach.
Allow 10-15 minute walk to Registration.
Allow 5-10 minute walk from Registration to Start Line in Giltspur.
Allove 15-25 minute walk from Finish Line to Car Park.
Entry and exit will be quicker than Killruddery due to direct access onto a roundabout.
IMPORTANT: AIM TO ARRIVE AT LEAST 45-60 MINS BEFORE YOUR ALLOCATED START TIME!
NO SWIMMING - JUST PURE WINTER MADNESS!
For health and safety reasons, and thanks to the wild, wet and wintry Wicklow weather, this event does not include any swimming or water obstacles. But don’t think for a second that means you’ll stay dry!
Instead, get ready to crawl, climb and scramble through an onslaught of brutally brilliant obstacles designed to push you to your limits. Expect deep mud, slippery slopes, ice-cold winds and relentless terrain - because who needs a dip in a lake when Mother Nature is throwing everything she’s got at you?!
WEATHER FORECAST
With a few days to go, the forecast for Saturday is still subject to change, but one thing’s for sure - it won’t be warm! Current predictions suggest cloudy conditions, with temperatures hovering between 7 and 10 degrees, and you can bet that cold, rain and wind won’t be too far behind.
Keep an eye on Met Eireann for the latest updates and dress accordingly - layer up, brace yourself and be ready for whatever the Wicklow weather throws at you!
FOOTWEAR
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.
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
As you can see from the above map, the new Event Village and Start Line in Giltspur are a 5-10 minute walk from Registration, which itself is another 10-15 minutes from the Car Parks. So give yourself plenty of time - arrive onsite at least 45-60 minutes before your start time to avoid any last minute stress. Late arrivals may be removed from the event without a refund. Check the Start Time Checker here to plan ahead.
Our registration process is fully digital, so everyone must pass through the Registration Tent before heading to the Start Area. Simply queue and go to the next available marshal. To speed things up, bring the ticket you received when you first signed up or the unique QR code generated when you enter your email address in the Start Time Checker.
IMPORTANT: Remember to enter the email address originally used to sign up -
this might be your work email or even your partner's!
If you don't have your ticket or QR code, don’t panic! As long as your booking appears on the Start Time Checker, we should still be able to find your registration.
Once registered, securely fasten your Wristband to your wrist immediately. It contains your unique Participant Number and Wave Colour, which you’ll need to enter the Start Area and to collect your exclusive H&B T-shirt at the Finish Line. No Wristband = No Run & No T-Shirt!
In the Event Village, there is also a Secure Valuables Drop for your car keys, mobile phone, wallet etc. Make sure to allow enough time to drop them off before the event and pick them up afterwards.
Get registered, get prepped and get ready for the challenge ahead!
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 large groups and we’ve already contacted the Group Leaders to arrange this. If you’re part of a group of 6 or more participants (or 4 or more for the 08:45 start time) and haven’t been in touch with us about Fast Track, email cormac.niland@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.
EVENT VILLAGE IN GILTSPUR
Once through registration, you have a 5-10 minute walk uphill to our new location, Giltspur, where you will find the Start & Finish Lines, as well as the Event Village, where you can grab a coffee, snacks and treats. You can wait in Giltspur until your starting group or "wave" (sorted by colour) is invited into the Holding Pen, which will be approx. 20 minutes before your allocated start time.
WHAT TO WEAR
Click here to read our suggestions on what to wear...and, just as importantly, what NOT to wear!
As mentioned above, 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 know your laces so your footwar doesn't get stuck in the mud!
FACILITIES & SERVICES
Once you've registered, make your way up to Giltspur (a 5-10 min walk) where you'll find the Event Village, including Hell’s Kitchen, the perfect spot to grab a coffee or well-earned treat before or after your challenge.
In The Barn, you'll find the Secure Valuables Drop for small items like car keys, wallets, phones etc, as well as Changing Rooms and a minor First Aid Centre for cuts and bruises. If you need further medical attention, you'll be brought to the main First Aid Centre in Basecamp.
If you survive the course, you'll earn 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 claim your hard-earned t-shirt at the end.
LIMITED CHANGING FACILITIES - PLAN AHEAD!
We strongly recommend changing into your running gear at your car and storing your kit bag there, as changing facilites in Giltspur are extremely limited.
A Secure Valuable Drop is available for small items, such as car keys, wallets, phones etc - but we don't have space for large kit bags, so it's best to leave them in the car.
Also, be warned - we expect the paths back to your car to get very muddy as the day goes on, especially if it rains. The last thing you want is to change into clean, dry clothes in Giltspur, only to trudge through a mud pit back to the car! Instead, head back to your car and change on solid tarmac, so you stay warm, dry and mud-free for the journey home!
HELL'S KITCHEN FOOD VILLAGE - FUEL UP & FEAST!
After battling through the mud, wind and rain, you'll need to fuel up - and Hell’s Kitchen has you covered!
This Saturday, the lineup of food vendors will be serving up hearty, mouth-watering grub to help you warm up, recharge and celebrate your achievement. Whether you’re craving something hot, sweet, savoury or downright indulgent, there’s something for every warrior:
The Divine Foodie
Bagel, Coffee & Toasties
The Crepe Box
Coffee & Donut
Loaded Fries & Burger
NOT VERY SPECTATOR-FRIENDLY - AND FOR GOOD REASON!
As mentioned above, recent heavy rain has left Killruddery’s ground conditions pretty dreadful, making this HELL & BACK event far better suited for participants than spectators.
For health and safety reasons, spectators will be restricted to the Giltspur / Start Line / Finish Line area. While they’ll get to see participants set off, they’ll then have a 2-3 hour wait before seeing them cross the Finish Line - there’s no option to follow along or watch from the obstacles.
On top of that, most cars will be parked a 15-25 minute walk from Giltspur, meaning it’s not as simple as popping away for a few hours and returning for the finish. It’s a 30-50 minute round trip on a very muddy path, which is far from ideal in winter conditions.
Given the cold, wet and challenging terrain, this event is a very different experience from a HELL & BACK summer event. So, we strongly recommend leaving spectators at home - trust us, they’ll thank you for it in the long run!!
WARM UPS / GROUP PLEDGE
You won’t want to miss the legendary Warm-Up at the Start Line, led by our Hype Crew - Liam, Kellyann, Gavin, Finn and Colin - who will get your blood pumping and your energy levels through the roof! And, of course, no HELL & BACK experience is complete without the infamous Group Pledge, guaranteed to get you fired up and ready to take on the course.
You’ll be called into the Start Pen approximately 20 minutes before your allocated start time for your warm-up and health & safety briefing. Make sure you allow plenty of time to get to Giltspur after parking and registration, so you don’t miss a second of the action.
WORK TOGETHER
While you can set your own pace at H&B Winter, it is much more fun when you work together and help others to get over all the obstacles. There are no big prizes for finishing first 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!
A 7KM WINTER OBSTACLE LOOP LIKE NO OTHER!
The 7KM loop awaiting you this Saturday is rugged, relentless and ready to test every ounce of your endurance. Between the brutal obstacles, punishing terrain and whatever the Wicklow winter throws at you, this course is not for the faint-hearted.
Whether you’re taking on 7KM (one lap), 14KM (two laps) or the full 21KM (three laps = half-marathon), you’ll be crawling, climbing and scrambling from the moment you set off. Expect a gruelling mix of steep hills, deep mud, rocky trails and treacherous terrain, with very little chance to catch your breath.
Scattered along the route are some of our toughest obstacles, including Heartbreak Ridge, Valley of Pain and Satan’s Pit - each one built to test your strength, stamina and determination.
Unlike the summer events, there are no water obstacles or swimming, but don’t mistake that for an easier ride. The rain, wind and thick, energy-draining mud will ensure you’re soaked, cold and working harder with every step.
And after all the mud, bogs and obstacles, the Finish Line is finally in sight. That last stretch is your moment to soak it all in - tired, battered and covered in muck, but victorious. Keep moving, cross that line and enjoy the feeling of conquering the challenge. You’ve well and truly earned it!
WAVE 1 @ 08:45 - STRICT CUT OFF TIMES
The first wave of the day at 08:45 is for participants aiming to complete 1 (7KM), 2 (14KM) or 3 (21KM - half-marathon!) laps, but to continue beyond each lap, you must meet the strict cut-off times below. These time limits are deliberately tough, so push hard, stay on pace and keep moving!
2nd Lap Cut-Off (7-14KM): 10:15 AM (90 mins)
3rd Lap Cut-Off (14-21KM): 11:00 AM (135 mins)
Each time you complete a lap, you'll receive a new coloured wristband to distinguish you from others on the course.
HELL & BACK isn't usually about winners but, due to the unique challenge of this event, there will be a small prize for the first male and first female to complete the full 21KM half-marathon - both earning the title of true Winter Warrior!
CLOSING TIMES
For those starting in Waves 2-6 (from 10:15-12:40), this is more of a fun run with obstacles, so take it at your own pace and enjoy the experience!
The average completion time for the 7KM loop is around 1.5 hours, meaning everyone should have plenty of time to finish before the 14:30 closing time.
However, please note that if you don’t reach certain points by specified times, you will be redirected towards the Finish Line via a shortcut. For Health & Safety reasons, anyone still on the course after 14:30 will be assisted to the Finish Line by buggy.
The site will close at 15:00, and the Southern Cross IDA Car Park will close at 15:30, so please ensure you take all belongings with you when you leave.
A WELL-EARNED CUP OF HOT SOUP!
Cross the Finish Line, and you’ll be greeted by Taragh and her team at The Divine Foodie, ready to warm you up with a delicious, complimentary cup of hot soup. After battling through the mud, wind and rain, it’s the perfect way to refuel and thaw out!
OPTIMUM NUTRITION - FUEL YOUR PERFORMANCE!
We're delighted to have Optimum Nutrition, the world’s No.1 sports nutrition brand, back as an official HELL & BACK partner! Part of the Glanbia Performance Nutrition family, Optimum Nutrition is the official nutritional partner of McLaren, Leinster Rugby, the Gaelic Players Association…and, of course, HELL & BACK!
To help you power through the course and recover like a pro, Optimum Nutrition offers a comprehensive range of sports and fitness supplements designed to support you before, during and after your Winter Warrior challenge. You’ll have the chance to sample some of their products at the Finish Line on Saturday, so make sure to grab a well-earned boost after conquering the course!
Want to stock up? Click here to claim an exclusive 25% discount* from their online shop using the code HELLANDBACK25!
Click here to read more about our partnership with Optimum Nutrition.
* Terms and conditions apply. 25% discount applies to non-"Elite" products only.
COLLABORATION WITH NEW DIMENSIONS ACTIVE
We have joined forces with New Dimensions Active to inspire individuals to push beyond their perceived limitations. By combining cutting-edge fitness apparel with the ultimate test of endurance, we aim to empower participants to conquer their fears and unlock their full potential. Click here to find out more!
EXCLUSIVE H&B FINISHER'S TSHIRT
After you finish, make sure you collect your exclusive H&B Finisher's Tshirt that you can wear with pride forevermore!
HOT SHOWERS IN SHORELINE LEISURE
If you’re in need of a hot shower to warm up after your HELL & BACK adventure, head to Shoreline Leisure Centre, Bray on Southern Cross Road - just a 2 minute drive from IDA Business Park. Male and female dressing rooms with showers are available, so you can clean off the mud and thaw out properly before heading home.
We recommend packing up your car and driving to Shoreline, as it’s too far to walk after the event.
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.
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.
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.
Comentários