CAH May Fair Races 2024 – Race Instructions
Many thanks for entering the May Fair races and we hope you enjoy the event. Full details can be found at:
2024 May Fair Race General Information
We have approximately 700 runners this year and its important that you read and follow these instructions to ensure we all have a safe and fun race day!
Start Times
Both 10k and 5k races start at the same time/place in the Ballyclare Rugby Club grounds at 10.00am sharp on Saturday 25th May.
Transport/Car Parking
Entry into Ballyclare Rugby Club at Cloughlan Lane will be closed at 9.30am sharp.
If traveling from Belfast direction, please be advised to travel to Ballyclare via Doagh or use the new bypass (Jubilee Way) on the Templepatrick Road.
We would encourage runners to car share were possible and if you live locally we would encourage you to make your way to the start on foot.
Demand for parking spaces at the Rugby Club will be high. Once this parking is full you may not be allowed to enter the Cloughan Lane so please plan accordingly and leave plenty of time before the lane closes and the race starts. You must adhere to marshal instructions if using the Rugby Club car park. This is for everyone’s safety.
Parking is available within the town but be aware these are away from the start line so plan accordingly. This parking may be locally chargeable. Please be considerate of our neighbours and residents in Ballyclare and be careful not to cause obstructions.
Be advised that Cloughan Lane will not reopen after the race until all 5K and 10K runners have finished, and Marshals deem it is safe to do so.
Ballyclare Rugby Club, The Cloughan, Doagh Rd, Ballyclare BT39 9JD
Google Maps – Ballyclare Rugby Club
Ballyclare Rugby Club
Collection of Race Number
Race number and T-shirt can be collected on Friday 24th May from 6.00pm – 8.00pm at Ballyclare Rugby Club, Cloughan Lane, Doagh Rd and on Saturday morning from 8.00- 9.15am. Please do not ask for your T-shirt size to be changed as there are no spares.
Entry Amendments
We unfortunately cannot accept any entry amendments, including transfer between race distances or change of name.
Late Entries
There will be VERY limited numbers of entries available at registration on Friday 24th from 18:00-20:00, and Saturday 25th from 08:00-09:15. There will be a strict cut-off at 09:15 on Saturday 25th for on the day entries.
These entries will be on a first come first served basis. The 5K will be priced at £20, and the 10K will be priced at £25.
Race Numbers
Race numbers must be worn on the front of vests/T-shirts.
The race number incorporates a timing chip – please ensure you wear the race number at all times during the race. The loss of a number will mean that your time and position will not be recorded.
As per Athletic NI rules race entries cannot be transferred. This will lead to runners being disqualified.
Headphones
In line with UK Athletics Rules, the wearing of headphones is NOT permitted. The rule applies to in-ear or over-the-ear headphones (with the exception of those medically prescribed). Bone conducting headphones eg Aftershokz, which sit on the cheek are permitted as they transfer sound through the cheekbone and do not block other sounds through the ear.
Buggies, prams and dogs
Please note for Health & Safety reasons, runners will not be allowed to compete pushing buggies or prams.
In line with UK Athletics Rules runners must not be accompanied by a dog in the race.
Courses
Both courses are marked at every km point and will be fully marshaled.
5K Route
10K Route
Both 10k and 5k races start together. Please be aware, the first section of the course on both 5k and 10k routes is on a gravel path that has uneven areas and speed bumps.
The courses diverge on approaching the town square – 5k to the right and 10k to the left. Please ensure you are on the correct side and can hear instructions from marshals.
The roads along the routes are officially closed with a traffic management plan in place and PSNI approval. These closures will be a rolling style closure with the roads reopening when the last runner passes. There will be club marshals at various points along the route alongside PSNI officers at certain locations. Please always heed their advise and direction.
Whilst we have done everything in our power to officially close the roads, a motor vehicle may enter the route accidentally. If this occurs please take care and obey the normal rules of the road. Diversion signs for traffic will be in place at various points along the routes to avoid this.
Runners may be asked to use footpaths where available, or when directed to do so by a marshal/PNSI officer, and to keep to the left hand side of the road except when otherwise directed.
Failure to obey a PSNI officer or race official/marshal at any point may lead to disqualification.
First Aid
First aiders will be present at the end of the race. If assistance is required, please contact a marshal or first-aider. DO NOT RUN IF YOU FEEL UNWELL.
Water Stations
There will be TWO official water stations along the 10k route and ONE station on the 5k route. Water will be in recyclable cups.
Finish / Post Race
At the end of the race you should run through the finish line.
The timing chip attached to your race number is disposable and does not need to be returned.
Tea and refreshments will be served in the Rugby Club.
Prize Giving
Prize giving will take place at approximately 11:30 am in the Rugby Club – maximum one prize per individual. Age Category winners will be notified by email shortly after the event.
Thank You!
County Antrim Harriers would like to thank all the sponsors, supporters, and volunteers who have made this race possible. Good Luck and enjoy your race.