Drinnahilly is the closing race of the Hill & Dale Series, organised by Newcastle Athletic Club in the Mourne Mountains, County Down. Starting in Donard Park on the edge of Newcastle, the 6k course climbs steadily on gravel trails and woodland paths up through Donard Forest to the summit of Drinnahilly, looping around the hill's radio mast. From the high point, runners descend sharply via a firebreak before rejoining the main forest path for a fast run back down to the finish at Donard Park. With a steep, sustained climb followed by a quick descent, it is a short but demanding mountain race on mixed forest terrain. Traditionally the shortest race of the series, it doubles as a celebration, with prize-giving, food and banter afterwards, and raises funds for Mourne mountain charities.
Drinnahilly is the closing race of the Hill & Dale Series, organised by Newcastle Athletic Club in the Mourne Mountains, County Down. Starting in Donard Park on the edge of Newcastle, the 6k course climbs steadily on gravel trails and woodland paths up through Donard Forest to the summit of Drinnahilly, looping around the hill's radio mast. From the high point, runners descend sharply via a firebreak before rejoining the main forest path for a fast run back down to the finish at Donard Park. With a steep, sustained climb followed by a quick descent, it is a short but demanding mountain race on mixed forest terrain. Traditionally the shortest race of the series, it doubles as a celebration, with prize-giving, food and banter afterwards, and raises funds for Mourne mountain charities.