Saturday 26th October 2024
Welcome to the exhilarating Zoo to Fell Marathon, taking place for its second year in October 2024! This exciting event promises an unforgettable adventure through stunning landscapes.
Whether you're a seasoned marathon runner or a novice eager to embrace new challenges, this race welcomes participants of all abilities.
Prepare yourself for an epic journey as you start at Blackpool Zoo, surrounded by the vibrant energy of nature and wildlife. From there, you'll embark on a thrilling course that winds its way through picturesque trails, showcasing the natural beauty of the region. As you conquer each mile, you'll witness breathtaking views, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and feel a sense of serenity enveloping you.
But the experience doesn't end at the finish line—wait until you see the medals! Our awesome medals are designed to commemorate your achievement and serve as a lasting symbol of your determination and perseverance. Each medal is crafted with utmost care, capturing the essence of the marathon and its unique connection to both Blackpool Zoo and Beacon Fell.
While the Zoo to Fell Marathon is undoubtedly a challenging feat, the atmosphere throughout the event remains vibrant, fun, and friendly. You'll be surrounded by like-minded individuals who share your passion for running and the great outdoors. Whether you're seeking to beat your personal record, enjoy a leisurely jog, or simply revel in the joy of being part of a community, you'll find ample support and camaraderie along the way.
Whether you're a seasoned marathon runner or a novice eager to embrace new challenges, this race welcomes participants of all abilities.
Prepare yourself for an epic journey as you start at Blackpool Zoo, surrounded by the vibrant energy of nature and wildlife. From there, you'll embark on a thrilling course that winds its way through picturesque trails, showcasing the natural beauty of the region. As you conquer each mile, you'll witness breathtaking views, encounter diverse flora and fauna, and feel a sense of serenity enveloping you.
But the experience doesn't end at the finish line—wait until you see the medals! Our awesome medals are designed to commemorate your achievement and serve as a lasting symbol of your determination and perseverance. Each medal is crafted with utmost care, capturing the essence of the marathon and its unique connection to both Blackpool Zoo and Beacon Fell.
While the Zoo to Fell Marathon is undoubtedly a challenging feat, the atmosphere throughout the event remains vibrant, fun, and friendly. You'll be surrounded by like-minded individuals who share your passion for running and the great outdoors. Whether you're seeking to beat your personal record, enjoy a leisurely jog, or simply revel in the joy of being part of a community, you'll find ample support and camaraderie along the way.
REGISTRATION AND START TIME
Registration is open from 7am where you will collect your race number, and reference map.
You will need to confirm your mobile phone number and be subjected to random kit checks. The race will start at 8.45am.
Registration is open from 7am where you will collect your race number, and reference map.
You will need to confirm your mobile phone number and be subjected to random kit checks. The race will start at 8.45am.
Zoo to Fell is a 26.2 mile point to point Marathon starting off outside Blackpool Zoo, with the sounds of the animals in the air you will set off on your journey to Beacon Fell. The course is signed on the road sections with the country trail part being waymarked. In some places where there are road crossings we will have marshals to guide runners and calm traffic.
A full digital route including GPX downloads will be supplied to all entrants before race day.
The route is 5.2 miles of country roads (19%); 5.75 miles canal towpaths (22%); 15.25 miles on grass trail, river side and open farm land and loosely paved paths (59%) Elevation is +1316 ft (+401m) and -600 ft (-183m).
There are 4 check points, each will have water, and a selection of supplementary snacks,. A drink will be available for all athletes at the finish.
Check point locations can be found here
Check point locations can be found here
Return coaches back to Blackpool will be available for all entrants at a cost of £5 and must be pre booked on your booking form. For anyone wanting to stay overnight in Blackpool either before or after the event there are many hotels and B&Bs to choose from, but you will need to book them in advance due to it being the illuminations season.
Arrival by car – There are many car parks in Blackpool locations can be found here
Arrival by train – If arriving by train? You are two miles from the start and registration. There are taxis available but you are in walking distance of hotels and all attractions.
Please be aware that there will be no parking at the Zoo due to it being the start of half term, We advise that you get dropped off or park at Stanley Park or other car parks in the area.
BAGGAGE TRANSFER
We will transfer a single competitor bag to the finish, so you have warm, dry clothes waiting for you. Your bag should be no larger than a UK airport carry-on bag size (56 x 45 x 25 cm).
Arrival by car – There are many car parks in Blackpool locations can be found here
Arrival by train – If arriving by train? You are two miles from the start and registration. There are taxis available but you are in walking distance of hotels and all attractions.
Please be aware that there will be no parking at the Zoo due to it being the start of half term, We advise that you get dropped off or park at Stanley Park or other car parks in the area.
BAGGAGE TRANSFER
We will transfer a single competitor bag to the finish, so you have warm, dry clothes waiting for you. Your bag should be no larger than a UK airport carry-on bag size (56 x 45 x 25 cm).
Due to the strenuous physical demands of running 26.2 miles off trail in one day it is restricted to competitors over 18 years of age only.
Although largely a trail event, due to the nature of the event, you will be passing through some urban areas and there are inevitably some road crossings where it will be necessary to slow and possibly stop. No roads are closed. Particular attention should be given at these points.
As always, if you see a runner experiencing difficulties, please inform Checkpoint Marshals/Race HQ. Emergency contact details can be found in your race pack. Our team will always endeavour to reach any participant in difficulty but due to inaccessibility of the Trail this can take time. Participants who lose time helping another fallen participant, struggling against the cut off time due to this reason, can claim this time back, subject to Race Director discretion and under the proviso of completing within their new, extended cut off period.
In the event of a LIFE-THREATENING Medical Emergency please call 999 first and then inform Race HQ
Although largely a trail event, due to the nature of the event, you will be passing through some urban areas and there are inevitably some road crossings where it will be necessary to slow and possibly stop. No roads are closed. Particular attention should be given at these points.
As always, if you see a runner experiencing difficulties, please inform Checkpoint Marshals/Race HQ. Emergency contact details can be found in your race pack. Our team will always endeavour to reach any participant in difficulty but due to inaccessibility of the Trail this can take time. Participants who lose time helping another fallen participant, struggling against the cut off time due to this reason, can claim this time back, subject to Race Director discretion and under the proviso of completing within their new, extended cut off period.
In the event of a LIFE-THREATENING Medical Emergency please call 999 first and then inform Race HQ
Waterproof Coat / Running Jacket (with sealed seams) • Long Sleeved Base Layer • Water Bottle or Bladder – Minimum 1 litre per person • Fully charged Mobile Phone • Foil Blanket • Whistle
Event Terms & ConditionsEach ultra-runner agrees and understands the full nature of an ultra-event. That an ultra involves running throughout the day and at times with limited rest over challenging terrain with inherent risks of changing weather conditions. Each ultra-runner understands that it is their responsibility to adequately train for the event and monitor their own health throughout and are ultimately responsible for their own safety. Criteria ensures that a runners safety depends on their own skills and abilities, and these have been gained from other events placing them in good stead to take on the mental and physical challenges of an ultra-event.
Each ultra-runner understands these are there responsibilities not those of Fylde Coast Runners.
Please read these terms and conditions carefully and make sure that you understand them, before placing an entry on our site. By submitting your entry form, you agree to be bound by these terms and conditions ("the Terms"), and by submitting, you declare that you hereby, for yourself, your heirs and executors, administrators, successors, and assigns, declare that:-
Due to the nature of the event, costs are incurred as soon as a participant signs up, no refunds are possible in this event. Deferrals are possible up until 1 week before the event date at a cost of £10 due to costs incurred. CLICK HERE TO DEFER YOUR PLACE.
During the race
Please inform a Race Marshal at one of the Checkpoint’s, Race HQ or the Race Director. This will ensure all participants who are registered and pull out of the race are accounted for, allowing for the accurate and safe running of the event. If a participant withdraws at a Checkpoint, they must hand over their Bib Number to race staff to signal their retirement. Marshals’ will inform Race HQ and each of the remaining Checkpoints can update their manual lists. A sweeper after the cut off time will take retired participants to the Finish Venue. Although ultimately decisions to continue are in the hands of the runner, Fylde Coast Runners reserve the right to pull any participant out of the race on health grounds.
Each ultra-runner understands these are there responsibilities not those of Fylde Coast Runners.
Please read these terms and conditions carefully and make sure that you understand them, before placing an entry on our site. By submitting your entry form, you agree to be bound by these terms and conditions ("the Terms"), and by submitting, you declare that you hereby, for yourself, your heirs and executors, administrators, successors, and assigns, declare that:-
- I hereby agree to comply with the Conditions of Entry and all event rules and regulations as set down by Fylde Coast Runners ("the Event Organisers"). These conditions include the length of time taken to complete sections of the course which may be implemented by the Event Organisers, at their discretion, to ensure safe and proper running of the event
- I agree that the decision of the Event Organiser will be final in all circumstances and no discussion will be made. Participants who have passed kit check at Race Registration and then failed a random kit check during the event can be immediately disqualified by the Race Director or by Senior Checkpoint Marshals. It is the judgement and decision of the Race Director or the Senior Checkpoint Marshal to decide on the seriousness of the breach. A time penalty can be added as an alternative (a minimum of 1 hour added to the runner’s race time per missing item) unless the runner decides to head back to the Checkpoint to obtain the 'Mandatory kit' item.
- I agree to conduct myself in a sporting, professional and cautious manner during my participation in the event and understand that I may be disqualified if I do not do so.
- I understand participation in this Event is physically strenuous and demanding and am fully aware of the nature of the event and all associated medical and physical risks involved. I further certify that I am physically capable of competing in this Event and I will only compete if I am fit enough to do so.
- I will be immediately disqualified from the Event if I am found to have intentionally shortened the route to the race and found to be deliberately littering the course.
- If I have any medical condition(s), including allergies, which the Event Organisers or Event medical team might need to be aware of, I have provided details of this on my entry form, and will also provide written details of this on the rear of my pin-on numbers prior to my participation in the Event. I agree to always display my bib number during the Event.
- I acknowledge that my pin-on number is personal to me, and it is non-transferable under any circumstances.
- I understand and agree that I participate in this Event entirely at my own risk, that I must rely on my own ability in dealing with all hazards, and that I must conduct myself in a manner that is safe for myself and all others throughout the duration of this Event.
- I agree to retire immediately from the event if ordered to do so by the Event Organisers, any government official or member of the emergency services.
- I accept full liability for any medical expenses incurred as a result of training for and/or participating in the Event.
- I accept that the Event Organisers, sponsors, race officials, medical advisers and any person involved in the organisation of this Event are not liable for any injury or illness or resultant death that I may suffer because of my participation in the Event, whether prior to, during or subsequent to the Event. I enter the race entirely at my own risk. I renounce any rights and claims for damages that I may have against the Event Organisers, sponsors, race officials, medical advisers and any person involved in the organisation of this Event together with their officers, directors, shareholders, successors and assigns, (collectively, "Releasees") and release them from all liability to the Participant and his/her personal representatives, assigns, heirs, executors, and successors for loss(es), damage(s) and claims therefor on account of injury to Participant or his/her property or the resultant death of Participant, whether caused by the active or passive negligence of the Releasees or otherwise, in connection with Participants involvement in the Event ("Losses"), and further covenants not to sue any of the aforementioned parties for such Losses.
- Whilst the Event Organisers take every care with the staging of the Event, I accept that I must make all reasonable precautions for the safeguarding of my person and of my property during my participation in this Event. I further acknowledge that personal accident and personal items insurance is my responsibility.
- I understand that at registration, I must produce photographic identification.
- I am aware that when running, the function of the marshals is only to indicate direction and that I must decide if the movement is safe.
- I accept that, in relation to my participation in this Event, I am required to obey instructions from marshals and relevant signage before, during and after the Event.
- The Event Organisers introduce cut off times for completion of sections of the course as they see fit. These will be made clear prior to the race. Competitors may be instructed to withdraw from the Event in accordance with the imposed cut off times.
- I accept that the Event Organisers reserve the right to amend the event format or cancel the Event due to health and safety reasons, including storm, rain, inclement weather, winds or any other act of natural conditions. I accept that my Entry fee shall be non-refundable in this circumstance as costs have already been incurred.
- I accept that the Event Organisers will do their utmost to provide me with a finish time following my completion of the Event, however they will not be held responsible for any computer result anomalies.
- I will be 18 years old or over on the day of the Event.
- I have read, understood, and accept the Fylde Coast Runners Withdrawal Policy (below).
- Through my completion and submission of the online Entry Form, I am committing to paying for my Event entry via the means as instructed on the Fylde Coast Runners website.
- I irrevocably consent to my appearance in any media format, in relation to the publicity of this Event, and in future publicity and advertising of Fylde Coast Runners, provided that such use does not imply my direct endorsement of any official sponsor or suppliers of the Event.
- All decisions and rulings by the Event Organisers, its employees and its agents are considered final.
- The Event Organisers reserve the right to vary these conditions by giving notice to in writing in any official event material or correspondence prior to the Event.
- A person who is not party to these Terms shall not have any rights under or in connection with them under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999.
- We will not be liable or responsible for any failure to perform, or delay in performance of, any of our obligations under the Terms that is caused by events outside our reasonable control (Force Majeure Event).
- You agree that we may publish your Personal Information as part of the results of the Event and may pass such information to the governing body or any affiliated organisation for the purpose of insurance, licences or for publishing results either for the event alone or combined with or compared to other events. Results may include (but not be limited to) name, any club affiliation, race times, occupation, and age category.
Due to the nature of the event, costs are incurred as soon as a participant signs up, no refunds are possible in this event. Deferrals are possible up until 1 week before the event date at a cost of £10 due to costs incurred. CLICK HERE TO DEFER YOUR PLACE.
During the race
Please inform a Race Marshal at one of the Checkpoint’s, Race HQ or the Race Director. This will ensure all participants who are registered and pull out of the race are accounted for, allowing for the accurate and safe running of the event. If a participant withdraws at a Checkpoint, they must hand over their Bib Number to race staff to signal their retirement. Marshals’ will inform Race HQ and each of the remaining Checkpoints can update their manual lists. A sweeper after the cut off time will take retired participants to the Finish Venue. Although ultimately decisions to continue are in the hands of the runner, Fylde Coast Runners reserve the right to pull any participant out of the race on health grounds.
