IMRA Nav Challenge 1 - Comeraghs 15K

🏞️ Nav Challenge 1 – Comeraghs, Waterford (15 km) 🏅

Kick off the Munster Nav Challenge League with this classic navigational adventure in the Comeragh Mountains! Test your map and compass skills on open mountain terrain while exploring stunning upland landscapes. Perfect for runners experienced in navigation who enjoy a challenging, self-planned route.

📅 Date: Sunday, 13th September 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00
📍 Location: Powers the Pot Camping & Caravan Site, Harney's Cross, via Clonmel, Co. Waterford (Google Maps)

🎽 Event Overview:

Distance: 15 km (LONG), 8–9 km (SHORT)

Short Course: 8–9 km

Climb: 500–600 m (LONG), 300–400 m (SHORT)

Difficulty: Difficult (Difficulty 9 – >500 m ascent, >10 km)

Terrain: Open mountain, heather, peat, some rough trackways, short road sections

Race Marking: Route not marked

GPS Allowed: No

League: Navigational Challenge

🎟️ Entry Details:

Opens: Monday, 7th September 2026, 21:00

Closes: Saturday, 12th September 2026, 18:00

Cost: €7 seniors, €5 over 65s & under 18s

Limit: 250 participants

Juniors (<18 years): Not permitted due to unmarked open mountain course

🎒 Mandatory Kit:

Level C – Advanced Kit:

Waterproof jacket with integrated hood and taped seams

Hat or buff

Gloves

Whistle

Charged mobile phone with emergency number stored

Foil blanket, bivvy bag, or equivalent

Waterproof full leg cover

Minimum 500 mL water

Emergency food

Map of route/area (EastWest Comeragh 1:25,000 recommended)

Compass

All items must be carried; final requirements will be confirmed on the day. Failure to carry mandatory kit may result in refusal of entry or disqualification.

📍 Route Description:

Participants navigate between controls using map and compass only.

Controls marked with orange/white orienteering kites with unique punches.

LONG course: 15–16 km, 500–600 m ascent, 9 controls to complete

SHORT course: 8–9 km, 300–400 m ascent, 5 controls to complete

Course closes after 4 hours (return by 16:00).

Open mountain terrain with grasses, heather, peat, some short roads; avoid disturbing livestock.

🚗 Getting There:
Parking & registration at Powers the Pot Camping. Toilets available. Tent & campervan pitches available for weekend stays (website). Small €2+ contribution requested for facilities.

📝 Organisers Instructions:

Bring your own map (EastWest Comeragh) & compass; protect maps from wear and water.

No GPS, smartphones, or electronic navigational aids allowed (except in emergencies—declare at finish).

First-timers briefing: 11:30 at registration.

Bring your own cup for refreshments afterward.

🧭 Nav Challenge Format:

Plan your own route between controls.

Optional master map released 5 minutes after start.

Experience the full immersion of open mountain navigation—strategy, endurance, and adventure combined.

An unforgettable navigational challenge through the Comeraghs—plan carefully, follow your compass, and enjoy the hills like never before! 🗺️⛰️