Mud, Sweat and Mary’s FAQ
1. Event Details
Q: What is the purpose of this event?
A: To raise funds in a community driven and fun way, to ensure the Juvenile teams of St. Mary’s GAA Club can continue to train and play matches throughout the winter months while the pitch regeneration is taking place at Club headquarters. While the Club has access to Rathcoole park, during winter months, training and games are prohibited from being played here. In 2026, additional sites were sourced for a fee for short periods in neighboring clubs; however, the needs for the 2026/2027 season are much larger and additional funds are necessary to ensure there is no break in training or games.
Q: What is the cost/fee for participants?
A: The cost per participant is €50.
Q: How do I pay the fee?
A: There are two options to pay the participation fee.
• Option 1 is full payment now and Option 2 is a deposit of €25 now and remainder paid by August 21st
• Scan the QR code available on either the posters or the links available in ClubZap.
Q: What if I don’t want to participate in the event but do want to ensure Juvenile teams can continue to train and play games during the winter months?
A: Firstly thank you! Yes, this can be done through the QR code available on the posters which provides an option to make a donation without participating in the event.
Q: Where will the event take place (location)?
A: The event will take place in the Alive Outside Hell and Back course in Kilruddery EstateA98 W9F2 (near Bray). Specific directions will be sent in advance of the event.
Q: When will the event occur?
A: 22nd September 2026
Q: I’ve participated in Hell and Back events before. What’s so different about this one?
A: This is a private event that will be attended only by members of our local community. Mud Sweat and Mary’s provides the opportunity for family and friends to have fun competing and helping each other while providing necessary funds for our Juvenile teams. With a private event we can also cater smaller groups and less risk of traffic jams on the N11!
2. Event Location Facilities
Q: Is parking available on site?
A: Parking is available on site. Cost and specific location of parking will be confirmed when final car numbers known. Car pooling is encouraged.
Q: Will the Club be running Buses to the Event location?
A: No buses will not be centrally organized. As noted above, parking will be available but car pooling is heavily encouraged.
Q: What toilet and wash-off facilities are provided onsite?
A: Containers for changing and toilets at the Alive Outside HQ adjacent to the course. Basic wash-off available; no full showers.
Q: Is there a bag drop or valuables storage?
A: Opportunity for a bag drop is available but the advice is not to bring valuables.
3. Medical & Emergency Cover
Q: Will there be first aid support on the day?
A: First aid support will be provided by the event organisers on the day. All participants will be asked to sign a waiver in advance of the event.
4. Event Details
Q: How are waves, capacity and start format determined?
A: Details (number of waves, participants per wave, spacing, staggered starts, mixed adult/child handling) will be arranged with the event team four weeks before the event based on confirmed numbers. Waves will be sized appropriately for safety.
Q: What distance is the course
A: 5km
Q: What are the minimum age requirements?
A: Minimum age of participation is 7 years old accompanied by an adult. 8 years old if unaccompanied. We hope to see great attendance from both adults and kids to make it a real community affair.
Q: Will there be water obstacles?
A: No. Water obstacles are not available for private events; however, all the other great obstacles including the ramps, the walls etc. will be there.
Q: Do I have to run the course or can I walk?
A: You can run, walk or skip! Its entirely up to you. Also if there is any obstacle that you don’t want to participate in, you can walk around it. The course is built to suit both kids and adults.
Q: Will adults and kids do the same course?
A: Yes they will. The course is designed to work for everyone.
Q: What do we need to wear?
A: We recommend comfortable, weather-appropriate sportswear and sturdy footwear to ensure you’re ready for the outdoors. Runners are ideal for navigating the terrain and providing the grip and stability needed for uneven or muddy conditions. Please note that flip-flops and sandals are not suitable.
