ESSENTIAL EVENT INFORMATION 2024
SEA TO SUMMIT: YR WYDDFA
This is our Essential Event Information document, which contains a comprehensive round up of everything you need to know ahead of topping out at the highest trig point in Wales! Soon you'll be stood on our coastal start line at Fort Belan gearing up for an 'ultra' 33 mile day out bagging this famous and glorious peak! So, read on to find the answers to all your questions ahead of the adventure!
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Due to the scale and nature of Rat Race Events, changes to the course, structure and timings sometimes need to be made right up to the date of the event. To ensure you have the latest information and are fully prepared for the challenge that lies ahead, please check back on this EEI before travelling to the event.
This EEI was last updated on: 08/10/2024 - Waterproof leg cover and thermal mid layer added to mandatory kit list. These additions will also be checked at Registration so please do ensure you bring them.
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10/10/2024 Tracking link added. Shuttle buses sold out and parking information updated.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
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Online Disclaimer MUST be completed before Registration, you can do this HERE. You will be required to show your disclaimer completion confirmation email at the entrance of Registration before progressing to kit check and tracker collection.
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Registration is on Friday 11th October between 1400 - 2200 at Bron y Feds Uchaf, Rhyd Ddu (LL54 7YS). You must register between these times, there is no option to register on the morning of the event. The google pin for this location is HERE. The what 3 words location for this is frowns.expecting.wins.
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Bib Numbers will be posted out in advance of the event. You should expect to receive your adventure pack around 1-2 weeks before the event. International participants will be required to collect their adventure pack from Registration. If your postal address has changed since you signed up to the event, please contact us on events@ratrace.com with your new address so we can update this.
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Waves will be indicated by your bib number colour. If you are unsure of your wave, please check the email you received with the EEI. Wave 1 will depart at 0600, wave 2 0615 & wave 3 0630.
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Kit check of key items at Registration. You will need to bring these key items with you and will only be able to progress to tracker collection when you have passed kit check. More information on the key items required can be found in the Kit List section.
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Pair or team entry details must be filled in via your RR account by the 11th September 2024. After this date there will be a £15 charge per person. To add details, please log into the RR account the entry was purchased under, click 'manage entry' and select 'add team member'.
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The transfer deadline is 11th September 2024. You can find more information on our transfer policy HERE and submit a request via your RR account. We are unable to process any transfer requests or make any exceptions after the deadline has passed.​
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Trackers will be picked up at Registration.
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Toilets are available at the start, finish and all pitstops.
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Waymarking: This event is fully waymarked, please do not follow any GPX routes.
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Road Safety: This event takes place on public paths, shared access trails and live roads. There are no closed road sections please always exercise caution.
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Route: We have strict arrangements and routings agreed with landowners and authorities, it is important that you follow all RR signage you see including instructions. If we ask you to close a gate behind you please do!
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Supporters are unable to access the start line as this is on private land with no parking available. Please see our recommended access points for your supporters further in this document.
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The finish is at Bron y Feds Uchaf, Rhyd Ddu (LL54 7YS​)
REGISTRATION INFO
HOW TO GET THERE
Registration is at Bron y Feds Uchaf, Rhyd Ddu on 11th October between 1400 - 2200. There is no registration available on the 12th October before the start.
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The postcode for Registration is (LL54 7YS).
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The google pin for this location is HERE. The what 3 words location for this is frowns.expecting.wins.
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REGISTRATION STEPS
1) Bib Number - You will receive your bib number through the post 1-2 weeks before the event. International participants will need to collect their race packs in person on 11th October from the information/help desk at Registration. Please bring your bib number and envelope to Registration.
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2) Disclaimer - Show your online disclaimer confirmation email at the entrance of Registration and receive your S2S: Yr Wyddfa Rat Rag. You can complete the online disclaimer now HERE, it takes 2 mins and we encourage you to do this now and certainly well in advance of the event to avoid any delays for you on the day.
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3) Mandatory Kit Check - We will need to see the some specific key items to allow you to proceed, please see the Kit List section for a list of the kit we will be checking at Registration and ensure you bring all of the items to Registration with you.​
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4) Tracker Collection - You will be issued your tracker from Open Tracking. There will be a link available on the website closer to the event for you to share with friends/family so they can track your progress over the weekend. There is some important guidance on the trackers below so please do ensure you read this.
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5) T-shirt collection - If you have pre-ordered a t-shirt, you will be able to collect this from the onsite Rat Race Store.
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Registration complete!
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It is REALLY important that you ensure anyone watching at home knows this, for their own peace of mind and for our own safety systems. Experience shows that if someone watching at home does not understand this, they can sometimes unwittingly commence full rescue missions by panicking, calling in the cavalry and sparking confusion for us as organisers. As such, it really is a very important point to note.
You must return this device at the end of the event there is a charge levied of £150 for any tracker that is not returned.
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We recommend that people use the Open Tracking website and not the app for the best experience. The tracking link can be found on the Sea to Summit: Ben Nevis website closer to the event.
TRACKER
You will be issued with your Tracker from Open Tracking at Registration.
The trackers rely on GSM & satellite signal to report, (which is generally very good across a lot of our route) but there is a delay on tracking. Sometimes, our team back at base will increase or decrease the reporting frequency, so those watching at home will sometimes not see your dot moving, or see you moving very slowly. Or they may see you adrift from others in the group (for example if you have not turned the tracker on!).
PRE-ORDERED T-SHIRTS
If you pre-ordered an 2024 event tech t-shirt, these will be available for collection in the Rat Race Store in the Registration Hall.
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KEY INFORMATION
KEY LOCATIONS
Registration: Friday 11th October 1400 - 2200 Bron y Feds Uchaf, Rhyd Ddu (LL54 7YS). The google pin for this location is HERE. The what 3 words location for this is frowns.expecting.wins.
Start: Fort Belan, Llanwnda, Caernarfon LL54 5TP
Finish: Bron y Feds Uchaf, Rhyd Ddu (LL54 7YS​)
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START WAVES
There are three waves departing 15 minutes apart. A waved start is essential to ensure an enjoyable running experience for everyone without overcrowding the route near the beginning.
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Wave 1 time: 0600
Wave 2 time: 0615
Wave 3 time: 0630
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GETTING TO THE START LINE
If you have purchased a ticket, you can hop on our bus shuttle to the start line (departing the finish line parking area at 0500) or you can get dropped off by a supporter or taxi. Whilst the start line is on private land, supporters will have permission and access to drop off at start location on the morning of the event, gates will be open so please do not panic if looking up the location online. Please note: supporters can only drop off, they will be unable to park.
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IMPORTANT NOTE FOR ANYONE BEING DROPPED AT THE START BY SUPPORTERS
If you are looking to access the START at Fort Belan for start line drop off only (NO ALL DAY PARKING) you can use the following two two w3w addresses:
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The first will get youto the gate to access the private road. This is by the airfield. ///estate.whips.ruling.
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The second is 2 miles along the private road where you will be able to drop off near the start line: ///shuttle.displays.decking.
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Anyone navigating to the start in Fort Belan needs to be aware that car navigation systems will often send them around the other side of the estuary, so they will need to navigate to the first address before making their way to Fort Belan to avoid ending up on the other side.
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​FINISH LINE PARKING & BUS SHUTTLE
You can park at our finish location (£10 per car) on Saturday our shuttle bus service is SOLD OUT. Alternatively you can have your supporter drop you off at the startline.
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If you do not have a way to get to the start/back from the finish we recommend booking a local taxi. We can recommend CK cabs who we have used on past events, bookable by calling 01286 871768.
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There will be a drop off and pick up service available for supporters to pick you up from the finish area (15 minute waiting time) without the need for parking pass.
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You can purchase the parking HERE
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The shuttle will depart from Bron y Feds Uchaf, Rhyd Ddu (LL54 7YS) at 0500. The google pin for this location is HERE. The what 3 words location for this is frowns.expecting.wins.
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You must show your email confirmation at the entrance of the car park. We strongly recommend you screenshot this email confirmation on your phone ahead of arriving to speed up the entry process and avoid any delays for you if internet/signal is limited.
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ACCOMODATION
There are lots of local options available. If you want to stay near the startline we would recommend booking accommodation in the neighbouring town of Caernarfon. If you were looking for accommodation near the finish there are a few local B&Bs in Rhyd-Ddu or you’re up for a drive there are more options available in Beddgelert or Llanberis.
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MANDATORY KIT LIST
Some of the kit listed is to help you have a safe experience and have the best chance of finishing. Some of this kit is to ensure that if you are unable to continue without our assistance then we can be confident of you having the level of equipment required to keep you as comfortable as possible whilst you wait for that assistance. Spot checks are carried out throughout the event and you will not be able to continue if you are found to not be carrying the requisite items.
MANDATORY KIT LIST
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Trail running shoes
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Running pack/vest or other appropriate method of carrying your kit. We recommend our Great Glen bag that is tried and tested!
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Hydration bladder or bottles with a capacity of at least 1L. We will increase this is 2L if the forecast is hot and dry.
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Snacks or sports nutrition totalling a minimum of 400kcals on you at all times as emergency supplies.
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Hat or buff, a Rat Rag is suitable
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Gloves
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Survival bag, NOT blanket - BUY HERE
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Whistle - BUY HERE
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Reusable cup suitable for hot drinks at Pit Stops - BUY HERE
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Waterproof Jacket with TAPED OR WELDED SEAMS as a minimum standard - BUY HERE
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Full leg cover such as leggings (they can be the ones you are running in)
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Basic first aid kit containing at least a roller bandage, paracetamol, assorted adhesive dressings, sterile absorbent materials such as gauze to compress bleeding wounds
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Fully charged phone
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Headtorch (and spare batteries)
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Method of payment (card/cash/apple pay)
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GPS Tracker (picked up at Registration)​
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Waterproof leg cover
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Thermal mid layer
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​CHANGES TO KIT LIST
IF THERE ARE ANY CHANGES FOR THE EVENT THIS WILL BE COMMUNICATED BY EMAIL PRIOR TO THE EVENT​.​
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The emergency kit is important for several reasons:​
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It helps you to help yourself should you have a problem.
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We are in this together and you may need to assist others if they have a problem.
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In the case of an incident our Race Control and Medical teams will make decisions based on the knowledge that you all have this equipment.
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Carrying the kit is a requirement for everyone and hence provides an equal and fair challenge.
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It is part of our risk assessment process that is shared with insurers. Your insurance may be invalid if you do not follow our advice.
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If your lack of kit preparation contributes to making an incident more serious, then you may be avoidably drawing resources from our medical team and the emergency services at the expense of others.
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Without the kit you will be unable to complete registration. If during the race you are not carrying the mandatory kit then you will be disqualified and deemed to have not completed the challenge.
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WATERPROOFS AND BIVVY BAG NOTES
Our kit list includes a waterproof jacket with TAPED SEAMS as a minimum standard. See photograph of what a taped seam look like HERE so you know what our team will be checking. There is also a need for an emergency bivvy bag. Foil blankets are NOT acceptable as these do not meet the needs of having to survive when injured and immobile in bad weather while waiting for assistance.
REGISTRATION KIT CHECK - 11TH OCTOBER
In order to complete Registration and receive your tracker, you will need to bring and show the following key mandatory kit list items to be checked. It does not have to be event ready and we recommend bringing it in a big bag for life or similar to pass through the station quickly:
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1) Running pack/vest or other appropriate method of carrying your kit.
2) Waterproof Jacket with TAPED or WELDED SEAMS as a minimum standard (see photograph for seam example)
3) Waterproof leg cover
4) Thermal mid layer
5) Bivvy Bag (NOT blanket)
6) Personal basic first aid kit (see kit list for require contents)
7) Hat suitable to the conditions (a Rat Rag is OK).
8) Gloves
9) Headtorch
10) Minimum 1L carrying capacity hydration bladder or bottles
11) Adventure Pack - You will need to bring this to Registration. Open Tracking will scan your unique barcode to allocate your tarcker.
12) Emergency Contacts - these will be issued by email one week before the event. We will need to check you have these saved in your phone during kit check.
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You will NOT be able to proceed to tracker collection until the Reg team have checked all of these items. Please note the entire mandatory kit list is just that, mandatory. We will be checking key items but you MUST carry the full kit list with you at all times. The event team reserve the right to check you are carrying the full kit list at any point during the event.
OUT ON THE ROUTE
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WAYMARKING
You will be shown examples of our waymarking at the startline briefing. This is predominantly hi-vis ORANGE arrows with the RR logo on, in addition you may see large hi-vis orange and yellow information signage or race tape. This will always have the RR logo on, please do not follow any signage that doesn't.
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YOUR SAFETY ON ROADS
When running on public roads you should face oncoming traffic and travel in single file (on the right hand side). However, should you be approaching a blind bend or rise, carefully move over to the other side of the road temporarily. Our signage and marshals will occasionally direct you to do this too, please follow their instructions. Should there be two-way traffic we ask that you stop to allow the car to pass you, ensuring you do not force the car behind you into the path of oncoming traffic. If there is a path available please use it.
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THE ROUTE
At 33 miles and over 6300ft of ascent this is a beast! The route will be fully waymarked so there is no need for navigation. We thoroughly recommend you keep your head up not only to see the signs but to also appreciate the magnificent views!
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PIT STOPS
​There will be 3 Pit Stops at approx 11 miles, 17 miles and 25 miles. These will be stocked with an array of tasty small snacks, including hot drinks but please note this is not a full lunch provision, you should bring your own supply of food with you and use our stations as top ups! We endeavour to cater to a wide range of dietary needs but due to the nature of operation we are unable to guarantee there is no cross contamination. If you have a severe allergy we recommend bringing your own stash with you.
We do not provide sports nutrition products at our Pit Stops as these are a personal choice and you should have tried and tested supplements with you.
CUT OFFS
Cut offs are enforced and they are applied to your departure time not your arrival time into the location. If you are cut off you will be transported forward on the course using our sweeper vehicle. If you have supporters they can pick you up if you wish.
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Start - First Wave 0600 Final Wave 0630
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PS1 - 11 miles 1130
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PS2 - 17 miles 1330
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PS3 - 25 miles 1600 - this is the last Pit Stop before your ascent of Yr Wyddfa
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Finish 33 miles
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DROPPING OUT
Once you have started, if you wish to drop out of the event at any point you must contact the Race Team to inform them and return your tracker to a member of staff, even if you do not need further support from us. If you do not have your own pick-up option (eg a support crew with you) we will arrange to collect you and move you forward along the course. We cannot move you backwards. Race Team numbers are supplied at Registration.
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COURSE ETIQUETTE AND LIVESTOCK
Please ensure all gates are closed behind you and never climb over locked gates. This is to ensure livestock do not escape fields so please do not leave it open for the next runner unless they are right behind you.​
RESPECT
Consider the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors. Take great care when passing near other tourist walkers, not to cause them to take hurried steps to avoid you. Hail them and enable them to step onto secure ground OR that you pass around them beside the trail.· Leave gates closed and property as you find it and follow paths unless wider access is available.​
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LITTER
Please help us leave this beautiful part of the country litter free by ensuring you have a pocket ready for your on the move rubbish which you can then dispose of at the next Pit Stop. We will gladly take this from you, if you see a discarded gel or sweet wrapper we ask that you pick it up on behalf of your fellow #ratracer who we are sure dropped it by accident.
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SUPPORTER INFORMATION
SUPPORTER ACCESS
START, Fort Belan
You may visit the start to drop off participants and / or spectate as the start waves set off. You will need to enter the private access road via the gate HERE and then follow it up to the roadside parking HERE. Please note that this is for short stay parking only from 0530 to 0700. All vehicles must leave after the last start wave (0630) has set off.
PS1, Snowdonia Slate Trail car park
There is no supporter access Pit Stop 1. It is located at the end of a 3-mile section of single lane country road, much of which is weaving and potholed. This road is also part of the event route, and it will be busy with runners. We want to avoid the additional congestion that would be caused by supporters driving this road and so we request that you DO NOT travel to PS1.
PS2, Rhyd Du car park
All supporters are welcome to visit PS2. It is located in a public car park with many spaces and public toilets. Please obey all local rules / restrictions, parked within marked bays and pay any required parking charges. You can find the car park HERE.
PS3, Llynd Isaf
Supporters are welcome to visit PS3 on foot. Supporter parking for PS3 is located at Nant Gwynant car park, a 400m walk from the Pit Stop. You can find the car park HERE and you will find the Pit Stop by walking back along the route.
Along the route
There are two good opportunities to drop in and offer support along the route between Pit Stops.
Bontnewydd, 5.5 miles - between the start and Pit Stop 1.
Beddgelert, 22 miles - between Pit Stop 1 and Pit Stop 2.
Please note, we don't have designated support points at these locations. Please park responsibly and be courteous of residents.
FINISH, Private Field near Llan Cwellyn
Supporters are welcome to access the finish. All vehicles require a parking pass, you can purchase this HERE.
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You must show your email confirmation at the entrance of the car park. We strongly recommend you screenshot this email confirmation on your phone ahead of arriving to speed up the entry process and avoid any delays for you if internet/signal is limited.
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VOLUNTEERS & MERCH
GOT A SUPPORTER WHO WOULD LOVE TO JOIN THE CREW?
We're on the look out for some extra volunteers to help during Registration, man the finish line handing out medals and also cheer you all on at the Pit Stops. Volunteers help contribute to the amazing, friendly atmosphere you'll find at Sea to Summit: Yr Wyddfa and they have an incredible day supporting our #ratracers to boot.
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As a volunteer you will receive:
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£50 cash travel contribution
£100 event credit
A crew Rat Rag
Access to hot drinks/snacks/food
A fun day out!
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AVAILABLE SHIFTS
You can sign up to any available shift here and the Rat Race team will be in touch ahead of the event to answer any questions you may have and give you your briefing documents.
ANY QUESTIONS?
CUSTOMER SERVICE
If you have any questions not answered in here please do reach out to us on events@ratrace.com and our friendly team will get back to you as soon as we can!
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TRANSFER ENQUIRIES
If you need to withdraw from Sea to Summit: Yr Wyddfa and go through our transfer process this closes on the 11th September. After this time we cannot process any transfer requests. For all the information regarding transfers please click here.
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PAIR/TEAM ENTRIES
If you are a part of a pair entry please ensure both your details are filled in before the 11th September 2024. Any late submissions will be subject to a £15 admin fee to create your Adventure Pack on the day. Just login to your Rat Race account to add these details.