Question 1

What is the John McGowan 12 Hour Challenge?

Accepted Answer

1. The John McGowan 12 Hour Challenge is hosted by Athlone Triathlon club. The event is raising funds for three charities; Samaritans Athlone/Midlands, Infinity Friends and Athlone River Safety Awareness. The 12 hour Challenge will host a 12 Hour Spinathon and a 12 Hour Run or you can choose to do both disciplines. Every hour a new guest instructor will lead the Spinathon group with motivating and high energy music. Our runners will have the option of 3 different distances to cover in the 12 hours (1.6km, 3.5km or 6.7km. Or any distance you wish to do within our looped course within each hour).

Question 2

Where does the event take place?

Accepted Answer

The Event takes place in the Athlone Community School Retreat Road Athlone N37 Y985 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/M7fkHovjWzM7rkUf9)

Question 3

How do I enter?

Accepted Answer

You can enter via this website on the 'register now' page in the main menu. Choose between entering as a Solo entrant or as a member of a Relay Team (each relay member must purchase an event ticket). Once you select one of the above you can choose whether you want to cycle or run or do both when completing the registration.

Question 4

When can I set up my bike and equipment?

Accepted Answer

You can set up your bike and equipment on the morning of the event. We will be in contact with you on timings closer to the event. Please note there will be no electric hook up for turbos.

Question 5

Can I register as part of a relay?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You can register from 2 up to 12 members for a relay team.

Question 6

What time does the event start?

Accepted Answer

Sunday 1st February:
6am - Athlete set-up & Registration 
7am - 12 hour Spinathon and 12 hour Run begins

Question 7

How much is the registration fee?

Accepted Answer

€75 for Solo entrants
€55 pp for Relay entrants (each relay member needs to sign up on the website themselves by buying a relay event ticket each).

Question 8

How much money do I have to raise?

Accepted Answer

We would be grateful for you to raise as much as you can for the three worthy Charities. The minimum guided fundraising amount is €100 per person.

Question 9

How do i fundraise?

Accepted Answer

All fundraising is done through iDonate with a equal split of money raised going to our three chosen charities. Once your iDonate page is set up you will be able to share the page with your friends and family through social media/email.

Question 10

How will the monies go to the charities?

Accepted Answer

All monies raised on the iDonate platform will go straight from iDonate to the three chosen charities in an equal split.

Question 11

I am entered for the 12 hour spinathon, what do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

Please bring your own Turbo Trainer if you have one. Please bring anything you would need for a long day in the saddle we suggest (water bottles, your own nutrition, anti-chaffing cream/vasaline, a change of clothes, padded shorts)

Question 12

Do I need my own Turbo?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please bring your Turbo if you have one. If you require a stationary bike for the full 12 hours, please let us know. Please note there will be no power connections available for smart trainers.

Question 13

I am part of a relay team for the Spinathon, do we all bring our own bikes?

Accepted Answer

If possible, please ensure your Team uses the same Bike. This saves time swapping bikes on and off and ensures you are ready to jump on and get going for the next instructor. If your Team needs a stationary bike, please contact us.

Question 14

I am entered for the 12 hour run, what do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

Running Gear including hat/buff and gloves. Spare running gear in case you get wet. Towel. Warm Gear to wear between loops. Food/Nutrition. Anti-Chaffing/Vaseline. Headlamp. Plasters.

Question 15

What are the run distances i can choose from?

Accepted Answer

We have a run course of approx 1.6km, 3.5km or 6.7km. Or any distance you wish to do within our looped course for each hour. You get to return to the gym after each loop to rest and recover before heading out again. This can be done as a solo entry or relay.

Question 16

Is the run outdoors or indoors on a treadmill?

Accepted Answer

The run is outdoors and will be under lights during the dark parts of the morning and evening. Once you have completed your goal distance for the hour, you can go back indoors to the gym to freshen up, eat, hydrate etc.

Question 17

Are there Marshalls on the run route, will the route be lit up?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We have incredible help from our club members and our local communities will be there to support and keep you safe throughout. The route will be fully lit up.

Question 18

Do I get a break during the 12 Hours?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You get a break for 10 mins each hour to use the bathroom, refill water bottles, change clothes, have something to eat or interact with your supporters. We hope that you are back on your bike for the next Instructor at the top of the hour, or back at the run start.

Question 19

Can I bring my own food?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We encourage you to bring your own nutrition that you know works for you.We will have an all-day supply of fruit and water and donations of food on the day.

Question 20

Can my family and friends come to support me?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We really hope that your family and friends pop in to support you and the other athletes.We will have live Social Media updates throughout the day for your supporters to follow. We will also have some sweets & goodies for the kiddos!

Question 21

I’m injured and cannot take part, what are my options?

Accepted Answer

We are so sorry that you cannot take part in the day. Your Sponsorship is gratefully appreciated and will still go directly to the charities. Please contact one of our organising committee for your 12 Hour Challenge Merchandise. There are no refunds.

Question 22

Will there be parking?

Accepted Answer

Yes! There is ample parking at the venue, you can also park at the Athlone Regional Sports Centre and the Athlone Town Football Stadium.

Question 23

Do I need to be able to cycle and run to take part?

Accepted Answer

Yes! If you are taking part in the full 12 hours of each event, you will need to have a good base of fitness to take part. If you are part of a relay, please ensure that you can cover the specific distance you intend on covering. You can walk the run at any point you wish. The event will finish at 7pm.

Question 24

Is there food and drink supplied?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We will have Fruit and water provided all day. We are working on Sponsorships from our local community for hot food.

Question 25

I can't take part in the challenge, can i volunteer on the day instead?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! This event can't go ahead without the support of volunteers. If you want to sign up as a volunteer, please message info@12hourchallenge.ie

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