Aberdeen based engineering and project services provider Apollo are our sponsor for the duathlon featuring a 16K mountain biking stage with a 6k run to start and a 5k run to finish.

The route will take runners circuit out in front of the Castle, then on a tough little 6k with transition to bike on the event field before heading out around the scenic Ripe Hill loop with stunning  views of Lochnagar, steady ascents and long descents! Then its transition time again before the final loop of the Wee Trail.

The Duathlon has a number of rules and regulations, which competitors must adhere to throughout the event.   We do try to keep the rules and regulations to a minimum so everybody can have a great and enjoyable race. Please ensure you have read and understood the rules and regulations prior to the event day.

N.B. To put all riders on and even footing this event is to be competed on a Mountain Bike. Cycle cross, race or hybrid bikes are not allowed.

Local Bike Hire available from Bike Station Ballater

You can hire bikes locally from our partner: Dan Whitehead, Bike Station Ballater

https://www.bikestationballater.co.uk/bike-hire

07552 169272 / 013397 54004

Cost is £30 for hire, collect bike at the event and return at the event.

To book, competitors can text 07552 169272 with their name, approx height and say “Apollo Duathlon”

We’ll reserve your bike, please confirm the hire by paying the day before the event.

Alternatively you can call Bike Station Ballater on 07552 169272 / 013397 54004

Bike Station Ballater
Station Square
Ballater
AB35 5RB

Bike Station Ballater – https://www.bikestationballater.co.uk/bike-hire

Apollo Duathlon Rules

The Duathlon has a number of rules and regulations, which competitors must adhere to throughout the event. We do try to keep the rules and regulations to a minimum so everybody can have a great and enjoyable race.

Please ensure you have read and understood the rules and regulations prior to the event day.

REGISTRATION from 8.00am

You will be required to register on the morning of the event collect their race pack. Please allow 10 minutes for this process.

There will be a mandatory final event safety briefing at 09:15, prior to the race start Participants must obey instructions from Event Staff and Marshals at all times.

TRANSITION:

• The transition area will only be accessible to participants and marshals so no spectators are allowed in the area. No glass items are allowed within the transition area.
• Transition is a very busy area with competitors racking, racing and collecting their equipment. Remember to be considerate to all other competitors. The flow of competitors will be managed by marshals to ensure the safest environment for all athletes.
• Your equipment should be laid out in an order that makes it easy for you to navigate the transition. Only take into transition what you need for the race as you’ll find there isn’t much space for you and all your belongings. Any Non-race equipment should be removed form transition.
• No cycling in the transition area. There will be a mount line just outside the transition area, and you must run or walk your bike out of the transition zone and past that line before beginning to ride.
• No Helmet no Ride!
• An electric or electric assisted bike is not permitted
• Anytime you are on the bike, including before and after the race, you are required to wear a helmet and have it buckled. Any competitor who unbuckles his/her helmet while on the bike, or who mounts his/her bike with an unbuckled helmet will be disqualified.

RUN ROUTE:

• The event will have a mass start for the First 6km
• All Participants should line up at the start area 15 minutes before the start.
• Participants should line up according to their estimated 5km time

BIKE ROUTE:

• To put all riders on and even footing this event is to be competed on a Mountain Bike. Cycle cross, race or hybrid bikes are not allowed .
• Your bike should be in good working order prior to the event.
• Drafting, or cycling directly behind or alongside another competitor, is strictly prohibited, as it is dangerous. You must leave at least 3 bike lengths between your front wheel and the rear wheel of the bike in front of you.
• This is an off road event so if you wish to pass another cyclist you must shout to warn the rider in front. Pass on the right of the rider in front and shout “rider on your right!”
• Headphones are not allowed: Any rider found wearing earphones will be asked to remove them and may incur a time penalty.

GENERAL EVENT INFO:

More information about water

Participants are expected to carry enough energy bars/gel/food to be self sufficient throughout thecourse.

ASSISTING OTHERS While this is a competitive event, do remember that it is for fun and many participants will be raising funds for charity. If you see another participant member or having difficulties, please stop to assist and help where you can.

RETIRING FROM THE EVENT: Participants wishing to retire from the race should continue on thecourse until they reach the next Marshal, give the Marshal their participant number and seek further instructions. DO NOT LEAVE THE COURSE UNTIL YOU HAVE SPOKEN TO A MARSHAL.

END OF THE RACE: Whether you finish the race, retire or are withdrawn at a check point, every rider MUST return to Event HQ  to hand in their timing chip. This will ensure the safe return of every rider. Participants failing to do this may lead to a Search & Rescue operation by the Emergency Services.

SCOTTISH OUTDOOR ACCESS CODE: Scotland has some of the best land access rights in the world. This event is being run in accordance with Leave No Trace Guidelines and the Outdoor Access Code. Please, take your litter home…..even your sticky gel wrappers!