FAQ's

Why is it cheaper to enter the three events separately, rather than entering the Full Long Course Weekend?

If you enter the three events separately, you will receive a finisher's medal for each event (3 medals total). If you commit to the Full Long Course Weekend, You will receive not only the finisher's medals for the three separate events, but also the official LCW finishers T-shirt and Goodie Bag as well as the coveted fourth medal (if you finish all distances within the cut-off). Not only this, but you will also get the opportunity to be a part of the awe-inspiring LCW fourth medal ceremony, plus much much more.

How do I know if I'm entered?

You should receive an email confirmation; this can sometimes end up in your spam folder so don't forget to check there. If you're certain you haven't received the confirmation email, Don't worry! You can log into your Eventrac account and see all the events you've entered with us over the year. If you can't see your entries, email us at [email protected]

Are there age restrictions for event entry?

Yes. The age restrictions are as follows:

Long Course Kinder: 4-11 years

Swim – 1.2mi: 14+ years

Swim -  2.4mi: 18+ years

Sportive – 56mi: 14+ years

Sportive – 112mi: 18+ years

5k: 11+ years

10k: 14+ years

Half Marathon: 16+ years

Marathon: 18+ years

Junior Long Course Weekend: 14-17 years

Full Long Course Weekend: 18+ years

Please note that for the Sportive, athletes under 16 years must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian (maximum of two under 16's per adult). All athletes under 18 must have a signed consent form.

What is the closing date for registration?

Providing it doesn't sell out, the closing date for registration will be as close as possible to the event. This date will be published closer to the time however it is likely to be 1 month prior to the event.

Do you have a waiting list for late entries?

We do not have a waiting list as we already take into account expected cancellations when assigning a cap limit to our events. Once entry is closed, it’s closed. So book early to guarantee a place!

Can somebody else register for me?

No. For safety & security reasons you must register yourself and bring photo identification so that we can guarantee we are giving the right event number & timing chip to the correct athlete. This avoids mix-ups with announcements, emergency contact information on the reverse of the race number, finisherpix, and timing.

What is on offer at the expo?

The 2024 event village is going to be extra special. The expo will be attended by lots of vendors providing great food, drinks, merchandise and more! Thursday is a special offer day some come early to bag a bargain. 

When are the event packs sent out?

Absolutely everything you need to know about the Long Course weekend will be sent out via email and available on the event website around two weeks before the event.  This is to ensure all the information is as up-to-date as possible.  The event pack will contain live links which will help you plan your weekend.

As well as the event pack we will be posting information videos on our social media platforms in the week leading up to the weekend so if you are not already signed up make sure you do!

Everything that you will need for the event i.e. race numbers and timing chips etc will be issued at registration.  Nothing will be sent in the post.

I haven't received my confirmation email/event pack?

The Event pack can be downloaded two weeks prior to the event. If you cannot find these emails, It is often the case that they end up in spam/deleted folders. If you have checked these folders – as well as any other email accounts you may have registered with – and still can’t find it, just contact us.

When do I get my event number & timing chip?

These must be collected at the time of registration upon showing photo ID.  Check prior to arrival you have signed your disclaimers which will speed up your registration.

Is there an event briefing?

As well as the mandatory video briefing, which you can watch, there will be an event briefing at the start of each event.

Can I change the category of the event I've entered?

There are 2 options to amend your distances and categories. Up to 4 weeks prior to the event you will need to do this in your Eventrac account. Select View Booking at the bottom of your confirmation email. Then choose Manage > Change Race to activate the change. Within 4 weeks of the event you will need to make the changes at registration. There will be a £10 charge to change your distance and this must be done at least 4 hours prior to your start time. 

Any athlete that change distances during the race will still receive a medal but be classed as a DNF in the general classification.

I am no longer able to participate, what are my options?

Unfortunately, we are unable to cancel/refund entries. Refunds can only be processed if you have taken out the Refund Protect option when entering. Please note Refund Protect is a 3rd party insurer and LCW have no control over your claim. You can transfer entries to another athlete up to 8 weeks prior to the event through your Eventrac account. Please choose View Booking at the bottom of your confirmation email, then Manage > Transfer to Someone Else to complete. 

I've fallen ill while training, should I still participate?

Always check with your GP first. Make sure it’s safe to continue training and participate. Put all medical information on the reverse of your event number if it is safe to participate.

Can I transfer/defer my entry?

You can transfer your entry to another person, the deadline for this is 8 weeks prior to the event date. You can do this by selecting View Booking at the bottom of your confirmation email, then choose Manage > Transfer to Someone Else. We do not defer entries from one calendar year to the next. 

Where do I have to be and when?

All times, dates & locations can be found on the event websites under Event Info. Here you will find the itinerary. Please note that this is subject to change. Final info will be in the Official Race Pack which is emailed to you 2 weeks prior to the event.  

What can I wear?

As with all events, we highly recommend racing as you train – this ensures you are comfortable with your ability and know your limits. For example if you’ve never used cleats before, you may be surprised to find muscle fatigue in new places; previously unused muscles when cycling. Try open water swimming before competing; and don’t buy brand new equipment for the event without trying it out first.

Pre-Race: Make sure to check the weather on race day so you can prepare correctly and ensure you have necessary waterproof layers/breathable layers & sun cream. It may be worth bringing a bin bag to keep muscles warm pre-race.

Swim: A wetsuit – this must cover the torso and thighs and is mandatory for all of our events.

It must NOT cover the hands or feet. BTF rules state that the wetsuit must at no position be thicker than 5mm (Including where a patch-repair has been made). Non-triathlon wetsuits are not designed to be flexible around the shoulders and arms and will take on extra water so it is recommended you race in a triathlon wetsuit. You can purchase suits at a discounted rate from our official swim partner.

Goggles – necessary in all open water swims. Polarised goggles are recommended to reduce glare and increase visual acuity. It may be worth bringing a clear-lensed pair if conditions are less than ideal. Swim hat – the swim hat issued by LCW must be worn. If you wish to wear two swim hats, the issued swim hat MUST be worn on top. Timing chip – Timing chip must be worn on the OUTSIDE of the wetsuit on the left ankle. Gloves & Boots CANNOT BE WORN without a doctor’s note. Webbed gloves are not permitted.

Bike: Race Number MUST be worn on the REAR. A Helmet MUST be worn. Approved cycling safety helmets of ANSI Z90.4, SNELL B90, EN 1078 or an equivalent national standard must be worn by competitors. A CE mark is not an approval mark and should not be treated as approval. Helmets must be used in all activities when the competitor rides the bike: competition, familiarization and training sessions. The torso MUST be covered at all times. Gloves are highly recommended.

Run: Race Number MUST be worn on the FRONT. Torso MUST be covered at all times. We highly recommend wearing proper running shoes that have been correctly fitted to avoid discomfort during the run. We also recommend not wearing brand new trainers on race day as they will need to be worn-in to maximise comfort. Running socks will reduce rub and aid both shock absorption & blood circulation. They are generally fast drying and odour repellent. We recommend merino wool or polyamide socks. Post-Race: Of course if you want to look funky fresh after your race you should definitely purchase one of our T-shirts or hoodies available at the Expo. It is recommended you keep warm after your race to prevent illness & injury, so we suggest having some tracksuit bottoms and a warm LCW hoodie ready at  the finish line. A slow warm-down ensures your heart rate slows gradually and dizziness from blood pooling in the legs is avoided. We highly recommend compression clothing to aid with circulation, reducing muscle fatigue, and speeding up recovery. 

Where/when do I get my event number?

Your event number must be collected when you register. You will be given an envelope containing all the numbers & timing chips you will need for the events you have entered.

Where do I put my event number?

For the Swim, the numbers must be applied to each side of the swim hat and back of the hand. For the Sportive, the number must be worn on the REAR, as well as the bike number being placed on the seat post, and the sticker upon the helmet. For running events, the number must be worn on the FRONT.

Are there official photographers?

Yes - We use FinisherPix for our athlete photo's. Packages can be purchased at a discounted rate when entering or post event. Please not that due to the volume of athletes pictures can take up to 7 working days to be processed. We will inform athletes (via social media and email) when photo's are available. 

Is there lost property?

Yes. Any lost property not collected from the Expo will be returned to our Head Office. Items can be collected free of charge or posted out with the cost of Postage & Packaging covered by the owner of the property within 30 days of the event.

Can I use a personal listening device?

Put simply, No. It is very important that you remain aware of your surroundings for the duration of the race and you are able to clearly here the instructions of Race Organisers and marshals. 

What other events do you put on?

All of our events and the dates can be found in the Events section of the Long Course Weekend website.

Do I have to be a member of a club to enter?

No – LCW events are open to everyone! However, if you are affiliated to a club, you may receive a discount on your entry. Please contact your club secretary for further details. 

Can I enter just 1 or 2 events?

To get the coveted Long Course Weekend 4th medal you will need to complete all three events at their longest distances and enter the Full LCW Package. However, because the Long Course Weekend is made up of three separate events, you also have the option to enter these individually: Yorkshire Dales Swim, Yorkshire Dales Sportive and Yorkshire Dales Marathon. You can enter as many of these as you wish and at any distance, but remember; to get the Long Course Weekend medal you must register for (and complete!) the Long Course Weekend, not just the three individual events.

What can I wear?

Wetsuits are mandatory for all of our events and must cover the torso & thighs. It must NOT cover the hands and feet. BTF rules state that the wetsuit must, at no position, be thicker than 5mm (including where a patch-repair has been made). Non-triathlon wetsuits are not designed to be flexible around the shoulders and arms and will take on extra water so it is recommended you race in a triathlon wetsuit. You can purchase one at a discounted rate from our official swim partner. Goggles are necessary in all open water swims. Polarised goggles are recommended to reduce glare and increase visual acuity. It may be worth bringing a clear-lensed pair if conditions are less than ideal. The swim hat issued by Long Course Weekend must be worn. If you wish to wear two swim hats, the issued swim hat MUST be worn on top and be fully visible. Your timing chip must be worn on the OUTSIDE of the wetsuit and on the left ankle. Gloves & Boots CANNOT BE WORN without a doctor’s note. Webbed gloves are not permitted.

What stroke can I use?

We only allow Front Facing Strokes. If you are on your back, swim safety will assume your in trouble and take you out of the water.

What safety measures are in place?

There is a fully qualified & professional swim safety team present in the water, with jet ski's and motor boats, to ensure a quick response to any situation. The water safety team will be in the water half an hour before race start up until the last athlete exits the water. This allows for acclimatisation before the race start.

Is there a cut-off?

Both 2.4 mile and 1.2 mile swimmers will have 2 hours to complete their distance. Please note that there is a 1 hour cut off in place for the first lap of the 2.4 mile option. 

What can I wear?

Event Number MUST be worn on the REAR. A Helmet MUST be worn. Approved cycling safety helmets of ANSI Z90.4, SNELL B90, EN 1078 or an equivalent national standard must be worn by competitors. A CE mark is not an approval mark and should not be treated as approval. A helmet must be used in all activities when the competitor rides the bike: competition, familiarization and training sessions. The torso MUST be covered at all times. Gloves are highly recommended. Headphones are strictly prohibited.

How is the start organised?

Both distances will go off at the same time.

All athletes must be at the start line for 7am start. 

Anyone arriving after the last athlete has started will not be able to start the event.

Bikes must be road-worthy. It is your responsibility to ensure that they are. Our race referee will be conducting checks on entry to the start pen and we reserve the right to not allow athletes to start if tyres, brakes or any other parts of athletes' equipment is deemed faulty. Ride to your own ability and within the conditions of the roads.  It is mandatory to carry equipment to repair a puncture should one happen on the course.

What type of bike can I use?

Road bikes are recommended, however, you can also use TT bikes and Tri/Aero Bars. 

Whats better about a road bike?

To be blunt, what isn’t better!? Road bikes are exactly that; bikes which are designed for use on the road. They typically feature a more aggressive racing position; a high saddle & dropped handlebars encouraging a more aerodynamic posture with more weight over the front of the bike for more power. A stiff, rigid frame reduces energy loss to suspension and ensures maximum energy is transferred from you to the wheels. A gear ratio designed with high-power cycling in mind means you can put down power at close-to top speed. If you were racing a downhill slopestyle race, you wouldn’t use a road bike, so similarly, when cycling on roads, you wouldn’t use a full-suspension rock chomper capable of tackling the Grand Canyon!

Can I use tri-bars (aerobars)?

Tri Bars are allowed. However, you cannot go down on your aerobars if you are in a group. This is for the safety and enjoyment of yourself and other cyclists.

Is there any equipment I cant use?

Illegal equipment includes, but is not limited to: • Headphone(s), headset(s) or technical earplugs; • Glass containers; • Personal video recording devices; • Bike or parts of the bike not complying with BTF rules • Personal listening devices.

Whats available at the feed stations?

There will be water available, as well as sweet and savoury snacks.  All athletes are advised to carry two bottles from the start.  If you are planning on carrying your own nutrition then please dispose of your litter at the feed station.  If you can carry it full you can carry it empty!!  We are massively passionate about the area where we run our events in and anyone found littering will be disqualified without appeal. Full details of exact items available and locations of each station will be finalised in your Race Pack.

Will the event be timed with timing chips?

Even though the Yorkshire Dales Sportive is not a race, the Race Pack you will collect at registration will have timing chips integrated into the helmet number, so make sure it is secure on your helmet. More info on this is available in the Race Pack.

Is there a cut-off?

Yes, there is an overall cut off for the event of 5pm.  There is also a 12pm cut off for the first lap.  We do however reserve the right to amend the cut-off times.  Any athlete that will not make the 5pm cut-off will be collected in the sweep vehicle. 

What can I wear?

Event Number MUST be worn on the FRONT. Torso MUST be covered at all times. We highly recommend wearing proper running shoes that have been correctly fitted to avoid discomfort during the run. We also recommend not wearing brand new trainers on race day as they will need to be worn in to maximise comfort. Running socks will reduce rub and aid both shock absorption & circulation. They are generally fast-drying and odour-repellent. We recommend merino wool or polyamide socks.

How is the start organised?

Each of the 4 distances start at separate times. Full itinerary will be released nearer to the time. 

Is there a cut-off?

The cut-off for the all of the run events is 4pm.

I know this might sound silly, but how far is the marathon?

The Marathon is 26.2 miles (42.2km), and the Half Marathon is 13.1 miles (21.1km). The 10k and the 5k are pretty self explanatory, but for using the imperial system of measurement... 10km = 6.2 miles and 5km = 3.1 miles.

Will there be timing chips?

Yes - they will be on the back of your bib number.

What is the terrain like for the run?

The run covers an undulating course on closed, tarmac roads. The scenery and local support is spectacular.

Is the Marathon extremely competitive or can people of all abilities take part?

We have runners of varying ability and experience taking part - for many, it's their first marathon, while we also have elite runners entering. The cut off for the marathon is 6 hours so plenty of time to get to the finish line.