Frequently Asked Questions
QUESTIONS? THIS FAQ WILL HELP YOU OUT
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Answers to all the burning questions you might have!
Is Trail Running for me?
Yes! Trail running is a little different to road running however – be prepared to do a little more work mentally to find your way as not all twists and turns in a trail race are explicitly marked – treat it as an adventure! All runners are welcome, we have runners taking part of all ages and abilities – all we ask is you bring a smile, a pair of trail shoes and an open mind.
Why Trail Run?
Trail running is probably one of the most liberating sports out there. The total freedom of stepping off the pavement and onto countryside footpaths is an experience that everyone should try at least once. We welcome runners of all abilities to our events and want to share the beautiful scenery that Jersey has to offer.
Is Trail Running Good For You?
There are many health benefits to trail running: Building strength, speed, and having less impact on joints than running on concrete. It’s also a very easy way of burning calories whilst having fun! The mental health benefits of being out in nature cannot be overstated enough also, particularly here in Jersey with the plethora of beautiful trails we have!
Trail running can also be a stimulating, 3-dimensional experience. Watching out for the different surfaces, steep ups and downs, the scenery, the peace and quiet, all add to an experience that is both mentally and physically challenging.
I am new to trail-running and I am worried about getting lost. How will I know which way to turn at a trail junction?
If a junction/turning is coming up, we pre-announce it by placing either yellow signs with black arrows on or red and white barrier tape on the side into which you’ll turn. After you make the turn, look for red and white barrier tape ahead of you at eye level. These are called “confidence ribbons” and are an indication that you are on the right track.
We also strongly recommend that you carry a gps of the course map for longer races, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the trails in Jersey. Vandalism–people removing or changing course markings–does happen and a gpx map or pre race research could save your race and minimise frustration!
Do I really need Trail Shoes?
Yes, you do – the trails are very technical and rocky in places and if it rains as it may do the rocks then become very slippery. Trail Shoes are the only suitable footwear for a race of this type – please purchase them and break them in in plenty of time for the race.
Am I allowed a crew or pacers?
The races are solo challenges, we provide a drop-bag facility for our ultra events as well as food and drink at regular intervals. We can’t monitor every participant on the course, however if a runner is perceived to have received outside help then action may be taken in line with the event rules at the bottom of the page.
Event Rules – Please Take Note of These To Ensure a Positive, Safe, Race Day Experience
| # | Event Rule | Reason For Rule | Penalty For Non-Compliance |
| 1 | No unofficial runners are allowed | To ensure fair competition, maintain race integrity, and for insurance and liability purposes. | Lifetime Ban of runner from all events at RD Discretion |
| 2 | Bib number must be visible on front | To easily identify runners for timing, safety, and organizational purposes. | One Hour Time Penalty |
| 3 | Follow the marked trail/course | To maintain the fairness of the race, protect the environment, and ensure the safety of all participants. | Assessed on a case by case basis based on intention and severity – Time Penalty / DQ / Ban |
| 4 | Complete the course under own power | To ensure a fair and equal competition among all participants, and to maintain the spirit of self-sufficiency in trail running. | DQ from race, and ban from future events |
| 5 | No storing supplies along the trail | To discourage littering, maintain a level playing field, and preserve the integrity and self-sufficiency aspect of the race. | Assessed on a case by case basis based on intention and severity – Time Penalty / DQ / Ban |
| 6 | Strict enforcement of cut-off times | To ensure runner safety, timely allocation of resources, and maintain the integrity of the race. | Assessed on a case by case basis based on intention and severity – Time Penalty / DQ / Ban |
| 7 | Littering is prohibited | To protect the environment, respect the natural beauty of the trails, and maintain good relationships with landowners and the community. | DQ from race, and automatic ban from future events |
| 8 | Inform organizers of withdrawal | To ensure the safety of runners and prevent unnecessary search and rescue operations, as well as for accurate race results. | Potential ban from future events |
| 9 | Minimum age on race day is 18 | To ensure participant safety and comply with insurance and liability requirements. | DQ from race, and potential ban from future events |
| 10 | No pacers permitted | To maintain the self-sufficiency aspect of the race, ensure a fair competition, and manage course congestion. | DQ from race, and potential ban from future events |
| 11 | Carry mandatory equipment | To ensure runner safety, promote self-sufficiency, and maintain the integrity of the race. | DQ from race, and potential ban from future events |
| 12 | Random gear checks | To verify compliance with mandatory equipment rules and ensure participant safety. | DQ from race, and potential ban from future events |
| 13 | No dogs accompanying runners | To protect the environment, ensure participant safety, and comply with landowner regulations. | DQ from race, and potential ban from future events |
| 14 | No crewing allowed | To maintain the self-sufficiency aspect of the race, ensure a fair competition, and manage course congestion. | DQ from race, and potential ban from future events |
| 15 | Comply with instructions from race management | To ensure participant safety, maintain the integrity of the race, and efficiently manage the event. | DQ from race, and potential ban from future events |
| 16 | No abuse or aggression towards staff or runners | To maintain a safe and positive environment for all participants, volunteers, and staff, and to protect the reputation and future of the race. | DQ from race, and automatic ban from future events |
Are all items on the mandatory kit list really needed?
This falls under my duty of care as race organiser, and I prescribe these items as runners are out on the course for a long time and the weather can change. If you fall over or get into difficulty whilst on the course, and need to stop, then warm clothing might be required. Even for runners taking part in the relay, marathon or half marathon events all runners will require mandatory kit items as the shortest leg of the relay is 10 miles, which if it’s a hot day or you get into bother is still a long way to run and our duty of care is to ensure that all runners are adequately equipped. Please don’t ask me if you really do need to carry water or wear trail shoes in a race – the answer will always be yes, and you risk not being able to start the event if you look obviously under prepared or a random kit check reveals missing mandatory kit.
Runners participating in trail races often face unpredictable and challenging conditions, making it essential for them to carry mandatory kit items for their safety, comfort, and overall well-being. These items are carefully selected to address the unique demands of trail running and to ensure that runners can tackle the course with confidence and minimal risks.
Trail shoes, for example, provide the necessary grip and support to navigate uneven terrains, reducing the risk of slips, falls, and injuries. Sun protection, in the form of sun hats and sunscreen, is vital to guard against harmful UV rays and minimize the chances of sunburn, heatstroke, and long-term skin damage.
Hydration and nutrition are critical components of any race. Carrying a water receptacle with at least 1 litre of water and sufficient calories in the form of snacks helps runners maintain their energy levels and stay hydrated throughout the race. Reusable cups contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing plastic waste at checkpoints.
Safety measures, such as carrying a charged phone with the race organizer’s contact number and having the What3words app, ensure that runners can call for help and be located in case of emergencies. A spare layer of clothing protects runners from unexpected weather changes, while a headtorch provides visibility during low-light conditions for those still on the course near the cut-off time.
In summary, mandatory kit items play a crucial role in safeguarding runners’ health, safety, and performance during trail races. Adhering to these requirements helps create a more enjoyable, secure, and environmentally responsible racing experience for all participants.
Is the course marked?
Yes – Our courses are marked to ensure that at decision points along the course you will be told where to go, however the general principle of these types of races is one of adventure so each explicit twist and turn will not be marked, so please don’t expect the markings to be the same as for a road marathon for example. However, as long as you do a bit of research on the route previously, follow footpaths unless indicated to do otherwise and pay attention to the signage on the course you will be fine – if you are unfamiliar with the course, or not from Jersey it is advised that you research the course and use any resources made available on the event page to assist you.
GPX Course Files
Round the Rock Ultra – Download here
Round the Rock Marathon – Download here
Round the Rock 1/2 Marathon – Download here
Double Top Ultra – Download Here
C.I.100k – Download Here
El-Classico Trail Half – Download Here
El-Diablo Trail Half – Download Here
Beast of the East Trail Half – Download Here
The GPS file does not open?
To access a gps file you will first need to save the relevant file to your computer. To do this right click on the download and choose ‘save as’ and save it to your computer. In order to view / use the file it will have to be imported onto a device that allows you to view & use it. Please Note-If you open the file on your computer it will appear blank / full of gibberish! It can only be viewed by importing it onto a gps device (eg Garmin Fenix, Suunto Ambit etc) or by viewing it using a computer program that will access the information. As you can imagine we can’t provide technical support on each and every device and gpx files, but Google is a very handy resource for this.
Race Registration
All runners (or a designated representative) to pick up their packs on the designated day where possible, I am a small team of one most days of the year, and on the actual event day I tend to be extremely busy and have limited time to deal with race admin tasks such as race reg – so your co-operation with this really helps to make sure the event runs smoothly on event day. It also gives me a nice chance to meet runners a day or so before the event and to chat and answer any queries in a less busy environment.
What foods and drinks are at Checkpoints?
On the aid stations for ultras there will be supplies such as coke, sweets, some savoury food and some soups on at least one of the stations, however runners are expected to bring enough calories to support themselves, with the food at CP’s being supplementary to this. CP’s at half marathons and 10k races are more rudimentary with water and some fizzy drinks and perhaps sweets.
Are there pre-requisites for any of our races?
It is a requirement of entry that all entrants for the Ultra events have completed a trail race, long distance walk or road race of at least marathon distance. The race organiser may seek confirmation of your race information. For the trail half marathons, and 10k races all are welcome, however it is worth recce’ing the course beforehand so you know what to expect.
Can I enter & pay on the day?
No, you must register using the online registration system on our website.
How stringent are the cutoffs (where applicable)?
Please do not enter the races where cutoffs are employed if you are unprepared for the possibility of not completing the race within the set time – cutoffs are strict, non negotiable and you will not receive a medal if you finish just a few seconds even past this time. Please do not put us in the awkward position of having to justify this to you on the day should you fail to meet the cut-off, as we are up front about this on the website and the briefing.
Why all these rules and requirements?
Every rule that is specified in our race info is there to either ensure the safety, the comfort of participants or to preserve the intended spirit of the race – each of the rules have usually been borne out of a situation that occurred previously and has been implemented to mitigate this. Essentially we are all adults and know right, wrong and the common sense way to do things – if we stick to these principles we won’t go far wrong!
What is your refund and deferral policy?
All other distance Races:
Deferred entries can only be deferred to events within the next calendar year, they cannot be exchanged for a refund, and neither can they be transferred to another entrant. Full terms and conditions are here
You will find the above listed on the registration page on our website, and all runners are presented with the exact details of the refund policy during the registration process. Runners must tick the box in agreement to this policy in order to register for a race. Quite simply we do not want anyone for any reason to feel cheated or let down if they need to cancel their entry. We simply cannot be more transparent than this.
To put it simply, if you do not agree with the refund/ policy, please do not enter the event.
We make the policy as clear as possible by making you aware of it and asking you to agree to it during the registration process. We are not in a position to judge every case on it’s individual merit. We can only have one completely clear policy for every situation faced.
What weather can I expect?
Trail Monkey races seem to welcome all extremes of weather dependent on when the race is taking place – therefore please train in anticipation of this and take all necessary precautions to ensure your comfort and safety on the day.
What if I have any medical conditions?
If you suffer from any medical conditions please ensure that you place a Red Cross on your race number before race day, and write your medical conditions on the back of the race number with a I.C.E. contact also.
What do I do in the event of an emergency?
If in case of an accident or a runner wishing to retire and no mobile signal being available: Either walk to the nearest checkpoint if it is safe to do so or ask a passing runner / walker / marshal to pass on details of incident and personal details to the nearest checkpoint. If you do retire from the race between checkpoints please contact race director as soon as possible to explain the situation, we do not want to be alerting emergency services when a runner is actually sitting in a pub. If you come across a runner who is injured or in distress, you must stop and see if you can assist, contact race director or inform marshals. There will be non competing runners on the course who will act as sweepers; they will be there to help.
What about hazards on the course?
The route follows cliff paths and is hazardous in certain places. As organisers we will highlight potential hazards but you must be aware that there may be other hidden dangers. Do not attempt to overtake on narrow / dangerous sections, please wait until it is safe to do so and please allow faster runners to overtake when safe. If you do not feel that you can continue, please inform a marshal at the next check point /contact race director / inform other runners. Remember it may be hot or windy or wet… so please take care!
Are there shuttle buses for your races?
There is no shuttle bus for any races, we are a very small race and don’t have resources to facilitate this – Here is the bus company website for the timetables, and here is a list of taxi firms with phone numbers.
Are there toilet facilities at your races?
As you can imagine, we are a small company and do not have the budget to facilitate toilet facilities at the more remote races. If we were to do this, the logistical challenges and financial challenges would knock to an increase in race prices. Think of Trail Monkey as rough and ready but a lot of fun!
Who is behind Trail Monkey?
Trail Monkey started in January 2018 – the mission was to spread our love of the trails to all and show just how beautiful our island is. The team is a small one most days of the year – Paul Burrows is the organiser, admin clerk, course marker, race timer, high-viz washer, volunteer co-ordinator, permit sorter, logo designer, website designer and general bossy boots on race day, so if he is a little slow responding to emails sometimes he is probably sat in a dark room somewhere rocking back and fore 🙂 He is of course joined on race days by a whole host of people who give up their time to stand there in all extremes of weather to ensure the safety and comfort of the runners taking part in the races, without these guys the events don’t happen.
Trail Monkey offers trail races, ranging from 5km to 10km, Trail Half Marathons and Ultra Marathons – our ethos is to include anyone who wants to be part of our community – we have built quite a community of Trail Monkeys from 2018 and we hope to make all newcomers welcome and feel included regardless of ability or running experience. We hope to challenge runners, in a safe well organised environment and see you finish our races with a smile.
More details about our community here and more details about all our events here
How can I get involved if I don’t want to run straight away but want to see what its all about?
For our races to happen we do need a bit of help with marshalling and the general running of each event. We do recognise however that your time is valuable so for races marshalled we do give race in reciprocation. To sign up to volunteer please go here and we will be in touch! We also have a Facebook Marshal Group here!
General Event Rules –
Please do feel free to get in touch via email here or via the form below if you have a query not answered above:
Charities
Over the course of 2018-2022 due to your support, we have been able to make a small donation to each of the following charities as a way of trying to put a little back into the environment we use for our races:
Jersey Bat Group:
Jersey Amphibian & Reptile Group
Action for Wildlife Jersey
Round The Rock Specific Questions
How far apart are the aid stations?
Water stations are approx 10 miles apart on this course: you are expected to carry water receptacles to carry enough water to sustain yourself between these stations and if it is a hot day whilst we will ensure we have sufficient water at the checkpoints to ensure your safety – it is your responsibility to carry enough water to hydrate yourself. We will also be going cupless, therefore if you wish to drink coke or squash at water checkpoints you will be required to carry your own re usable cup.
What foods and drinks are at Checkpoints?
On the aid stations there will be supplies such as coke, sweets, some savoury food and some soups on at least one of the stations, however runners are expected to bring enough calories to support themselves, with the food at CP’s being supplementary to this.
Are there any pre-requisites for this race?
It is a requirement of entry that all entrants for the Ultra event have completed a trail race, long distance walk or road race of at least marathon distance. The race organiser may seek confirmation of your race information.
How far is the race?
The race is a 48 mile race, however the distance will definitely not be bang on 48 miles, so please mentally prepare yourself for this. If you run the beach rather than the road at St Ouen’s and St Brelaide’s (tides allowing) you can make quite significant distance savings but it can get quite bumpy!!
More in depth RTR info here