Round the Rock Marathon

Before you enter, please take a few minutes to understand exactly what Round the Rock is — and what it isn’t. This is a small, grassroots event organised by a really small team, with amazing volunteers on race weekend. It’s a labour of love, run alongside a full‑time job, not a corporate operation with big budgets and big crews. We’re proud of what we do — but if your expectations don’t match our ethos, this may not be the event for you.

✅ What You Can Expect

• A stunning, rugged coastal route, well marked at decision points and supported by friendly volunteers
• Clear safety rules and a focus on runner welfare
• Basic but functional checkpoint food: fruit, crisps, sweets, water, biscuits, squash
• Toilets at selected points along the course (these are not our facilities; list provided pre‑race)
• A GPX file to help you navigate if you’re unfamiliar with the route
• Honest, transparent communication before, during, and after the event
• An amazing finishers medal

❌ What You Won’t Get

• Toilets at every checkpoint
• Gourmet checkpoint food or tailored menus — if you have dietary needs, bring your own supplies
• Big start/finish gantries, entertainment, or luxury infrastructure
• Outside support, pacers, or friends joining you on course (you will be disqualified)
• Immediate responses to every query — I work full‑time, so sometimes replies take a little time. If you need to contact me, please email, not text. Many answers are already in our extensive FAQ.

🎒 Mandatory Kit = Non‑Negotiable

Applies to every runner — half marathon, marathon, and ultra. It’s not about the weather, it’s about safety. If you get into trouble, you may need to wait for help, and the kit keeps you safe until it arrives. No kit = no start.

🚷 Respect is Non‑Negotiable Too

We have zero tolerance for abuse or aggression towards volunteers or staff. Swearing at or disrespecting anyone involved will result in immediate disqualification and a ban from future Trail Monkey events.

💬 Final Word

If you value grit over glamour, challenge over comfort, and community over corporate gloss, you’ll fit right in here. If you’re after a premium race with every convenience catered for, that’s absolutely fine — but this probably isn’t the right event for you.