Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my race pack?

All race packs can be collected on the Friday before the race 12pm-7pm and Saturday the morning of the race

8am – 11:30 am

Can I get a Refund or Transfer my entire To a Friend?

We have become aware that Race the Train is practically alone in providing deferrals. Consequently since August 2022 we will no longer accept deferrals for future races. In line with the declaration that entrants agree to, refunds will also no longer be provided as we are a charity run event. Please be sure you have entered the correct race before submitting your entry

Can I take my dog on the train ?

The Talyllyn Railway normally allow dogs on their trains but on the day of the race, dogs are not allowed on the trains dedicated for the use of competitors and spectators – this is due to the restriction of space in the carriages. The finish line for all races is located on Gwynedd Council school ground that does not allow dogs. Officers are likely to be in the area on the day of the event issuing fines

Are there Any car parking facilities?

Yes, there is a dedicated car park adjacent to the Talyllyn Railway Station and on race day there are directional signs ensuring a one-way system and avoidance of road closures.

There are no longer spaces on the train for the Tynllwynhen Challenge- Can competitors enter the race and make their own way to the start?

This is not permitted as the Rotary Club as organisers have gained permission from the landowners, for the private individuals to reach the race start by the route from the Talyllyn Railway halt only. Any other route would involve crossing private land without permission and so would constitute trespassing.

Is there somewhere to leave personal belongings ?

Yes, there is a dedicated baggage area in the marquee which is staffed all day. There is no charge for this service. Those participating in the morning races can leave their baggage at the start of their race providing it has a label with their bib number on it. All bags will be taken down the valley and sorted into numerical order in the marquee to be retrieved after the relevant race is over. Those participating in the Rotary Challenge in the afternoon can leave their bags duly labelled in the baggage area in the marquee any time from 1pm

How Do I get to the start of my race?

For the Tynllwynhen Challenge there is only one way and that is by train.
For the Dolgoch and Quarry Challenges there is the option of being taken up to the start of these races by either train (extra fee) or coach (included), times for both can be found in registration when collecting race packs.
The Rotary Challenge starts and finishes near to the Wharf Station of the Talyllyn Railway in Tywyn and within yards of the dedicated car park.

Do they accept card in the marquee?

We accept card & cash at the marquee.

What roads are closed on the day of the race?

These are the road closures exhibited on lampposts at strategic points in the town:
7.00am till 7.00pm - Neptune Road from the junction with Cambrian Square to the junction with Brynhyfryd Road.
7.00am till 7.00pm - Neptune Road from the junction with Brynhyfryd Road to the junction with Cambrian Road and the car park at Talyllyn Railway.
11.00am till 5.30pm - Lovers Lane from the junction with the A493 to the junction with Ty Mawr Farm.
9.00am till 7.00pm - Ffordd Eglwys Bach at the junction of National Street to the entrance with the car park.
9.00am till 7.00pm - Ffordd Alban from the junction with National Street to the junction with Faenol Avenue.
9.00am till 7.00pm - Frankwell Street from the junction with National Street to the junction with Ffordd Cadfan (old Fire Station).
9.00am till 7.00pm - Red Lion Street from the junction with Maengwyn Street.
1.00pm till 3.00pm – A493 road from the Co-op car park exit to the junction with Ffordd Cadfan.

In addition to the above there is a rolling road-block along the A493 through the town and out as far as the cemetery following the start of the Rotary Challenge at 2.05pm. until the runners have turned off the main road – about 15 minutes or so.

I have entered but haven’t received confirmation. Who do I contact?

Please send an e-mail to racethetraintywyn@gmail,com quoting your name and which race you have entered and then we will arrange for a duplicate confirmation to be sent.