We thought that we would put a bit of a document together about the activities and challenges that competitors can expect to face. This will in no way tell you where the course goes but it will help you prepare for the day better. First of all we want to talk about the mountain biking as you will want to train on Intermediate (Grade 3 Tracks) which may involve Steep slopes and/or avoidable obstacles possibly on narrow track and/or with poor traction. There may be exposure at the track’s outside edge. Typical tracks: Mangapurua/Kaiwhakakauka Track | St James Cycle Trail. The kayaking is most likely going to be a feature of this year’s event with NZSSARC Teams in Sea Bear Doubles and the GO-4-12 Teams in Barracuda Duos.  The paddling may be a mix of river, estuaries and sea so make sure you can paddle your kayaks confidently.  All gear for the kayak sections is provided, but teams can use their own paddles etc if they prefer.
 
We have put together a course that will challenge all teams both physically and mentally and have some good navigation challenges that will see teams using a variety of map styles and scales. We want to remind schools and parents that there is the option for a minder to support Junior teams (conditions apply) and all teams need to have a good support crew as this is an authentic Adventure Race and not just a ‘kids race’.
 
We also want to tell you over the next few months about some of our teams which include a team of disabled athletes and we will share with you all in our next newsletter about these amazing young people. But you are all amazing young people, so if you have a story to share don’t be shy and let us know about your team and the journey that you are on. You can do this by emailing us or via our website and our Facebook page.
 
We want to thank those people who are helping us make this one of the most amazing events that a young person can do.  So thank you Bluebridge for the great deal that you have put together for teams https://www.bluebridge.co.nz/index.php/. Thankyou Rasdex for the place prizes http://www.rasdex.com/. Thankyou Kaiteriteri for your support http://www.experiencekaiteriteri.co.nz/campground.cfm. Thankyou Lowe Alpine for the great place prizes http://www.lowealpine.co.nz/ also thanks Tightlines for the great LED LENSER lights http://www.tightlines.co.nz/. Due to the adventurous nature of the event it is great to have the support of Spot NZ.com http://www.spotnz.com/ we don’t want to lose our teams. Out there we know that the sun will be shining and we are glad that teams slip slopping and slapping and with the wonderful Skinnies sunscreen you are protected https://www.gotskinnies.com/. Of course one of the great things about the event is that it is the Nationals and we want to thank Multisport NZ and the NZSSSC for allowing us to run this event for you and organisations like DOC for allowing us to do it in your backyard. We are also very grateful to the supporters, friends and families who give up their time to allow us to make this event happen.