Overall Event Format
The event consists of 6-8 hours of non stop adventure with 5 Key stages and has been designed not only to test your fitness level but your mind as well. The emphasis of the event is on teamwork and we have resisted the temptation to make it an elite event, as we would like to encourage everyone to have a go!
Mixed teams of 4 eager adventures will travel together through all stages competing against the clock and collecting time bonuses from the different checkpoints.
There will be no set route or order that the teams must complete the activities and reach checkpoints, therefore a cunning strategy with brave team tactics are vital.
Checkpoints will be placed around the course and it will be up to the teams to find these as fast as they can whilst taking part in the key activities.
The team that wins will not necessarily be the first team across the finish line but the team that accumulates the most bonus time points in the fastest time.
At registration teams will receive 2 vital pieces of information the route book and map of the area with marked checkpoints.
Using this information teams are advised to start planning their route and discussing tactics.
Event Welcome and Team Safety briefing
This introduction will begin at 8.45 a.m. in the main event marquee.
BlueSky Experiences will formally open the event when James England and Stuart Johnston, the course director and designer, will provide you with much needed inspiration and important safety information.
All team members must be present for the official opening and safety briefing.
The main event will start at 9.30 a.m. - you must arrive at the briefing ready to race – you will not have time to get back to the transition area to pick up kit prior to the start…. so be ready!
Registration
Team registration on race day runs from 7.00 a.m. to 8.30 a.m. – please make sure you arrive in good time as you will have plenty of things to do before the team briefing at 9.00 a.m.
Registration includes:
- Collecting Team packs.
- Completing a mountain bike and kit check before dropping them off at the Transition box.
- Medical form to be completed by each team member.
All team members must attend registration together and you must have your bikes and kit (from the lists below) with you to complete registration, please note we do not need to see your transition boxes at this stage only your safety kit and first aid pack.
Firstly you will receive the following information:
- Four electronic dib keys (SI-Cards) and wrist bands.
- Medical form to be completed by each team member.
- Any updates on the race information.
- Your competitor ID card.
- Team Number.
- Your team route book and map – one per team.
After collecting the above information you will then have to complete the medical form and hand it in at registration zone 1, before moving to zone 2 to complete the kit check and lastly move on to zone 3 for the bike check. Once this is completed you can take all your kit and transition boxes to the transition zone situated nearby the marquee.
Food / Hydration during the Race
All teams are responsible for bringing sufficient food and fluids for the duration of the race. This is largely down to personal preference although we would recommend you include high-energy foods, light snacks (that can be eaten on the go) and plenty of water and energy drinks to keep the hydration levels up and keep you going.
On Arrival
Please follow the signs to the designated parking zone, all competitors must park in this zone, please do not attempt to park anywhere else on the Estate unless given prior permission to do so by the event organiser.
It is advisable for you to arrive early to allow plenty of time for you to register and get ready for the main event. Car parking will be manned from 7 a.m. on race day.
For the car-parking zone simply follow the road towards the main Castle entrance and follow car parking signs, you will see marshal’s wearing high visibility vests who will direct you to the parking area.
Supporters / Spectators
Maps will be provided after the mass start showing key points to watch the competitors as they complete the course; the Castle Stable Yard and Snack Bar will also be open at this time of year for refreshments and light lunches.
Changing / toilets
- Competitors should arrive ready for the event.
- There are toilets and 2 showers near the registration tent and 2 showers next to Rik’s Bike Shed for competitors to use; there are also portable toilets at the team transition area.