Motatapu Speights Summit 50km High Country Mountain Bike
RACE BRIEFING AND KEY INFORMATION

New Zealand’s premier mountain bike event

IMPORTANT!
There are a number of things we need to point out to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience through this iconic route.

Every mountain bike competitor needs to read the following information before competing in the Motatapu. You also need to read the general competitor information – click here.

Please note that a race briefing will be given in the competitor’s only area of the Glendhu Bay Motor Camp at 10.35am on race day. Attendance is compulsory. The briefing will be based on competitors having read all prior race information sent via email and on this website.

Saturday 13th March 2010
[Reserve day Sunday 14th March 2010. All race timings will remain the same]

8.00am - 10.30am All competitors need to register and collect their timing transponder and race number from the registration area at Glendhu Bay Motor Camp. Look for the correct queue alphabetically by your surname and stay in single file as you receive your transponder & race number.

10.30am Registration Closes. All competitors to be in the Pre-start/ competitors only area.

10:35am Race Briefing, Glendhu Bay Motor Camp - COMPULSORY
Event briefing will be held at 10.35am at the western end of the Glendhu Bay Motor Camp in the competitor only area. You must be present at the briefing.

11:00am Elite Category start (gun start for elites only!!)*

All Elite competitors will be marshaled up to the startline at approximately 10.50am. A vehicle will lead Elites to the start mats and STOP. The lead vehicle will move out of the way & the race will be started by the Race Directors gun.

Sport Category
11:05am Team Ricoh Start and Business & Sport house team start
11:10am Sport Open Male & Sport Junior Male Start
11:15am Sport Master Male Start
11:20am Sport Veteran Male Start
11:25am Sport Open Female, Sport Master Female, Sport Veteran Female, Sport Junior Female Start

Recreational Category
11:30am Recreational Wave 1 Start – Expected finish time between 3-4.5 hours
11:35am Recreational Wave 2 Start – Expected finish time between 4.5-5 hours
11:40am Recreational Wave 3 Start – Expected finish time between 5-5.5 hours
11:45am Recreational Wave 4 Start – Expected finish time 5.5 + hours

For Sport & Recreational competitors your start time will be from when you cross the start timing mat which is approx 1 km up the road from Glendhu Bay Motor Camp. The timing mat is marked by two start flags.

NOTE: You must start in your correct category.

*Please remember that as the Elites have a gun start, if you start with the Elite field but you are not actually entered as an elite rider you will not have a recorded start time.

Category Placement
Please ensure that you place yourself in the correct category based on your ability (see average times for categories below). We suggest that if you are just out for an enjoyable ride then enter in the recreational field.
Please note – all categories are eligible for spot prizes.

Average Times (2009):

Mountain Bikers need to reach Aid Station 2 before 3pm. At Aid Station 2 there is 23km to go to the finish line. Marshals at this aid station will be watching that competitors are fit and able to finish the course safely. If it is deemed that you are not capable of finishing the course, race organisers have the right to pull you out of the race and you will be taken back to Glendhu Bay Motor Camp, when the Aid station pulls out at the end of the day.

Registration packs will NOT be posted out before the race. You will register, collect your race number & transponder prior to entering the competitor only area at the start area (Glendhu Bay Motor Camp) between 8am-10.30am on race day. As you enter the pre-start area you will queue up alphabetically according to your surname. Please look for the right queue!!

Attaching your transponder
Click here for instructions on attaching your transponder.

Lost / Unreturned Transponder
Should you lose your transponder tell an official. Lost or unreturned transponders will incur a $50 fee.

Race Number

This is how your race number should look when attached to your bike. Attach your race number to the front centre of you bike using 3 zip ties supplied to secure the number plate to your brake cables or handle bars.

Transponder return
Volunteers will be at the finish line to assist you with taking your transponders off. Please note only the transponder (not the bracket attached to your bike) needs to be returned. When these are handed over you will receive your official Motatapu South Canterbury Finance drink bottle & Yunca finishers key ring.

Essential race information can be found on this website or will be emailed to you prior to the event, please read the information thoroughly.

An updated race briefing will be given in the competitor’s only area of the Glendhu Motor Camp at 10.35am on race day. The briefing will be based on competitors having read all prior information sent via email and on this website.

Attendance is compulsory for the race briefing.

Click here to read the Directors race briefing. Please note that this briefing will be updated on race morning according to current weather and course conditions. Attendance is compulsory for race briefing on the day.

Registration packs will NOT be posted out before the race. You will collect your race number & transponder prior to entering the competitor only area at the start area (Glendhu Bay Motor Camp) between 8am-10.30am on race day.

Please click here for printer-friendly version of this MTB Bike & Gear Checks section

All MTB Gear & Bike Checks must be completed between 22 February and 12 March 2010 - do not bring your gear in early as it cannot be checked before this time. All checks are recorded against your name in our database by the retail stores. You do not need your race number. NO CHECK NO START!

WHY DO WE HAVE MTB GEAR & BIKE CHECKS?
The gear & bike checks are for your own safety and to ensure you have the gear to complete the course. While we cannot gauge your personal fitness level, we can help to ensure that you have the gear to complete the Motatapu course safely. Imagine completing months of training, only to have your bike break on race day and you have to walk! In the last 3 years we have not removed any bikes from the course due to mechanical failure, merely bikes belonging to injured competitors – in other words, MTB bike checks work! Please remember the following points:

Responsibility - When you are in the mountains you are the person primarily responsible for your own personal safety and appropriate gear. It is crucial that your bike is in a good condition to complete the race and that you know how to make minor repairs during the race if required (e.g. flat tyres & broken chains). There may not someone nearby to assist you when needed.
Weather conditions - The weather can close in and become freezing with white out conditions at anytime of the year in this region – you do not want to be stuck out there without sufficient warm gear if you are injured or have a mechanical failure.
Access - Most of the course is inaccessible by large vehicles so there is no quick way out of the area. The only exception is if you experience a medical emergency and in these cases it will most likely be a heli vac through the 111 system.

“Minimum gear requirements have been put in place for your own personal safety and with good reason – we are after all racing through alpine terrain where things can go pear shaped very quickly. The gear requirements are the same for everyone so there is no excuse for leaving it behind.” - Mark Williams, experienced Adventure Racer

Compulsory MTB Gear Check
The following items are compulsory and must be taken to the MTB gear check. Everyone is required to carry this gear so you will not be disadvantaged.

1. Base Torso Layer – we recommend a technical t-shirt made of quick-drying fabric such as Icebreaker Superfine 150. We do not recommend cotton fabrics.
2. Thermal Torso Layer – we recommend a long sleeved top made from a warm quick-drying fabric such as Icebreaker Superfine 200or polypropylene. No cotton.
3. Waterproof Jacket/Shell - we recommend a breathable jacket with a minimum of 15,000mm water proofing. (e.g. Marmot & North Face brands)
4. Personal First Aid Kit: Including bandages, plasters, tape, gauze, whistle and survival blanket. We also recommend carrying pain relief medication (e.g. Panadol) for headaches and electrolyte replacement powder (e.g. Gastrolyte) for cramps, along with other medications you might need (e.g. prescription or hay fever drugs)

Recommended Gear
The following items are recommended and are not required at the MTB gear check.

1. Padded cycle shorts – recommended for added comfort!
2. Warm tights – we recommend Icebreaker or polyproplyene tights
3. Full fingered gloves – we recommend Icebreaker or polyproplyene gloves
4. Warm Hat – we recommend a skull hat for under your helmet

“Ensure you drink adequate fluids throughout the race to avoid getting cramps and headaches. There is not much we can do for cramps other than give you electrolytes to drink, which is why we recommend you carry your own. Please also note that too much fluid consumption can also cause issues. Plan and drink appropriately to suit both your needs and temperatures throughout race day” – Motatapu Medics

Cactus Gear Check - Special Draw
As part of the Gear Check process the guys at Cactus are running a special draw. There will be 5 packages up for grabs which include $200 gift vouchers for Cactus gear & a Motatapu 2011 entry - just look for the “Gear Check Special Draw” box when you are getting your gear checked. Additionally, if you register for the Cactus newsletter here before the Motatapu event another $100 bucks will be added to your gift voucher - that's a pretty easy way to get $300 worth of fantastic New Zealand made product! Winner notified by email by Monday 22 March 2010.

Compulsory MTB Bike Check
The following items are compulsory and must be taken to the MTB bike check. Everyone is required to carry this gear so you will not be disadvantaged. To read about the MTB bike check in more detail see the bottom of the page.

1. Mountain Bike: Must be adequate for the purposes of an endurance mountain bike event, in good condition and be free of defects.
2. Helmet: Must meet approved safety standards and be free of defects.
3. Tool Kit: Must contain two spare tubes, a bike pump, a multi-tool, tyre levers, patch kit and a chain breaker that you know how to use. A speed link/spare chain link is also useful.

Click here to read more about the bike check process

GEAR CHECK STORES
The following stores are our official MTB gear check stores. Only certain stores can also complete bike checks – we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. If you cannot get to one of these stores by 12 March 2010 please contact us by 8 March 2010 so we can assist you in making other arrangements.

BIKE CHECK STORES
The following stores are our official MTB bike check stores. Only certain stores can also complete gear checks – we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

North Island Bike Check Stores

South Island Bike Check Stores

LOCAL BIKE STORE NOT LISTED?
If your local bike store isn’t listed here, please check with them to see if they are involved as not all store choose to advertise here – only in their shop window. If your local store would like to be involved ask them to read and complete the following information and return it to us by 8 March 2010.
1) Retailer Bike Check Invitation 2010
2) Retailer Bike Check Agreement 2010 (to complete & return to Iconic Adventures)
Please note this is for Bike checks only, your local bike store cannot complete your gear check.

HAVING TROUBLE?
If you cannot get to a store for a gear or bike check 12 March 2010 please contact us at info@iconicadventures.co.nz - we have limited space for on race day gear checks for those that contact us before 8 March 2010.

SPOT GEAR & BIKE CHECKS
We will be performing spot checks on gear and bikes at the start line, throughout the day and at the finish, paying particular attention to all place getters. Be sure to carrying all the compulsory gear with you at all times throughout the day. Any infringement may result in disqualification or removal from the event.

MTB BIKE CHECK FAILURE
Please be respectful of the mechanics – they are simply doing their job by following our instructions and ensuring your safety on race day. If your bike fails the bike check and you do not agree with the mechanic, ask your bike check store to complete a bike failure sheet for you so that you can send it onto Iconic Adventures. We will then speak the mechanic before contacting you as to the final decision.

There will be four aid stations evenly spaced along the course. You should be carrying enough fluid etc to get you through the race, however the following is available at each aid station:

Aid Station 1: (32km to go to finish)
Self service water to top up your Hydrapak or drink bottle.

Aid Station 2: (23km to go to finish)
Self service water to top up your Hydrapak or drink bottle.

Aid Station 3: (15km to go to finish)
Self service water to top up your Hydrapak or drink bottle.

Aid Station 4: (6.5km to go to finish)
Self service water to top up your Hydrapak or drink bottle.

For mountain bikers who are wishing to stop and self service, please move off the main carriage way so other bikers can get through.

Recommended for All Riders

Drink: There are numerous stream crossings and competitors in past years have safely drunk out of the streams. Fluid will be available from the aid stations. We will be using water from the mountain streams.

Food: We recommend you consume a minimum of 1000 calories. Please carry and consume enough to get you through the event.

At Aid Station 3, there will be a “Didymo Wash” that is approved by Bio Security New Zealand. Please respect our volunteers that assist with this process for both bikers and runners and respect the environment to ensure Didymo does not spread.

Didymo can form large mats on the bottom of streams, rivers and occasionally on lake edges where there is a wave action. Thick growths can adversely affect freshwater fish, plant and invertebrate species by reducing the number of suitable habitats. It has no human heath risk. (Bio Security New Zealand)

To view the Motatapu course map click here.

To view the Motatapu course profile click here.
Due to the improvements of the track by the Station Owners the total distance is slightly shorter that in previous years.

The course starts from the Glendhu Bay Motor Camp, 12km from Wanaka and 281m above sea level. The start line is up the Motatapu Road, when the event starts, you will be marshaled slowly out of the bike compound, across the main road to move onto the Motatapu Road.

The first approximately 7kms are on a no-exit, gravel covered public road (so you will need to obey normal road rules here). Approximately 4kms from the start there is a small river crossing with the option of a fiord or a bridge. Be very aware as you will still be closely bunched and the fiord and bridge may be hard to see if you are behind numerous riders. Make sure you don’t ride off the side of the bridge as there are no side barriers.

As the initial adrenaline flutters wear off, the work starts. You'll cross into the first of the privately owned stations, past the Motatapu Homestead and continue up the Motatapu Valley on a well-maintained farm trail. Please respect the privilege of being allowed to race through these three magnificent high country merino sheep stations.

The course climbs gradually over undulating terrain with several stream crossings, until topping out at 877m when you reach the 35km (approximately) mark. The course descends gently over the Mt. Soho and Glencoe Stations until it reaches a steep rocky descent down the Soho Creek into the famous Macetown Road, which is a gravel track open to the public, so normal road rules apply.

The Macetown track is a very narrow 4-wheel drive road with a steep drop off on the right hand side down to the Arrow River below. A mountain biker died several years ago (not at this event) on this road going too fast and not keeping left. Stay left, and expect to see other vehicles, including 4-wheel drives vehicles, trail bikes, and mountain bikes, both associated and not associated with the event. STAY LEFT. There is no road closure.

There are also multiple river and stream crossings over the last 8km. Depending on recent rainfall stream levels can vary sometimes reaching waist deep in places, but often if you look carefully there will be a shallower route across!

HIGH OR FLOOD WATER: In case of the rivers becoming un-crossable an alternative route over the Glencoe Station to Arrowtown will be used over the last few kilometres. Riders will be directed by marshals over this track if required.

As you approach the finish you will be directed by a marshal into the bikers finishing chute on the right hand side. The runners have a separate chute along side and on the left. Ensure you cross the timing mats so that your time can be recorded. Remember to hand over your transponder before leaving the finish area.

The course finishes in historic Arrowtown, where we have a fantastic finish area to celebrate your arrival!

Encountering Runners

It is highly likely that you will encounter runners participating in the event at some stage during the course. Please call “coming right” as you approach them from behind and pass them on the right! Please remain in control at all times and be especially aware on the steep down hill sections.

Course conditions will be updated on the morning of the event. Regardless of conditions on the day, you must be aware that there are numerous hazards that exist on course, including:

• Cattle stops
• Narrow bridges
• There is one metal bridge about 15km into the journey which will be very slippery if wet
• Loose grit for the first few kilometres
• Changeable and adverse weather
• Creeks (the little ones across the Macetown Track can be hazardous for tired riders not concentrating - lift that front wheel or get off)
• Rivers - please watch your footing when crossing the rivers in the last 8km. You will probably be feeling tired and the river beds are full of loose rocks!

• There will be distance markers every 2kms from the Motatapu Homestead onwards. They will show distance to travel to the finish - not distance travelled!
• Event officials reserve the right to remove any competitor from the course if they consider they are not capable of completing the event safely.
• There will be a cut off time for all competitors at Aid Station two. If competitors have not passed this point at the specified cut off time they will be asked to remain at the aid station to return to Glendhu Bay when the aid station pulls out.
• Bikers may encounter running competitors towards the last third of the course. Runners have right of way. Bikers must pass on the right-hand side and must signal their intention to pass by shouting "Coming right".
• If you notice any runners that do not hear you due to the wearing of music players, please let a race official know and if possible report their race number.
• Remember you are in the high country! It can turn from sweltering hot to freezing cold in a matter of minutes. It has been known to snow at this time of year so be prepared! The event route is higher than both Queenstown and Wanaka, so expect it to be colder as well. The water in the river crossings will also be cold.
• The 250m descent down the Soho Creek requires skill and proper technique to descend safely. If you are tired, in doubt, or don't possess the proper skills - walk it! Please stay left.
• Approximate median time for course completion is 4 ½ hours.
• There is absolutely no access permitted on any of the privately owned property prior to the event.
• No supporters will be allowed to follow the event.
• Non-registered riders will not be allowed on any part of the route or privately owned land.
• Please pick up all rubbish along the route. All food wrappers, drink bottles and other rubbish must be carried to the finish line and not discarded anywhere along the route. LEAVE NOTHING BEHIND.

PLEASE ALSO NOTE

• You will be in the mountains. As in any alpine situation you are the person primarily responsible for your own safety.
• All riders must keep to the trail.
• Dehydration: It is important that you do not underestimate the amount of water you need for the race. There are 4 aid stations evenly spread throughout the course. There are also other drinkable water available in the creeks along the way.
• All aid stations are self service for bikers.
• Participants must look out for and not harm or interfere with any stock or approach or take photographs of buildings and homesteads.
• There will be a tail end charlie vehicle which has direct radio contact with all other officials on course at all times.
• Be careful in the rivers - the rocks can be very slippery, especially when you are tired, whether you are riding or carrying your bike.
• Be careful on the downhills. Through the grasses you cannot see rocks, holes, juts etc.
• You need to have your wits about you during the whole race - keep hydrated and fed!!

It is likely that in any accident or emergency, other competitors will be first on the scene. You MUST STOP and assist any competitor who is injured or in distress, and then proceed on and report this situation and the location to the nearest marshal. In the case of a serious incident please endeavour to remain with the injured person and send the next competitor forward or back to obtain help. We have radios at each aid station, in the designated Queenstown 4WD-Club vehicles and in the Rhinos, which will be throughout the course. Radios will also be with selected bike mechanics and the tail end charlie.

Medics and first aid volunteers will be wearing high visibility vests with a white cross.

• If you need to get off your bike (particularly up the hills) please move to the left so others can pass you easily – don't just stop in the middle of the road!
• TAKE OUT YOUR LITTER! If you do this you are endangering the future of this race, and you are spoiling it for the other competitors.
• If you see a runner/walker, yell out “coming right” or “biker coming right”. Make sure you given them plenty of warning if you are able to.

This is a wilderness event and as with biking in any back country area there are numerous unmarked hazards. If you are expecting a sign at a pothole, a marshal at every water crossing, or tape on every decent, we suggest you may feel more comfortable entering a city event.

Previous years competitors’ have overwhelmingly stated that this is how they want the event to continue.

We hope you have an enjoyable and safe ride.