Wild Traverse distance testing report


I’ve been out testing the intended Wild Traverse course last weekend, which resulted in me cutting the distance for the first day and simplification of the course for the second day.
 
As first day was too much bush-bashing, we will add some roads in the middle to split the course into two parts and make it more enjoyable. Although the original idea is to push people into the wild bush and let them sort out how to get out, it was simply too much. We want you to enjoy it!!
 
A first issue for me was a heavy backpack. This was partially because I had lots of water and food, unlike you guys who will benefit from water points during the course and BBQ dinner at the Midcamp.  We do however recommend that you carry as much water as you can bear and have at least 3 liter blabber, especially if it’s hot. There are creeks later in the course but purification is recommended. Now, the important thing I do need to highlight – it is highly recommended for the event is to have fly repellent!
 
So, to the distances! Bearing in mind I walked all the way, carried excessive water, what was my average speed, how much elevation, what was the overall time?
 

DAY#1

 
Distance – 34km (all CPs), 28km (only mandatory CPs), and average speed 3.3 km/h, overall time 10 hours 30 minutes, Elevation 1500m. I’ve found the distance quite hard, especially with optional checkpoints.
 
 
 

DAY#2

 

Distance – 32km (all CPs), 28km (only mandatory CPs), average speed 3.8 km/h, overall time 8 hours 30 minutes, elevation ~900m (GPS switched off at the end, hence can’t get exact figure). I’ve found second day much easier to run, as it goes mostly along the walking trails or 4wd tracks, and so there is not much off-road.
 
As an overall conclusion, we’ve reached the ultimate goal to make an affordable two-day stage trekking race with navigation. To my mind, this type of race is perfect preparation for 24-hour rogaining, any expedition adventure race, and will really improve endurance, tolerance to the bush and navigation skills. 
 

Wild Traverse course breakdown

 

(please note this is approximate only)

 

 Stage Fast time  Slow time  Description
 Day#1

8 hours all CPs

6 hours shortest route

16 hours all CPs

14 hours shortest route

Approximately 35 km, 50% off-road, 50% 4wd tracks.

Shortest route 28 km, 40% off-road, 60% 4wd tracks

 Day#2

7 hours all CPs

6 hours shortest route

14 hours all CPs

12 hours shortest route

Approximately 32 km, 30% off-road, 30% singletracks, 30% 4wd tracks

Shortest route 27 km, 25% off-road, 35% singletracks, 30% 4wd tracks 

 

Serge 

 

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