Questars Race 2

---

The 5 C's of Adventure Racing

David Hunt (Questars) / 03.06.2009

The second sell out event in the Likeys 2009 questars Adventure Race Series took place on a gloriously sunny day in the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park on Saturday 30 May.
At the pre race briefing teams were welcomed and advised that they had a real treat ahead with the classic 5 C's of adventure racing available in spades, with lots of Challenge and Competition – as the surrounding hills and full hall of expectant teams testified.

With 36 optional checkpoints to choose from there was a great Choice for teams who were able to make their own route choices to match their strengths. These checkpoints had been specially sited to maximise the opportunity for teams to see the best of the surrounding wonderful Countryside and gain many spectacular views.

And finally the all important Camaraderie of adventure racing was clear as team mates were encouraged to help each other and cheer on other teams as they passed each other around the course.

Soon pre-event nerves were forgotten as teams started under the big yellow arch and received the key Checkpoint card. This revealed the value of each of the checkpoints and which three of the trail run and mountain bike checkpoints did not exist. Some quick revisions of routes took place and teams resolved that it was worth going to the top of some of the hills to pick up the highest value checkpoints. There were plenty of closer checkpoints too so that all comers were able to devise a course that suited their experience and stamina.

The sunny conditions and warm temperatures were quite a factor. The strong breeze was very welcome. As was the shade and cooling waters of the tranquil Monmouthshire and Brecon canal that provided the venue for the kayaking stage of the event. With five canal checkpoints to the east of the kayak transition point most teams headed off in that direction first to see how far they could paddle and return within their allocated 55 minutes on the water. Would there be enough time to return and go under the bridge as far as the lock to gain the sixth checkpoint?

Returning to dry land after kayaking is always tough as leg muscles need to get back into running mode and also the fierce sun could no longer be avoided. Some of the nearest checkpoints along the rocky banks of the beautiful River Usk had the advantage of still being in the shade. There were at least four different circuits available on the trail run stage most involving some significant climbs.

The highest value checkpoint of the day was at the summit of the highest hill – or rather mountain - as 551 metre Tor y Foel was a worthy summit and afforded magnificent 360 degree views across to the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons.
See All Event Posts