Questars August Evening Races

Rob / 25.07.2003

Questars are holding 2 evening mini-races in August which should prove ideal training or perfect \'taster\' races for those taking their first steps in adventure racing. It\'s a great idea, which will hopefully succeed, spread and encourage more people into the sport.

The Evening Questars will be held on Tuesday 5th and Tuesday 19th of August and will consist of a 2 hour mountain bike and running orienteering event. You can do both or either, and as they are on a \'score\' format where you collect as many checkpoints as you can in the time, the races will suit all abilities while still testing stamina and orienteering expertise.

The start will be at the car park at The Lookout Discovery Centre, Swinley Forest near Bracknell (GR 877 6615) and after registering you can set off any time between 6pm and 7pm. All you really need are a whistle, permanent marker pens, mobile phone and a compass as well as suitable clothing and footwear. If you\'re riding you\'ll need a helmet of course, but bikes can be hired from the nearby Wellington Trek Bike Hire (Tel: 01344 874611).

If you register at least a week in advance maps will be provided, but any later and you’ll have to bring your own (Explorer 160 covering Windsor, Weybridge & Bracknell)

You can compete as a solo entry or in pairs and there will be two courses laid out – one for cyclists and one for runners, with each designed to use the full two hours. You can choose to run only, bike only or do a combined event and novice teams will be given some help with the plotting of the grid references. In the usual way points will be awarded for each checkpoint visited and you\'ll be heavily penalised for going over time.

If you live near enough and want to go along the entry fees are £7 or £6 if you bring your own map. You can get more information from Questars by calling 07071 224949.