The Return of The Full Monty

Rob Howard / 21.01.2007

After a successful debut last year ‘The Full Monty’ is back for 2007 over the weekend of March 31st/April 1st. Outside of the World Championships this is the only Phil Humphreys organised event this year, and he says there is a huge amount of interest. No doubt some of this is from the many British teams entered in ARWC2007 who see the Full Monty as ideal for team training.

Those who took part last year will be keen to return as well, and the race organisation and course are the same again. The route starts and finishes in Shrewsbury and will take 24-30 hours to complete depending on fitness, rests, weather conditions, and any short cuts the teams decide to take.

There are 4 long stages: kayak, bike, trek/run, kayak with a transition between each and the event is continuous, but with opportunities to rest/eat/sleep at transitions, but there are cut-off times to encourage teams not to sleep!

The race is open to teams of 4 and pairs, and there are options to enter with a support crew or without. SOT kayaks are available for use, but teams can ‘bring their own kayaks’ though they must then have a support crew to transport them. Taking the supported option is recommended, but not essential.

As those who took part last year will testify it’s a challenging route if you are attempting to do the whole course with no short cuts. Going ‘the Full Monty’ is tough. And this is a challenge event, not a timed race, but is still perfect for early season team and paddle training. Given the wet winter the sections on the River Severn could be much faster than last year!

Full event details will be posted on the ACE Races website shortly, but entry (via the online entry system) is already open and getting in quick is recommended.

The entry costs are as follows:

Team of 4 with own support - £200
Team of 4 requiring support - £230
Pairs with own support - £100
Pairs requiring support - £115