The day dawned with a crisp chill but beautifully clear and soon to be sunny sky. Race HQ for the latest installment of the Kathmandu 12/24Hr was Bendeela camping ground in the Kangaroo Valley, a magnificent spot for a getaway. But as I was to discover in the next day the valley is probably better labeled wombat valley, as I spotted only one kangaroo but at least 20-30 wombats.
The competitors in the 12hr were bused off early to start somewhere down the course. The hardy/crazy souls booked in for the 24hr made finishing touches, boxes and kayaks in place by 8am, for race briefing at 8:45am and a very civilized 9am start.
The team at Max Adventure had the organization up to its usual high standard, although noted this year Henry van Heerden had taken the Race Director reigns from Gary Farebrother – well done Henry.
The hooter for the start was a few minutes early, not that I was complaining as every minute of daylight improved my outlook for the challenges ahead. My 4th 24hr event and I felt very organized, I was worried though that given I was so relaxed before the start that I must have forgotten something – this fear was not realised. The race start was well paced, the usual suspects raced off into the distance. My recent additional running training was paying off as we headed out of the campground, up Bendeela Ave to the first checkpoint. Getting the first checkpoint reminds you that you are racing and satisfies� that at least I got one.�
SleepMonsters
