ADVENTURE CRAZY PUB-TO-PUB BANNOCKBURN GUTBUSTER MTB
The Adventure Crazy Pub-to-Pub BannockburnGutbuster MTB Race forms part of the actionpacked Cromwell Summer Series that comprises this event plus two other MTB rides, a triathlon/duathlon, a half-marathon and aroad cycle race.
Participants start at Garston Township, 315m above sea level, and ride 1.5km on State Highway 6 before turning off onto the metalled Nevis Road. A further 2km of uphill is just an introduction to the gutbusting climb to the 1100m summit, past an historic ski hut, and overlooking the Nokomai River. Riders climb some 800m in 12km, a grade of 1:14.
Starting a long, gradual downhill and following the 4WD track only, at the headwaters of the Nevis River, riders cross some 25 or more fords, passing Drummond and Commissioner Creeks where past and present gold mining operations provide interest to the spectacular landscape. Special care is required on the narrow gorge sections.
Past the Ben Nevis Station and sheepyards (your only comfort station on the trip!), riders reach the Nevis Crossing Bridge, some 52km from the start and at 660m in height. From the bridge, riders face another gutbusting ride up 640m (gradient 1:12) to Duffers Saddle at 1300m, then another 8km steep downhill on a good metalled surface, to the Nevis turn-off. The sealed road to Bannockburn is an easy 5km to the finish line at the BANNOCKBURN HOTEL at 252m above sea level.
The weather in the Nevis Valley can change very quickly so take note of the following suggestions and observe the instructions of your support convoy staff.
The start at Garston
The race starts at the information kiosk adjacent to the public toilets and GARSTON HOTEL on State Highway 6 (see sketch). Registration is from 9.00am (please be early). Briefing will be at 10.30am. Competitors must listen carefully to instructions at the briefing, and note that an ‘Event Plan’ is available for inspection. The race will commence at 11.00am.
Information, parking and starting of the race will be on the east of the highway - the opposite side of the highway to the Pub. SOUTHROADS will maintain a temporary 50km/hr restriction on this portion of the highway. Riders are to keep as far to the left side of the highway as possible (normal road rules apply), and a traffic marshal will assist the turn-off onto Nevis Road.
If you have excess gear at the start, please hand to our Registration Staff who will place it in a numbered plastic bag and take it to Bannockburn.