Estimated distances

A number of people have asked if we could post the estimated distances for each section.  Keep in mind these are only a rough estimate and will depend on each teams navigation.

Paddling:  4-6 miles
Biking:     20-30 miles
Trekking:  6-10 miles
Trail run:   2-3 miles

Plotting CPs with UTM coordinates

We thought it might be a good idea to throw a couple of good websites out there for rookie teams that might not be familiar with UTM coordinates or how to plot them. 

http://www.maptools.com/UsingUTM/

http://www.archronicles.com/3001.html

http://www.nwcg.gov/pms/pubs/475/PMS475_chap6b.pdf

The maps you will be using for the majority of the race will be 1:24000 scale.  This is the scale most common for navigation in adventure races.  This will be the scale that teams will use to plot the CPs (5 or less.)  A 1:24000 scale UTM grid tool will be provided to each team.  The trekking/orienteering section will be using 1:15000 scale but no CPs in this section will have to be plotted.  Feel free to use the forum for questions on plotting.

Race Accomodations

There are 2 hotels in Dixon, the Super 8 and the Comfort Inn.  Both are located just off Interstate 88 on the south side of Dixon and are a few minutes drive from the race start location.

There are also a few hotels located in Rock Falls which is about 15 miles SW of Dixon.  These are also located just off the interstate.
There are a number of nearby state parks that offer camping for a reasonable fee.  The nearest is White Pines State Park.  White Pines is about 15-20 minutes from the race start.

Mandatory Gear List

Biking Section

·         Mountain Bike

·         Spare Inner Tube (1 per person)

·         Tire pump (1 per team)

·         Bike Tool (1 per team)

·         Bike Helmet

Canoeing Section

·         PFD (USGS Approved Type III) per person

·         Paddle (canoe or kayak)

Gear to be carried at ALL times by all team members:

·         Hydration system – 70 oz. minimum

·         Folding Knife

·         Water resistant jacket

·         Whistle

·         Lighter or waterproof matches

·         Emergency Blanket

·         Backpack sized to fit mandatory gear

Gear to be carried at ALL times by ONE person:

·         (2) 4”x4” gauze pads

·         Roll of ½” medical tape or duct tape

·         3” Ace Bandage

·         (2) Safety pins

·         (10) Anti-inflammatory tablets (Ibuprofen)

·         Cell phone

·         Waterproof case for cell phone

·         (2) Compasses

·         Waterproof Map Case

Recommended gear:

·         Long pants or tights for trekking

·         Hat

·         Bug spray

·         Bike gloves

·         Sunglasses or safety glasses

·         Sunscreen

·         Change of clothes

·         Rain gear

Boats will be provided.