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The Challenge |
Stage 1 – Coromandel township to White Star Station (20km)
This is the technically more difficult of the two stages. The event, like the Epic, starts with a rolling start through Coromandel township. The rolling start ends at Driving Creek and the riders first challenge is the steep ascent to the summit of the Tokotea (380m) along the unsealed Kennedy Bay Road.
From here riders turn left onto the single track for the central ridgeline. The ridgeline gradually climbs to a high point of approximately 480 metres. Just before the highest point (500 metres) the Challenge riders take a sharp left hand turn and head down towards the White Star Station. This is a relatively steep descent and will require care as you descend. The final part of the track takes you parallel to the road and into the White Star transition.
In good weather conditions the 2nd stage will take the quickest riders 1:05, the average riders 1:30 and the slowest riders 2:00 hours. Add 30 minutes to these times if the weather conditions are bad.
Stage 2 - White Star Station to Coromandel township (24km)
From the White Start Station riders turn left and head towards the Colville Hill. This is a relatively steep climb on sealed road. Shortly after the summit riders turn left into farm land. From here it is a slow climb back to the central ridge line. Riders will head south along the ridge line which will bring them back out at the top of the Kennedy Bay Road. From here it’s an exhilarating downhill back into Coromandel township and the finish line.
In good weather conditions the 2nd stage will take the quickest riders 1:20, the average riders 1:50 and the slowest riders 2:45 hours. Again add 30 minutes to these times if the weather conditions are bad.
The course is 100% rideable in good weather conditions !!