Mount Kenya Trust is so excited to host you once again on the slopes of our beloved mountain! For over twenty years, the Tropic Air 10to4 Mountain Bike Challenge has been raising funds to enable us to protect our country’s great water tower, Mount Kenya, and its surrounding landscape.
As anyone who has participated before will tell you, the 10to4 event is not just a race but an extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of this iconic mountain. As you slog across the upper slopes, speed down through the private and community conservancies, and make the nal push through the forest, you’ll see for yourself how the landscape is intrinsically linked to other wild ecosystems, as well as the agribusinesses, large and small-scale farmers, pastoralists, and energy providers in the surrounding area.
The Mount Kenya Trust works tirelessly to protect the natural resources and people which depend on the mountain. You may not know it, but Mount Kenya provides water and livelihoods for millions of Kenyans, and supports habitats which are home to a third of the country's 30,000 elephants (so you have a really good chance of seeing one while you’re here!).
Protecting this mighty mountain does not come without challenges, of course. Shorter rainy seasons, intense forest res, unsustainable water extraction and the movement of thousands of livestock onto the mountain on a near-permanent basis means that never before has Mount Kenya been under such pressure. With your help, we strive to face these challenges head on, and are constantly developing new approaches and strengthening partnerships to allow the mountain to ourish.
In the face of global climate change, we must map out a journey to keep our mountain thriving despite the increasing pressures. We are hugely grateful that our wonderful sponsors all understand the critical importance of this work, and it’s thanks to them, and all the volunteers, vendors, support teams and participants, that we are able to bring the 10to4 Mountain Bike Challenge to Mount Kenya year after year. Jamie Roberts, founder and managing director of Tropic Air, 10to4 title sponsor, sums it up beautifully: “We love the mountain for all it represents to Kenya – not only an iconic peak but also a lifeline for thousands. 10to4 is a key fundraiser for the Mount Kenya Trust and we are proud partners, working together not only for the event but all year round.”
Welcome to Mount Kenya, we hope you love it as much as we do …. Enjoy the weekend and the ride of your life!
EXTREME (HARDCORE+CLASSIC)
Distance: Approx. 73km on Day 1 & 60km on Day 2
Extreme, adj. exceeding what is usual or reasonable.
Held over two days, the Extreme combines both the Hardcore and the Roller Coaster Classic. This event will challenge the tness and technical abilities of seasoned mountain bikers and elite teams. Covering approx. 80km on Day 1, riders will face an elevation gain and loss of nearly 2000m with fast technical sections and single track all on Borana Conservancy. Day 2 follows with the Roller Coaster, a 60km race that has become synonymous with the 10to4.
WILD (WILD RIDE+CLASSIC)
Distance: Approx. 47km on Day 1 (TBC) & 60km on Day 2
Minimum Age: 17+
Date: 24th & 25th February 2023
Wild, adj. (1) remote, uninhabited place; (2) unconstrained action or emotion
By popular demand, 2023 will see the introduction of a brand new combo - The Wild! Held over two days it is aimed at those who are keen for an extra challenge, but are not quite ready for the Hardcore. On Day 1, the route will be entirely across the Borana Conservancy, while on Day 2 Wild Riders are expected to join the Classic or Rush race.
CLASSIC
Distance: 60km
Minimum Age: 16+
Date: 25th February 2023
Held on Day 2, the Classic is an experience that has become synonymous with the 10to4. Starting at nearly 3000 meters, (10,000 feet), on the northern slopes of Mount Kenya, riders will descend some 60km over demanding terrain, through indigenous forest and wide open plains, abundant with wildlife, down to the Ngare Ndare Forest at 1940 meters, (6400 feet) and then onto Borana Conservancy, nishing at Borana Race Village.
RUSH
Distance: 57km
Minimum Age: 14+
Date: 25th February 2023
Running concurrently with the 'Classic' on Day 2, 'The Rush' is a less arduous 57km ride but will still provide exhilaration for mid-level cyclists and those seasoned mountain bikers who spend more time in their o ce chairs than is good for them.
EBIKES
Route: WILD / CLASSIC / RUSH
Distance: See relevant section for details
Minimum Age: 14+
Date: 25th February 2023
At the 2023 Tropic Air 10to4, eBikes are able to enter either the WILD (two day), CLASSIC or RUSH events. eBikers will be competing in their own class and will be placed separately from the other competitors.
SLIDE
Distance: 39km
Minimum Age: 10+
Date: 25th February 2023
Running concurrently with the ‘Classic’ and ‘Rush’ on Day 2, the Slide is a gently undulating and pleasant ride, suitable for all. Estimated ride time for this 39km route is between 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on ability.
Thursday 23rd February
Noon-6:00pm – ALL RACES pre-event Registration @ Ngare Ndare Forest Gate (Ethi)
7:00-8:00pm – EXTREME and WILD pre-event Registration @ Borana Race Village
7:00pm – EXTREME and WILD Race Brie ng @ Borana Race Village
8:00pm – Borana Race Village gate closes
Friday 24th February – DAY 1
6.30am - EXTREME and WILD pre-event Registration opens @ Borana Race Village
7.00am – EXTREME and WILD Race Brie ng @ Borana Race Village
7:30am – EXTREME Race START @ Borana Race Village
7:35am – WILD Race START @ Borana Race Village
9:30am-7:30pm - CLASSIC, RUSH & SLIDE pre-event Registration/Bike Drop @ Ngare Ndare Forest Gate (Ethi)
10am-4:00pm – EXTREME Bike Drop @ Borana Race Village
7:00pm – CLASSIC, RUSH & SLIDE Race Brie ng @ Borana Race Village
8:00pm – Borana Race Village gate closes
Saturday 25th February – DAY 2 @ Kisima START Line
6:30am – CLASSIC, RUSH & SLIDE pre-event Registration Opens
8:00am – CLASSIC, RUSH & SLIDE Race brie ng
8:30am – EXTREME Race START
8:35am – WILD Race START
8:40am – CLASSIC Race START
8.45am – RUSH Race START
8:50am – SLIDE Race START
Sunday 26th February – DAY 3
7:30am – ADVENTURE RIDE Brie ng @ Borana Conservancy HQ
8:00am – ADVENTURE RIDE START @ Borana Conservancy HQ
8:30am – MINI 10TO4 Race Brie ng @ Borana Race Village
9:00am – MINI 10TO4 Races 1, 2 & 3 START @ Borana Race Village
9:10am - MINI 10to4 Race 4 START @ Borana Race Village
11:30am – PRIZE GIVING MINI 10TO4 @ Borana Race Village
Monday 27th February
Full Results will be published on the 10to4 website
B orana Lodge is a Global Escosphere Retreat, acredited due to our commitmet to mitigating negative impacts and positively transforming the well-being of the planet and people.
All retained earnings from tourism are committed to the sustainable conser vation of habitat and wildlife along with building local livelihoods.
Photograph © James Lerwin
No1: A correctly tting cycle helmet MUST be worn when riding on any stage.
No2: Bikes should be t for purpose i.e. a MOUNTAIN bike in good mechanical repair.
No3: A full disclaimer MUST be signed and exchanged for your race number.
No4: Ensure that you are self-su cient in the event of a at tyre, other technical or personal items. Cycling gloves, padded shorts, water bottle, cycle pump, spare tubes, cycle repair tools, mobile phone and sunscreen are considered ESSENTIAL items. Please carry your phone!
No5: Ride of way – This concept applies to all mountain bikers around the world. If you are walking on a section because it is too technical, or you are tired, you must give way to those riding. If you are behind someone pushing, simply ask them for ride of way.
No6: Give way – If there is a faster rider behind you, nd a safe place to let them pass. Shortcuts are not permitted.
No7: O ensive language is prohibited.
No8: Disquali cations & Penalties - Riders may be disquali ed at the discretion of the organisers for any one or more of the following reasons including, but not limited to: Riding at any point on any stage without a helmet, bad sportsmanship or malicious behaviour and/or damaging the environment.
No9: Membership of AMREF - the Flying Doctor - is highly recommended. Any medical costs must be covered by the participant, as part of the signed disclaimer.
No10: Attach you bike number to the FRONT of your bike and do not swap bikes.
No11: If riding an e-bike please note max. battery size is 500 Watt hour, max. motor size 250 Watts and the battery will be sealed onto the bike at the start.
Notes:
Critical junctions are manned by marshals wearing high-vis vests, minor junctions are marked with signs and/or white chalk arrows, white chalk blobs or tape to guide you. There is a motorcycle route opener, motorcycle roving monitors and a sweeper vehicle with a medic.
Beware of tra c on public roads, especially at the crossing of the main tarmac road.
BE CONSTANTLY ALERT FOR WILD ANIMALS ESPECIALLY ELEPHANTS, RHINO AND BUFFALO WHICH ARE EVERYWHERE. Wildlife rangers will be patrolling the known hazardous areas and will guide you in the event of immediate animal presence. Their instructions must be followed WITHOUT QUESTION for your own safety.
Supported by:
Races for 4 to 12-year olds, looping around the elds of Borana, the campsite and through the river.
These races are all at Borana Race Village on Sunday morning. Just follow the signs to the MINI 10to4 START line. The Safari Simbaz will be on hand to guide and support our mini riders around the trickier bits of the course!
Please arrive in plenty of time, don’t forget a helmet, listen to the brie ng (parents too!) and enjoy the races. There is lots of space for spectators.
Sunday 26th February @ Borana Race Village
7:30am – Pre-Ride Registration Opens MINI 10to4
8:30am – MINI 10to4 Race Brie ng
9:00am – MINI 10TO4 races 1 2, 3 START
9:10am – MINI 10TO4 race 4 START
11:30am – PRIZE GIVING MINI 10to4
The 10to4 would not be possible without our incredible local partners and hosts. During the course of the event you will pass through Mount Kenya National Park and Reserve, Kisima Farm, Marania Farm, Ol Donyo Farm, Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve and Borana Conservancy.
The event opens up wildlife areas that are usually public or private conservation areas. We pay a portion of the funds raised to Borana Conservancy and a portion to Ngare Ndare Forest Trust for their projects, but it is a fraction of the true value of access to these protected areas, with signi cant rhino and elephant populations. The Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Forest Service not only waive entry fees, they help with security while you are on your bikes, because of the direct and indirect support Mount Kenya Trust gives them throughout the year. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy also kindly helping us in a number of di erent ways including security and medical assistance. .
All of the farms, conservancies and Reserves and the Mount Kenya Trust deploy their security and maintenance teams along the route before and during the event to ensure your safety.
Tropic Air, our headline sponsor, will also be looking out for you from above. They make a huge and valued contribution by sponsoring a helicopter throughout the event to monitor both cyclists and wildlife, while carrying medics to assist if you are injured. Dormans, our Platinum Plus sponsor, donate valuable funds to help cover the logistics of the event and welcome warm drinks at the START lines and Borana Race Village!
Osho Chemicals are on board as our ‘gold’ sponsors and a number of organisations as ‘Silver Sponsors’ o ering funds for logistic support. Thank you to Agventure, Equinox, Bayer, Northscape and HM Clause . We are also very grateful for support from our ‘Friends of Mount Kenya Trust’ category.
Equipment, including tents for our sponsored teams, for our o cials, bar and catering areas, plus chairs and tables for the spectator area is kindly provided by the British Army Training Unit in Kenya. Our pro t margins for the event would be scarcely viable without this fundamental infrastructure.
Thanks to Mawingu for the WIFI for the race control team, Rusty Nail for catering and bar, the Bike Shop for the on-site shop, Express Automation for helping with radios and comms, Gras Savoye for insurance, Tropical Heat for providing goody bag snacks for all competitors and Kiran Suthar for providing drinking water. Ever supportive Born Free provide us with additional vehicles for the media and volunteers for the event.
Prizes and water bottles have been donated to us by the Bike Shop, Kisima Farm, WildRides, Dormans, Cinnabar Green, Serenity Spa and the Born Free Foundation. Huge thanks to Jowaki Eletrical Services for providing materials and labour for infrastructure at Borana Race Village, the Start on Kisima and the registration area.
Finally many thanks to Cottage Hospital, Gundua, Lewa Ambulance and Borana for medical support at the event.
A huge thank you to Jemma Batten of Black Sheep Countryside management for managing all the entries and the website on a voluntary basis. We are incredibly grateful for the huge amount of time you‘ve contributed. And a big shout out to Charlie Dyer for helping our team check and map all the routes over many weeks.
All of our incredible volunteers who help leading up to, during and after the event – we salute you!
We have been working to protect wild animals since 1984. Working alongside local communities, we manage or fund conservation and animal welfare projects in more than 20 countries worldwide. We also rescue vulnerable wild animals from appalling captive conditions – releasing them back into the wild, or giving them lifetime care at our sanctuaries.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR WORK, SEE WWW.BORNFREE.ORG.UK
Whether you are competitor or a supporter, there is so much on o er this year at the Race Village.
• Rusty Nail will be serving food and drinks across the event weekend so stop by them to keep your energy levels up. They will even be up before Races start to serve an early breakie.
• The Braeburn Kids Play Tent is there to keep your little ones busy. Though please note they are still your responsibility!
• The Bike Shop has come all the way from Nairobi to help with your last-minute cycling needs. They are even running pre-event services so go check out their tent!
• Delia’s Ice Cream are once again here with their delicious ice creams and toasties.
• You may spot up at the DAY 2 start line but they can also be found down at the BRV on Day 2 helping with your ca eine xes.
•Medrine
-Lotus Welnness Spa will be o ering professional pre-sports massages and post-sports massage!
• And all the essential things too – a medical tent, toilets and showers!
To Nanyuki
3km
3km
