Shimano Bike Buller Festival - EVENT PROGRAM by rapidascent

ALL THAT IS GREAT ABOUT MTB AT A PREMIUM MTB DESTINATION

event program 9 –10 MARCH 2019 I SHIMANOBIKEBULLER.COM.AU

WELCOME...

to the 2019 Shimano Bike Buller Festival. We excited to be returning to Mt Buller to shred more hero dirt for the 11th year of this revolutionary event.

With Gravity Enduro, Down Hill, X-Country, Slope Style, Kids, and Dual Slalom races all in action this weekend we hope you’ve got enough space to fit all your MTB bikes in your truck because you’re going to need every single one to race them all. So prep your gear, gather your mates and get excited for an incredible weekend of riding, relaxing and having fun at the 2019 Shimano Bike Buller Festival. See you there. The Rapid Ascent team

EVENT SCHEDULE Friday 8th March

4:00pm - 7:00pm 6:00pm onwards

Saturday 9th March

7:00am - 12:00pm 8:00am - 4:00pm 8:30am - 5:00pm 9:00am 10:00am 2:00pm - 4:00pm 3:00pm 4:30pm - 6:00pm 6:15pm - 7:00pm 7:00pm

Registration, Sponsor Expo and Entertainment open @ Village Square Riders welcome at the ABOM Bistro and Bar Registration open @ Village Square Event Expo officially open @ Village Square Saint ABOM Downhill race - walk, practice, seeding then final race run Thule Epic Trail 45km race start @ Village Square C D LOGO XTR Gravity Enduro all stages open for practice Registration open @ Village Square Kids Village Ride race start @ Village Square ATC Highline Slopestyle Comp @ Toboggan Slope @ next to the Village Square 16” Dual Slalom. Heats then final located next to Village Square Presentations for Saturday’s races @ 16” Dual Slalom course n o

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Sunday 10th March

7:00am - 2:30pm Registration open @ Village Square 8:00am - 5:00pm Event Expo officially open @ Village Square 8:00am Michelin Corn Hill Grand Prix race start @ Village Square 8:30am Race briefing for the XTR Gravity Enduro @ Village Square 8:40am Wave starts commence for the XTR Gravity Enduro @ Village Square 12:00pm - 6:00pm Picnic in the Park Festival open @ Mirimbah 2:00pm Wave starts commence for the DHaRCO Super-D @ Baldy on the Summit Rd 7:30pm Presentations for Sunday’s Races @ Mt Buller Cinema 8:00pm FREE MTB Movie @ Mt Buller Cinema 2019 Shimano Bike Buller Festival - EVENT PROGRAM

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COMPETITOR REGISTRATION All riders for each of the events must collect their number plate from the registration marquee in the Village Square before the start of your race. NOTE: you can arrange for a friend to collect your number plate for you.

Registration times - ALL located at Village Square:

• Friday 8th March, 4:00pm - 7:00pm • Saturday 9th March, 7:00am - 12:00am and 2:00pm - 4:00pm • Sunday 10th March, 7:30am - 2:30pm

Timing Chips

We will be using ‘active’ timing chips for all races in 2019. All riders must securely attach their timing chip to your bike’s forks before starting. Use th esame timign chip for all races you compete in - so if you change bike then you need to move your timign chip (and number plate). Please return the timing chip after racing - lost or forgotten chips will be charged at $100 each!

Event Shirts

Participants entered into either Gravity Gods or the XC Whippets categories before 4th February will receive a event t-shirt as part of your entry fee. Shirts must be collected from the registration marquee (they will not be posted).

SPONSORS EXPO AND COMPETITOR SERVICES An extensive bike expo will be set up during the following periods in the Village Square • Friday 8th March, 4:00pm - 7:00pm • Saturday 9th March, 8:00am - 5:00pm • Saturday 10th March, 8:00am - 4:00pm

On site bike shop and bike mechanics

All Terrain Cycles will have a bike shop set up in the village square to retail all bike necessities. Their permanent shop will also be open in the nearby day lodge for any major repairs or larger purchases. All Terrain Cycles also have a range of rental bikes available so if yours breaks or if your friends / family want to join all the action then they can.

Competitor briefings and race changes

A short competitors’ briefing will be held immediately before each race where we will outline any last minute course changes and final race information. There will also be a notice board for race information and additional details in the Village Square.

SOCIAL CENTRAL - EVENT FUNCTIONS AND ENTERTAINMENT The ABOM Bar - Riders’ Welcome

from 5:00pm on Friday March 8th There is no better way to get kick off a great weekend than by meeting old friends and new at the ABOM bar and bistro on Athlete’s Walk. Located just 150m from the Village Square the ABOM will be open all weekend (from 9:00am til late) and serve breakfasts, lunch and pub style meals. 2:00pm - 6:00pm happy hour!

Summer Session Events

from 4:30pm on Saturday March 9th Check out the riding events that have been custom designed for watching with a beer in one hand and a vuvuzela in the other. These events are going to be EPIC! • The ATC Highline Slopestyle Comp. 4:30pm - 6:00pm: Bringing the HIGH to Mt Buller this summer, watch riders throw down the coolest, radest and hugest jumps and tricks on the custom 3 feature course. We’ve all seen this stuff on TV now see it for real. • The 16” Dual Slalom. 6:15pm – 7:00pm: Two riders going head-to-head down a grass dual-slalom track on Bourke Street – on 16” kids bikes! This is a popular favourite and is made for spectators to line the course and cheer. Both events are BYO - so you can bring your own beers and get into the spirit of things (The Buller Grocer next to the village square is a licensed bottle shop - open until 6:00pm). Events are free to watch so bring your family and get ready to cheer! p2 2019 Shimano Bike Buller Festival - EVENT PROGRAM

PHOTO: Flow MTB | RIDER: Wyn Masters - GT Factory Racing

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‘Picnic in the Park’ – food, wine and music festival

12:00pm – 6:00pm on Sunday March 10th Organised by Mt Buller Resort Management (who seriously know how to throw a party), the ‘Picnic in the Park’ festival is an afternoon of indulgence and the ideal place to park after racing - or if you’re not into bikes at all... features include: • Local cold climate wines and beers • A fantastic range of quality regional food and produce • Kids activities • Live music from a range of talented musicians and entertainers Riders entered into The DHaRCO Super-D get free entry (upon presentation of your wrist band) whilst for all others there is a $20 per adult entry price which includes a souvenir wine or beer glass and complimentary beverage. NEW in 2019 is a Designated Driver ticket $15 per adult (does not include complimentary glass and beverage) Kids under 18 are free. (If you are a spectator and just want to collect your rider you must wait outside the Park otherwise you must pay the entry fee). NOTE: Picnic in the Park is CASH ONLY, and strictly a dog and smoke free event Shuttle buses with bike trailers can be booked to get you back up to the Mt Buller village from 1:30pm on Saturday and 3:30pm on Sunday but will only be provided for those who’ve booked them. TO BOOK: go to the merchandise page on the event website or call the Rapid Ascent (03 5261 5511) to arrange - prior to Thursday 7th March.

FREE MTB MOVIE: ‘Gamble - A Mountain Bike Film’

8:00pm Sunday at the Mt Buller Cinema Steel City Media and Creative Concept bring you the much anticipated new feature film ‘GAMBLE’, bringing some of Downhill Mountain Bike racing’s most talented and charismatic riders together and releasing them from the confines of the tape. Released in late 2018 it showcases plenty of full gas from the world’s elite.

THE CHAIRLIFT ALSO OPEN FOR FREE-RIDERS AND SPECTATORS The Northside Express Chairlift will be operational over the weekend to provide scenic chairlift rides for spectators and free-riding for those not wanting to race. Hours of operation: 8:30am – 4:30pm on Saturday and Sunday. Costs: Over 70yrs and under 5yrs free of charge • Sightseeing (single lift up and down): $16 per child under 18yrs, $22 per adult. • Mountain Bikers (unlimited lifts up all day): $50 per child under 18yrs, $65 per adult. Tickets can be bought at either end of the chairlift or at the registration marquee in the Village Square

KIDS ACTIVITIES We have a whole host of activities lined up for kids to do throughout the weekend. So bring your kids to the mountain and get them excited about all the kid-friendly bike events included over the weekend.

Saturday

• Jumping Castle: Free all day in the Village Square • Kids Village Ride (5km or 10km) @ Village Square. A fun MTB event for capable kids who can complete 1 or 2 laps of the 5km course. More details below. • Summer Session Events: They are welcome to watch the Slopestyle and Dual Slalom events.

Sunday

• Jumping Castle: Free all day in the Village Square • Picnic in the Park: 12:00pm - 6:00pm @ Mirimbah. Fun for the whole family to enjoy with special kids’ acts and entertainment. Kids under 18yrs are FREE.

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RACE PRESENTATIONS Presentations will be held at the end of each day as follows:

Saturday 9th March

7:00pm Presentations for the Saint ABOM Downhill and Thule Epic Trail events at the Dual Slalom course

Sunday 10th March

7:30pm Presentations for the DHaRCO Super-D and the XTR Gravity Enduro at the Mt Buller Cinema

RACE RESULTS AND EVENT UPDATES Live updates via Instagram and Twitter #ShimanoBikeBuller @RapidAscent

We will be updating twitter and instagram with plenty of live event updates, photos and other race highlights from the Shimano Bike Buller Festival under the tag #ShimanoBikeBuller from @RapidAscent all weekend so stay connected and share your stories with us. Race results will be live to the internet all weekend. Check the Results tab on the event website:

www.ShimanoBikeBuller.com.au

EVENT PHOTOS AND VIDEO

Event photos via ‘Photos 4 Sale’ www.www.photos4sale.co.nz

Our new event photographer Allan Ure from Photos 4 Sale will have professional photographers at various locations around the course to take plenty of photos of you in action on the day. All photos will be individually catalogued and available to view / purchase from www.photos4sale.co.nz CORPOR ATE DESIGN

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Also keep an eye out for the boys from The Riders Life who’ll be shooting video over the weekend!

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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS AND DETAILS

Here follows a description of each stage of the 2019 Shimano Bike Buller Festival and the associated details on starts, finishes and all else. Please be aware of the following points: • Mt Buller is a mountain. So the trails are never flat and all races include some big climbs (and descents) • The terrain is rocky. All trails have a lot of rock either in the surface or sticking up on either side. Remember to look where you want to go, not at the rocks you want to avoid! Don’t be put off, the riding is terrific but it is also hilly and technical so be prepared for it and you will truly love it!

Special Notes

• If you withdraw from a stage for any reason whatsoever then you MUST advise a marshal or member of the race management ASAP. This is really important as otherwise you will be assumed missing and a search commenced. • Normal road rules apply for all stages - traffic is not stopped during any race so take care and give way where appropriate. • All distances are approximate and may be + / - 2km at times. • It is up to you to get yourself to the start of each stage for the advertised start time. We will not be conducting a roll call and will not be waiting for riders to arrive.

THE RACES THULE EPIC TRAIL POINT TO POINT - 46KM When: 9:00am, Saturday 9th March. Start / finish: Mass start from the Village Square. Finish at Mirimbah at the base of the mountain (opposite ticket gate). Shuttles: All riders must arrange your own shuttle from the finish back to your accommodation (eg. the Mt Buller Village). Riders without support can book onto the ATC Shuttles for $20pp that depart the finish line every 30mins from 1:00pm. Book via the merchandise page on the event website to guarantee a spot or via the ATC website. Bags: we will take your spare clothes from the start to the finish. Drop them into the registration marquee before starting. Hydration / nutrition locations: Water point at 20km pt King Saddle - after descending off Mt Stirling. XC Whippet race?: Yes, to contest the XC Whippet premier category you must compete in this race. Requirements: All riders must carry a first aid kit and a mobile phone. Riders are strongly encouraged to take plenty of spares with you like tubes, tools, pump and a spare derailleur hanger. Course description: Start in the Village Square and turn onto the Village Family Trail then Gang Gangs to Skills Park. Turn right and follow Corn Hill Road to Howqua Gap then climb up the Stonefly trail to Bluff Spur Hut on Mt Stirling. Keep left and follow the West Summit Trail and then turn left to descend down the Stirling Trail, past the Machinery Shed to Kings Saddle and the water point at the 20km pt. Cross over King Saddle and ride the Hut Loop trail past the Razorback Hut and continue on the Razorback Trail as it skirts Mt Winstanley. Turn left at No. 3 Road and left again onto the mixture of single track and Pinnacle Road to the high point. Continue following the marked trail down the swooping single track descent (the best descent in Australia?!) turn left to descend Plain Creek Rd (take care on the water bar jumps) and left at the bottom to ride the final stretch of single track through to the finish line at Mirimbah. EPIC!!! Hazards: This is not your average XC / Marathon race course... • This ride goes through some very remote and inaccessible country so all riders must take extra care and responsibility for yourselves and for others to protect your safety. • Take caution on the long single track descent and ESPECIALLY on the water bar descent on Plain Creek Tk near the end. • Be aware that this is a long ride with some huge climbs so take plenty of food and hydration get you through. Course Marking: The race course will be marked with a mixture of: • Existing EPIC trail marking arrows and sign posts • SMALL RED ARROWS - pegged into ground or fixed to trees + LARGE RED ARROWS - fixed to trees and posts • FLUORO PINK SURVEYOR’S TAPE tied to trees and bushes • RED/WHITE BARRIER TAPE - used to “block off” tracks and mark the WRONG WAY. This tape will be laid down on the ground. You should NEVER ride over or cross over the red/white barrier tape - it’s the WRONG WAY! p6 2019 Shimano Bike Buller Festival - EVENT PROGRAM

THULE EPIC TRAIL POINT TO POINT - 46KM COURSE MAP

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MUST DO MOUNTAIN BIKING NO 1 MTB DESTINATION

ALL GRAVITY AND XC TRAILS OPEN 1 DECEMBER — 28 APRIL 2019

Mt Buller Bike Park is recognised as the number one mountain biking destination in Australia.

WE’VE GOT IT ALL If you are new to mountain biking it is time discover what the fuss is all about! Mt Buller Bike Park has it all for every discipline and level of rider. – 60+kms of purpose-built cross country single track, plus an additional 40+km of trail, from beginner to advanced – 5 shuttle assisted gravity trails, including a revamped ABOM – Australia’s first flow trail, Copperhead – The iconic 14km Delatite River Trail, ideal for fun, social rides – The incomparable 10km Stonefly, mind-blowing single-track – The infamous 50+km Australian Alpine Epic, for advanced riders

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– On mountain accommodation, dining, bike hire and servicing

SAINT ABOM DOWNHILL When: Saturday 9th March, event commences from 8:30am Start / finish: Individual starts at Spurs Restaurant at the top of the Northside Express chairlift. Finish at the base of the Northside Express Race format: We’re running it in a traditional, World Cup style with practice in the morning, followed by a seeding run and then a final run with the fastest down the track on the final run claiming the win. Gravity God Race?: Yes, to contest the Gravity God Premier category you must compete in this race. Hydration / nutrition locations: Refuel at the Spurs Restaurant selling food and drinks all day. You can also set up some pit tents (in the agreed areas only) or leave your bag here with your food / clothes for easy access. Terrain and riding style: ABOM is the original Buller DH track and includes a variety of terrain varying from fast open sections to rocky switchbacks and jumps. The track was re-worked back in November which basically super-sized everything to provide a more thrilling ride for everyone. This is an intermediate level DH track that can be ridden cleanly by both elite riders racing to win AND novice / intermediate level DH riders looking to build up more experience and get involved. Chairlift?: Hell yeah, your entry fee includes a lift pass for the day so you so you don’t need to worry about shuttle buses / trailers AND you can ride other tracks serviced from the chairlift in between times (Outlaw and Copperhead...) Requirements: All riders must wear a full face helmet and we also recommend wearing body armour. The course: The ABOM descent is one of Buller’s classics and has been raced for years and years… it’s an intermediate level, 2.2km descent that includes fast, open straights with sweeping corners, berms and numerous switchbacks. It’s also got a few rock gardens, drop offs and jumps to keep you on your toes. The upper section is more technical than the lower half where it straightens out a bit and builds up some solid speed. The descent finishes at the Northside Express chairlift and riders catch the chairlift back up after each descent. • The course will not be fully taped top to bottom so competitors must ride the ABOM track from top to bottom, sticking to the obvious race line and not cut any corners or ride ‘cross-country’ to short-cut the track. Schedule (proposed, may be tweaked on the day depending the number of riders): 8:30am – 9:00am Course open for walking inspection – no riding. 9:00am – 11:15am Practice on the course – all categories, setting off at your own time. 11:15am - 12:00pm Practice for Elite and Expert category riders only 12:30pm – ~2:30pm Seeding Run • start order for the seeding run will be advised at the start line at 12:00pm • the course will be closed to all other riders during the seeding run • single rider starts at 30 second intervals • we will start riders according to their category with faster categories starting later ~3:00pm (approx) Race runs commence. • there will be 30mins minimum between the last seeding run & the 1st race run • start order will be advised after the conclusion of all seeding runs at approximately 2:30pm. • single rider starts at 30 second intervals, slowest to fastest.

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KIDS VILLAGE RIDE This is NOT a race. It will be conducted as a non-competitive ride that provides motivation and encouragement for all kids. There will be no results recorded or winners prizes awarded. There will be spot prizes though!

When: 3:00pm, Saturday 9th March. Entries taken up until 3:00pm at the Registration marquee Start / finish: Mass start from the Village Square. Finishes at Village Square. Ride format: The course consists of one 5km lap on the village MTB trails. Better riders can choose to do 2 laps and those newer to the sport can do just one and then ride through the finish chute. Terrain and riding style: The 5km loop includes a mixture of village streets, double track and single track, forming a fun but achievable loop around the township for kids. The most challenging track is the One Tree Hill climb which is smooth but goes up, and the rest is largely all double track. Hydration / nutrition locations: No water points on the course – drinks at the finish line. Requirements: Kids can do it on any type of pedal bike (it is too hard for a balance bike) - and all riders must wear a certified helmet. Recommended ages: Recommended for 7 - 13 yr olds. (Yes some kids are exceptionally talented so younger kids will not be turned away, but in general terms these are the recommended ages for this ride). This is a fun riding event designed to give kids the chance to ride their bikes and be ‘part of the action’. The event is centered on participation and encouraging kids to get out on their bikes and enjoy riding off-road in the fresh air.

Start and course description: The course consists of two 5km loops. The event commences with a mass start in the

Village Square, with riders going up The Avenue and then turning left to the Village Family Trail. Turn left to ride over One Tree Hill and then turn right onto the Village Family Trail and follow it past the Sewage Tanks and back towards the village. (There is a short section of two way traffic here so remember to keep left). Back in the village, riders cut between the lodges and back onto The Avenue where they started and complete a second lap (or go through to the finish if you have had enough!). The ride is held in a semi-supervised environment in that we mark the course and marshal some intersections but we do not have marshals with line of sight over the whole course because we want to encourage independence and give kids a chance to experience freedom on their bikes. Adults are welcome to join kids free of charge if you want to provide greater supervision of your junior whippets.

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ATC HIGHLINE SLOPESTYLE COMP When: Saturday 9th March, riding between 4:30pm and 6:00pm Start / finish: The ‘Toboggan Slope’ – right next to the Village Square Event format: Jumps, hits, tricks and style...Show us what you’ve got! The track: The crew from All Terrain Cycles (Shannon Rademaker and Gaelen Slaney) have built a spectacular 3 feature course with a Cannon Drop and 2 huge kickers right in front of a large grassy slope for spectators. Prize money: Riders will compete for $1000 in CASH and Prizes! Food / beverages: The event is BYO so bring your own supplies or stock up at the licensed Buller Grocer. Bringing the HIGH to Mt Buller this summer, watch riders throw down the coolest, radest and biggest jumps and tricks on a custom course right next to the Village Square. We are stoked to showcase this discipline of mountain biking at Mt Buller with 12+ of Australia’s best dirt jumpers entered and will blow us away with their skills in the air. Riders will judged using the traditional slopestyle score card on best style and trick for each of the 3 features. The Rider with the highest points out of 100 after 2 runs WINS! Judging basis: •

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Amplitude: Height of jumps, also called air. Bigger tricks score higher. Difficulty: Degree of difficulty of the tricks. Execution: How well the athletes perform their tricks. For example tight rotation, clean style, and smooth landing. Variety: The difference of the tricks within the run. Doing the same trick of all the jumps will not score highly even if it is a very difficult trick. Progression: How the trick selection progresses the sport, for example brand new tricks will score high because they push the sport forward. Combinations or flow: The way the athletes string the tricks together. Having to slow down or otherwise reset after a trick will lose points. Overall: The whole package, including the athlete’s personal style.

This event is organised and conducted by Shannon Rademaker at All Terrain Cycles (thank you!).

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16” DUAL SLALOM When: 6:15pm, Saturday 9th March. Start / Finish: Start just below the Ski School building and race down to the finish line just above the play ground. All located adjacent the Bourke Street ski run. Race format: Riders go head to head in a dual slalom format down the grass track – riding 16” kids bikes – leading to a ‘winner takes all’ final! Hydration / nutrition locations: BYO drinks (alcohol permitted) and food available from the village square The track: Two identical tracks running side by side with turns, jumps and fast sections, all on grass. Preferred bike: We will provide the 16” inch kids bikes that must be used for all races. Field limit: 32 riders (over 12yrs only). A limited number of entries will be taken online beforehand with a top-up taken on the day. Requirements: A sense of stupid fun and a good time attitude + a helmet. Now this is a whole lot of fun to race and watch... 2 riders going head to head down a grass dual slalom track on 16” kids bikes! We encourage anyone who wants to have a go to step up and enter this fun event - you do not have to be an elite rider to join the fun. All races will be head to head – elimination style - with a single run down the track. The winner of each head to head race progresses to the next round - leading to a final with the last man standing walking away with $50 cash. Unmissable!!

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MICHELIN CORN HILL GRAND PRIX - 20KM When: 8:00am, Sunday 10th March. Start / Finish: Mass start from the Village Square. Finish at Village Square. Race Format: Single loop, non-stop race with the fastest winning. XC Whippet Race?: Yes, to contest the XC Whippet Premier category you must compete in this race. Hydration / nutrition locations: No water points on the course. Terrain and riding style: Generally flowing single track with some rocky sections, berms and jumps. This is hilly riding with 4-5 solid climbs - interspersed with some super fun single track descents. Requirements: All riders must carry first aid kit. Start and course description: Racing commences with a start in the Athletes Walk right beside the Village Square. After starting the peloton rides turns right into Summit Rd and then right into The Avenue to the end and then turns left onto the Village Family Track. Follow the double track then single track over One Tree Hill and then down Gang Gangs to the Skills Park on Corn Hill Road. Cross over Corn Hill Road and follow a long single track loop around and over Corn Hill where you will race along the following trails in this order: Cornhill Trail, down Trigger Happy to Howqua Gap, up Woolybutt and Medusa to the Corn Hill Summit. Then down Misty Twist, up Silk Lane, down Clancy’s Run back to the Skills Park. Cross over Corn Hill Road and ride up Split Rock and the Family Trail and into the finish at the Village Square. Hazards: This is tough ride with several climbs - don’t be deceived by the (short) distance! • Be aware of the Gravity Enduro competitors around Corn Hill. They should not be on ‘your’ tracks when you get there but you will see other riders in this event while you are racing. Course Marking: The race course will be marked with a mixture of: • SMALL RED ARROWS - pegged into ground or fixed to trees + LARGE RED ARROWS - fixed to trees and posts • FLUORO PINK SURVEYOR’S TAPE tied to trees and bushes • RED/WHITE BARRIER TAPE - used to “block off” tracks and mark the WRONG WAY. This tape will be laid down on the ground. You should NEVER ride over or cross over the red/white barrier tape - it’s the WRONG WAY!

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XTR GRAVITY ENDURO PRACTICE DAY - Saturday 9th March

The Gravity Enduro course will be open for practice on Saturday from late morning onwards, with specific stages opening according to the schedule below (because another race is riding over them first). • Gangs Gangs - open between 10:00am and 2:30pm and then after 4:00pm (when the kids race is finished) • Trigger Happy - open all day • Stonefly descent - open all day • Misty Twist - open all day • Clancy’s Run - open all day • Outlaw - open all day, lift accessible • Copperhead - open all day, lift accessible • Urban special stage to finish - open between 3:00pm and 5:00pm, lift accessible Riders wishing to use the chairlift during practice may purchase a lift pass from the top of the North Side Express chairlift or from the registration marquee in the Village Square on Saturday ($50 per child under 18yrs, $65 per adult) or enter the ABOM downhill ($97 - $107) and race this event as well as access the chair and the Outlaw, Copperhead and the Urban DH stages. There is no practical ability to shuttle any other stage.

RACE DAY - Sunday 10th March When: Race Briefing at 8:30am and then wave starts commence from 8:40am in the Village Square, Sunday 10th March. Start / finish: Separate group starts from the Village Square (3 riders / minute). Finish at Village Square. Race format: This is a true Gravity Enduro format consisting of timed descents and un-timed climbs and liaison sections along the way. The winner is the rider with the lowest cumulative time on the timed descents. Gravity God Race?: Yes, to contest the Gravity God Premier category you must compete in this race. Hydration / nutrition locations: Yes, there will be water available at the bottom of Gang Gangs / Clancy’s Run stages and at top and bottom of the lift accessible stages.. Requirements: All riders must wear a full face helmet whilst racing, must carry a first aid kit and a mobile phone.

The course: There are 6 base stages that all riders must complete and an additional 2 stages that the pro-categories

must complete. Riders in each category must do the stages in the order listed below and follow the intended course route. Pro-course – must be ridden by all riders in the following categories: • Under 19 - male and female + Expert - male and female +

Elite - male and female

The pro-course must be ridden in the following order. (This route will be given to you as a sticker when you start). 1. Copperhead > then go up the chairlift 2. Outlaw > go up the chairlift and ride through the village to 3. Gangs Gangs > ride over Corn Hill to 4. Trigger Happy > ride up the Stonefly single track and turn right to take a shortcut up the River Spur to 5. Stonefly descent > ride / push up Woolybutt to the top of Corn Hill 6. Misty Twist > ride up Misty Twist ascent 7. Clancy’s Run > ride along Corn Hill Rd to the base of the chairlift, up the lift and across to the Summit Rd for the 8. Urban special stage This is approximately 40km long with 35mins of racing for the fastest.

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Amateur-course – must be ridden by all riders in the following categories: • Under 15 - male and female • Under 17 - male and female • Sport - male and female • Veteran (30-39yrs) - male and female • Masters (40+ years) - male and female • Super Masters (50+) - male and female The amateur-course must be ridden in the following order. (This route will be given to you as a sticker when you start). 1. Gangs Gangs > ride to the top of Corn Hill on Medusa 2. Misty Twist > ride up Misty Twist ascent 3. Clancy’s Run > ride along Corn Hill Rd to the base of the chairlift, up the lift 4. Copperhead > go up the chairlift 5. Outlaw > go up the chairlift and ride across to the Summit Rd for the 6. Urban special stage This is approximately 30km long with 24mins of racing for the fastest.

Race start and format:

• Riders start from the Village Square in designated groups of 3 riders per minute. Start groups will be posted to the notice board on Saturday evening with faster riders going off first. • We will start the Amateur-course categories and Pro-course categories at the same time from the village square – with each group of riders going directly to the start of their first stage. • Riders can start each timed downhill segment whenever you like, there are no specified start times for each rider, we just encourage you to leave approx 20-30sec between each rider as you self start • Riders make your own way around the course completing each segment in the order listed above. • The last stage – Urban Special Stage – finishes directly above the Village Square.

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GUIDELINE

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The Gravity Enduro is race #3 and finale of the Victorian Enduro Tour with race times counting towards overall results in the Series. Check the Victorian Enduro Tour facebook page for more information.

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p17 2019 Shimano Bike Buller Festival - EVENT PROGRAM Pro-course – must be ridden by all riders in the following categories: • Under 19 - male and female • Expert - male and female • Elite - male and female

XTR GRAVITY ENDURO COURSE MAP

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DHaRCO SUPER-D

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When: Sunday 10th March, wave starts between 2:00pm and 3:00pm. Start / Finish: Wave starts at the top of the Skyline Track at the top of the Mt Buller village (where the Gravity Enduro Urban special stage starts) - this is a NEW START compared to previous years. Finish in the Picnic in the Park festival at Mirimbah Shuttles: All riders must arrange your own shuttle from the finish back to your accommodation (eg. the Mt Buller Village). Riders without support can book onto the ATC Shuttles for $20pp that depart the Mt Buller ticket office every 30mins from 3:30pm. Book via the merchandise page on the event website to guarantee a spot or via the ATC website. Race format: A single top to bottom descent from Mt Buller all the way down to Mirimbah at the base of the mountain – 11km long and 1,050m vertical descent in a single run! Fastest down the hill wins - achievable by all riders! Gravity God Race?: NO, riders doing the Gravity Gods events do not have to do this race (but you can if you want to!). Hydration / nutrition locations: No water points on course but plenty of opportunities to fully recharge at the extensive Picnic in the Park gourmet food, beer and music festival at the end of the descent. Terrain and riding style: All Mountain riding down on sometimes rough, sometimes smooth single track. The course includes a couple of very short (but sharp) climbs but otherwise downhill (and fast) from top to bottom. Requirements: All riders must carry a mobile phone. The event starts with groups of 2 riders setting off at 30 second intervals, from the top of the Skyline Trail above the village and then powering down the 11km long, 1,050 vertical metre descent to the base of the mountain. The trail starts down the Skyline double track and then hooks onto the Village Family Track and One Tree Hill then Gang Gangs for some tight single track through the snow gums. Cross over Corn Hill Road and you turn onto the Delatite River Trail where it opens up a little to become a super-fast double track that will see you descending down-down-down the mountain at maximum speed, crossing 12 bridges over the magical Delatite River and finishing in the Picnic in the Park food, wine and music festival at the finish line at Mirimbah. You can meet your friends and family at the Picnic in the Park and get a lift up with them or you can book an ATC shuttle (All Terrain Cycles) to transport you and your bike back up the mountain throughout the afternoon (pre-booked only). Riders entered into The DHaRCO Super D get free entry to Picnic in The Park (upon presentation of your wrist band) as part of your race entry fee entry, whilst for non-competitors there is a $20 per adult entry price, which includes a free beer or wine glass and a free beverage of the same. NOTE: Competitors’ free entry to Picnic in the Park does NOT entitle them to a souvenir glass and/or complimentary beer/ wine. Kids under 18 are free. (If you are a spectator and just want to collect your rider then you will have to wait outside the Park otherwise you must pay the entry fee).

This is not a full on downhill race! You do not need 10inches of travel, body armour and a full face helmet – in fact the fastest riders will just be riding their standard cross country / all mountain dual suspension bikes (100mm-140mm travel). It is also a good event for capable kids who can handle their bikes OK and want a rewarding ride from top to bottom although be aware that there may be faster riders racing to get past at times.

DHARCO SUPER-D COURSE MAP

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RACE RULES & EQUIPMENT

The following rules apply for all stages: • Competitors must start / finish and complete each race on a non-motorised bicycle, other than those entered into the E-bike categories. • Competitors must ride the complete course as marked and directed, passing through all checkpoints. Taking shortcuts or using any unfair means of obtaining an advantage over other competitors will result in disqualification. It is the riders’ responsibility to ensure that the correct course is followed! • All competitors must wear a certified bike helmet at ALL times. This must be a full face helmet for the Saint ABOM Downhill, DHaRCO Super-D and the XTR Gravity Enduro. • All competitors must carry the listed compulsory equipment from the start through to the finish for each race. • Riders who withdraw at any time after the start must advise a marshal of their withdrawal immediately. • Pedal assisted e-bikes may be used provided they do not have a power output greater than 250watts or a powered speed faster than 25km/hr. E-bikes will have their own category and will not be eligible for age group or overall prizes or prize money. • Race numbers must be displayed on the front handlebars at all times and cannot be modified or cut down in size in any way. • Riders may only accept mechanical assistance on the course by other registered racers and race staff/volunteers. No other assistance may be accepted from external support crews or the general public. • One competitor cannot provide assistance in forward progression (pushing / pulling / towing), or provide/carry food or drinks to another competitor in another category except in emergency circumstances. • Prior to being accepted into the event, all participants must read and agree to the Terms of Entry and Waiver. This is done via your online entry process. Parents/Guardians of riders under 18 years of age must sign a hard copy of the Terms of Entry and Waiver. • The various guidelines and information under each races’ description, as well as other information in the Event Program also form part of race rules for the events. • Australian Road Rules apply at all times on all roads, tracks and trails. • Only registered riders or marshals / officials may ride on the course during the hours that race is under way. • Riders are only eligible to win prizes in the category in which they register. • Failure to abide by rules may result in a time penalty or disqualification. • Rapid Ascent has sole discretion to alter or amend the race format or the rules in order to increase the safety of participants or for any other reason deemed appropriate. • All protests must be lodged with the Race Director within 15 minutes of the official results being posted / presented. A judging panel of three Rapid Ascent staff (including the Race Director) will adjudicate on all protests and other contentious matters, and their decision will be final. • If the race is cancelled or called off after it has started, as soon as you have been notified of the cancellation it is each rider’s responsibility to get themselves back to either the Start or Finish areas.

Compulsory Equipment required for the following races: Thule Epic Trail pt to pt, Michelin Corn Hill Grand Prix.

• A First Aid kit (comprising at least: 2 x crepe bandages, 2 x non-adhesive wound dressings, 6 x steri-strip wound closures, 1 x triangular bandage, surgical gloves). First aid kits are available to purchase from registration for $15. • Mobile phone (there is good mobile reception on the courses so they could be essential in an emergency) Recommended equipment: • spare hanger for your rear derailleur plus suitable spares/tools to carry out own repairs such as multi-tool, pump, spare tubes, chain breaker, lube, tyre patches/duct tape/$5 note • Adequate hydration for the stage being undertaken.

XTR Gravity Enduro

• Full face helmet on timed segments. An open face helmet may be worn for untimed segments of the XTR Gravity Enduro. A helmet of either style must be worn when riding your bike (not if / when pushing). • A First Aid kit (comprising at least: 2 x crepe bandages, 2 x non-adhesive wound dressings, 6 x steri-strip wound closures, 1 x triangular bandage, surgical gloves). First aid kits are available to purchase from registration for $15. • Mobile phone (there is good mobile reception on the courses so they could be essential in an emergency)

Saint ABOM Downhill

• full face helmet Recommended equipment (especially for juniors aged under 18): • A jersey or shirt covering the elbows or elbow guards expressly designed for off road cycling. • Knees covered by either full-length trousers and/or self-fastening knee or knee/shin guards expressly designed for offroad cycling. • Neck brace expressly designed for off-road cycling. p21 2019 Shimano Bike Buller Festival - EVENT PROGRAM

• Back and shoulder protection expressly designed for the purpose. • Full finger gloves • Goggles expressly designed for the purpose.

DHaRCO Super-D:

• Mobile phone (there is good mobile reception on the courses so they could be essential in an emergency) Recommended equipment: • A First Aid kit (comprising at least: 2 x crepe bandages, 2 x non-adhesive wound dressings, 6 x steri-strip wound closures, 1 x triangular bandage, surgical gloves). First aid kits are available to purchase from registration for $15. Failure to carry any of any of the compulsory equipment will result in a 20 minute time penalty being applied to that race.

PRIZES

The following categories will be awarded as part of the 2019 Shimano Bike Buller Festival.

Combined races categories: Gravity Gods:

Race the two designated gravity events (listed below) to contest the Gravity Gods combined races category. Your race times are added together and the lowest cumulative time is the ‘Gravity God’ and overall winner of the weekend. • ABOM Downhill (Saturday) - Single fastest descent time from your race run. • Gravity Enduro (Sunday) - total of all timed segments raced.

XC Whippets:

Race the two designated X-Country events (listed below) to contest the XC Whippets combined races category. Your race times are added together and the lowest cumulative time is the overall XC winner of the weekend. • 46km Epic Trail point to point - final race time • 20km Corn Hill grand prix - final race time

Individual race categories

The following categories will be awarded in all events: • Under 15 - male and female • Under 17 - male and female • Under 19 - male and female • Sport - male and female • Expert - male and female • Elite - male and female • Veteran (30-39yrs) - male and female • Masters (40+ years) - male and female • Super Masters (50+) - male and female Age categories will be taken from your age on 31st March, 2019.

Kids rides

No age categories or overall places will be recorded in any of the kids specific rides as they are based around participation and encouraging every rider to give it a go and have fun on their bikes.

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“I’d heard so many great things about this race, and it surpassed all my expectations...” Carmen (2018 rider)

4 DAYS | 6 STAGES ALICE SPRINGS, NT 22 - 25 AUGUST 2019

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• Central start & finish lines • Endless KMs of single track • Friendly social atmosphere Lorem ipsum

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WANT MORE ACTION? Then check out these other Rapid Ascent races taking place all around the country in 2019.

X-Adventure Dunsborough

Dunsborough WA. 30-31 March, 2019. www.xadventure.com.au An off road triathlon event through the stunning scenery around Dunsborough in South West WA. With long course and short course options, duathlon, plus a kids triathlon, this is the biggest off-road triathlon in Australia held in adventure paradise.

Margaret River Ultra Marathon

Margaret River WA. 4 May, 2019. www.MRultramarathon.com.au Providing a spectacular 80km journey for solo runners and relay teams (with up to 5 runners), the Margaret River Ultra Marathon provides runners with an incredible race in Western Australia’s Cape to Cape coastline. The inaugural event in 2018 was huge and 2019 will be even bigger.

The Trail Running Series

Five wilderness locations within 1 hour’s drive of Melbourne, Jun - Sept. www.TrailRunningSeries.com.au Trail running races for everyone... The Trail Running Series includes 5 different race venues all within one hour’s drive of Melbourne with short (~6km) / medium (~12km) / and long (~17km) course runs through spectacular wilderness. Make sure you are part of this revolutionary series in 2018.

The Redback

Alice Springs, NT. 22 - 25 August, 20189 www.TheRedback.com.au An awe inspiring mountain bike stage race in the majestic MacDonnell Ranges of Alice Springs. With 6 racing stages over 4 days varying from a 45 second hill sprint to a 45km epic, this is MTB nirvana with plenty of flowing single track, incredible scenery and friendly camaraderie.

Run Larapinta

Alice Springs, NT. 16 - 19 August, 2019 www.RunLarapinta.com.au A four day, four stage trail running race along the most spectacular sections of the iconic Larapinta Trail in Central Australia. Race either the Malbunka with 20km - 45km stages or the Namatjira with 10km - 30km stages for an incredible event experience.

Surf Coast Century

Anglesea, VIC. 21 September, 2019. www.SurfcoastCentury.com.au A spectacular 100km trail run along Victoria’s surf coast and wildflower hinterland with the promise that no two steps will be the same. Do it either as an individual and click over the whole 100km solo or join up with some friends in a relay team of up to 4 and run 25km each.

Augusta Adventure Fest

Augusta, WA, 2 - 3 November, 2019. www.AugustaAdventureFest.com.au The biggest adventure race in the world is back again with 3 adventure events to challenge all comers – Long Course, Mini Adventure Race and Junior Survivor for kids. Each race includes its own spectacular course through the wild landscapes around Augusta in the South West of WA.

Otway Odyssey presented by Focus

Forrest, VIC. 22-23 February, 2020. www.OtwayOdyssey.com.au The Otway Odyssey is the most respected MTB marathon in Australia, comprising 100km, 50km 30km and 10km courses through the spectacular Otway Ranges on some of the best single tracks in Australia. In 2017 the event was expanded to include the Great Otway Gravel Grind for roadies and CX riders to hit up 97km or 49km course through the regions magnificent dirt roads. Good luck on race day and we hope to see you at another Rapid Ascent event soon.

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