SURVIVAL GUIDE 2020 NEDBANK TOUR DE TULI
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NEDBANK TOUR DE TULI SURVIVAL GUIDE 2020 1
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION TO THE 2020 NEDBANK TOUR DE TULI PAGE 5
GENERAL OVERVIEW PAGE 7
CHILDREN IN THE WILDERNESS PAGE 11
TRANSPORT OPTIONS PAGE 13
CAMP LOGISTICS AND SERVICES PAGE 15
2020 ROUTE OVERVIEW PAGE 21
TRAINING RECOMMENDATION PAGE 25
RECOMMENDED PACKING LIST PAGE 33
VISA REQUIREMENTS PAGE 37
HEALTH AND SAFETY INFORMATION PAGE 43
TOUR RULES PAGE 49
TEAM CONTACT DETAILS PAGE 53
3
NEDBANK
TOUR DE TULI:
AN INTRODUCTION
A MESSAGE FROM THE TOUR DIRECTOR – NICOLA HARRIS
The 2019 Tour attracted riders from across the globe and provided them with a life-changing
opportunity to follow game trails in pristine wilderness areas, encountering an array of wildlife and
enjoying spectacular scenery along the way. Being able to enjoy mountain biking with family and
friends, appreciating all that the wilderness has to offer, is certainly one for your bucket list. The
Tour has become synonymous with adventure, serious single-track riding and an incredible spirit of
camaraderie. Once again, the participants rose to the challenge and, along with the usual badges of
honour in the form of a few cuts and bruises, travelled home with many special memories. For the
next Tour, we aim to achieve even higher standards than those of the 2019 event, and we are sure
that participants joining us this year will revel in the magic that is the Nedbank Tour de Tuli.
“It was an amazing few days in all ways and made so by the people who made it happen! I have
tried to explain to my friends how we had an immigration kiosk next to the river in both Zim and
Bots… It sounds unbelievable but in many ways it sums up the Tour. The level of organisation and
logistics is mind-blowing; the quality of the camps fantastic; the food and coffee and water points
and brunch and more food was completely over-indulging! And the company fantastic”
Joel Stransky – 2019 Rider; SA Rugby Legend
“On behalf of Group 1 I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the volunteers for your input
into this year’s Tour. The organisation that goes into this event is truly remarkable – no request was
too much and to have such an agile approach in the isolated environments was amazing. You really
demonstrated that this is a unique event.”
Don Rogan – 2019 Rider; Nedbank Private Wealth
5
GENERAL
OVERVIEW
The Nedbank Tour de Tuli is a social fundraising mountain bike event where all funds generated go
directly to the Children in the Wilderness (CITW) programme. The Tour takes place in the Greater
Mapungubwe Transfrontier Conservation Area (GMTFCA) situated in Botswana, Zimbabwe and
South Africa and gives participants the opportunity of riding in remote Africa. The riding route will
be predominantly single and jeep track, offering participants the privilege of riding along ancient
elephant tracks.
This event is open to corporate group bookings as well as friends and families seeking quality
time together while touring the GMTFCA on mountain bikes. Single riders are also welcome and
guaranteed to make friends during their ride. Participants will be grouped according to their riding
ability; however, as this is a Tour and not a race, the primary intention of allocating riders to groups
will be based on who you want to ride with. So basically, everyone is welcome!
MINIMUM ENTRY DONATION:
As 2020 will be our 15th fundraising event, we are running a few specials to share in the celebration.
R20 000 – Per rider if registered and paid by 29th February 2020
R23 000 – Per rider if registered and paid from 1st March 2020
Group Special: Bring along 12 friends, family and/or colleagues and only pay for 11 riders, based on the
above timeframes. i.e.
R220 000 – For 12 participants if registered and paid by 29th February 2020
R253 000 – For 12 participants if registered and paid from 1st March 2020
MINIMUM ENTRY DONATION INCLUDES:
• Tented accommodation – 1 rider per 2-man Coleman Tent with a high-density foam mattress
• Five meals a day (two bush meals on the riding route)
• All drinks on the riding route
• Medical support
• Bike mechanical support
• Bean There coffee station (definitely a Tour highlight!)
• Two hosts per group
• National Park entry fees
7
• 1 cycle shirt kindly sponsored by Nedbank (we will keep you updated should we find another sponsor for a second shirt) • Registration (goodie) bag • One 20-minute massage for each participant per day • Water and energy supplements throughout the day • Unique high-quality gift generously sponsored by Nedbank MINIMUM ENTRY DONATION EXCLUDES: • Visa fees (if applicable) • Beverages supplied from the bar (cash bar basis) • Bike rental (if applicable) • Cycling gear, bicycle spares and equipment • Transfers to/from the start and end of the event • Images and video of the event • Tips/gratuities for the local staff • Bicycle insurance (please note that Organisers will not be held liable for lost or damaged bicycles. Please ensure you have adequate insurance to cover this risk) • Cancellation insurance We would like thank our loyal Nedbank Tour de Tuli sponsors whose generosity contributes to subsidising the significant costs underpinning a complex event of this nature. Consequently, maximum use is made of your valued donation as an investment in the long-term sustainability of the CITW programme, benefiting inter-aligned communities and wildlife alike. Participation in the Nedbank Tour de Tuli provides an unrivalled wilderness mountain bike experience, rich dining on wildlife adventures and rare rural community interactions – all this while seamlessly traversing informal neighbouring country borders, only available to the participating riders. ADDITIONAL SPONSORSHIP DONATIONS: As always, we encourage participants to raise as much sponsorship as possible. Any additional funds raised go directly to benefit the CITW programme (further information on this non-profit initiative can be found below). In previous years we have had some participants raise up to R200 000 in donations. Wonderful prizes such as a getaway to the Seychelles or some quiet time in the African bush will be on offer.
These amazing prizes can be won by the participant who raises the most additional sponsorship,
over and above their minimum sponsorship donation (Please note: This excludes sponsorship for
event equipment or branded items). Prizes for the 2019 Nedbank Tour de Tuli will be announced
next year by April. Keep a lookout for information on our newsletters, website and social media
platforms.
EVENT DATES AND START/END POINTS:
As for the 2019 event, we will be starting and finishing at Mapungubwe National Park and World
Heritage Site in South Africa.
This year starting on Tuesday 21 July 2020 and finishing on Sunday 26 July 2020
All participants need to arrive on 21 July before 17h00 as the gates close at this time, and participants
also need to visit the SA Immigration team and stamp out of SA when they arrive at the Tour camp
at the Mapungubwe Confluence Site. This will ease the logistics when we cross into Zimbabwe the
next morning.
THE MAPUNGUBWE PARK GATES CLOSE AT 17H00 - PLEASE LEAVE ENOUGH TIME TO
COMPLETE THE ADMIN PROCESS AT THE GATE AND DRIVE TO THE CONFLUENCE SITE.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
While this event is defined as a mountain bike tour and not a race, it is important for participants
to understand that the route is strenuous. Although there are back up and support teams, anyone
that enters should take note of the following recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable Tour:
• You must be in good physical condition, with a resting heart rate of 60 bpm, and must have spent
a minimum of 6 hours a week on a bike for at least three months leading up to the event.
• Participation in at least one mountain bike event of a minimum of 70 km is mandatory within nine
months leading up to the event.
• You must have the ability to do a continuous ride of a minimum of five to six hours per day over
four consecutive days.
• You need technical mountain bike skills and must have done ample training for endurance riding
with lots of time in the saddle.
• If you have any doubts as to your ability to complete the Tour, or have any pre-existing medical
conditions, we highly recommend that you get permission from your medical doctor before
entering and ensure you have capacity to do the necessary training.
9
NEDBANK TOUR DE
TULI IN SUPPORT OF
CHILDREN IN THE
WILDERNESS
Children in the Wilderness (CITW) is a non-profit organisation which aims to facilitate sustainable
conservation through leadership development and education of children in Africa. By exposing
children to their natural heritage, CITW aims to create a network of learning sanctuaries that uplifts
and cares for our children and conserves our planet. In this way, we hope to inspire the children to
care for the environment so that they can become the custodians of these areas in the future.
CITW started operating in Botswana in 2001 and has since expanded to Namibia, Malawi, Rwanda,
South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
During the course of the year the CITW regional teams operate Eco-Clubs in the various communities
with which we work. The Eco-Clubs, which take place at the schools, follow a structured programme
and give all learners who are interested in the environment a chance to learn, discuss and expand
their knowledge of environmental issues. We are now able to reach more children in the communities
on a more regular basis. Children participating on the CITW annual camps are selected from Eco-
Clubs.
Our annual camp programme hosts rural children on a three-night environmental and life skills
educational programme in Wilderness Safaris and/or partner camps where we teach children the
importance of conservation and strive to instil a passion for the environment. The programme covers
topics such as wildlife, conservation, health, HIV/AIDS awareness, nutrition, life skills, geography,
geology, arts, crafts and theatre.
Overall, CITW aims to develop leadership values amongst the participants so as to create leaders
who are inspired to care for their environment and to show others the way.
For further information please visit the Children in the Wilderness website:
www.childreninthewilderness.com
11TRANSPORT
OPTIONS
The Nedbank Tour de Tuli starts on 21 July 2020) and ends on 26 July 2020 at Mapungubwe
National Park and World Heritage Site in South Africa.
PLEASE NOTE: THE MAPUNGUBWE ENTRANCE GATE CLOSES AT 17H00
THERE ARE TWO OPTIONS TO GET TO THE START AND END OF THE TOUR:
• Self-Drive – A car park will be set up at Mapungubwe for the vehicles. Please note, due to limited
space, there will be a walk from your car to the camp site.
• Coach Transfers – We will transport you by coach from the Wilderness Safaris offices in Rivonia
to Mapungubwe National Park and then back to the Wilderness Safaris office.
• All transport options need to paid and pre-booked online before the end of June and are subject
to availability at the time of the reservation.
SELF-DRIVE OPTION:
Cost: R500.00
If you have opted to self-drive to the start of the event, please ensure you arrive at the camp no
later than 17h00 as the gates close at this time.
The Mapungubwe Confluence Site (13km from the Mapungubwe Main Entrance) is approximately
600 km from Johannesburg and an estimated six-hour drive. Please ensure you are on the road no
later than 10h30.
PLEASE NOTE: THE COACHES ARE EXPECTED TO ARRIVE FROM JOHANNESBURG AT THE
CAMP ANYTIME FROM 15H00. PLEASE PLAN YOUR ARRIVAL TIME AROUND THIS TO AVOID
HAVING TO QUEQUE BEHIND THE RIDERS FROM THE COACHES.
COACH OPTION:
Tuesday 21 July 06h00 – Coach departs for Mapungubwe Confluence Site from the Wilderness
Safaris offices in Rivonia
Sunday 26 July 07h00 – Coach departs for the Wilderness Safaris offices in Rivonia from the
Mapungubwe Confluence Site
Coach and Bike Transport Costs: (Subject to availability at time of booking):
• R1 800 per person for a return trip (coach and bike transport)
• R900 per person for a one-way trip
• If you are self-driving and only need your bike transported to and from the event, then the cost
for this is R900 return, or R450 one way
13BIKE DELIVERY AND COLLECTION: If we are transporting your bike on your behalf, your bicycle will need to leave before you to ensure that it arrives before you at the starting point. All bikes need to be delivered and collected from the Wilderness Safaris offices as per the designated dates and times below. Please note that we will have very LIMITED capacity to manage bicycles on the departure date and therefore if you are connecting to and from domestic or international flights and will NOT be able to deliver and/or collect your bicycles at the designated time, please let us know as soon as possible, so that we can make provision for this. BIKE DELIVERY AND COACH DEPARTURE ADDRESS: Wilderness Safaris, 373 Rivonia Boulevard, Rivonia Telephone: +27 (11) 807 1800 After Hours Emergency Contact Number: +27 (0) 82 576 9173 BIKE DELIVERY AND COLLECTION DATES AND TIMES: • Delivery of Bikes – Friday 17th July between 09h00 and 12h00 • Collection of Bikes – Monday 27th July between 09h00 and 12h00 Please Note: We have very limited storage capacity so please ensure that you collect your bikes at the specified times, unless special provision has been made with the Event Organisers. Should you not collect your bike on the designated day, we cannot guarantee that your bike will be locked away. The transfer of your bicycles is entirely at your own risk. TRANSFER COSTS IN AND AROUND JOHANNESBURG: The coach is unable to collect or drop off participants at any point other than the designated departure and arrival point at the Wilderness Safaris offices in Rivonia. We can assist in arranging private transfers to/from the coach departure/arrival point. This service is outsourced and the service is provided by a registered transfer company. Transfers are bookable and payable in advance and subject to availability. Please email any transfer requests to info@childreninthewilderness.com
CAMP
LOGISTICS &
SERVICES
In order to ensure that you have a great riding experience we have done everything possible to
provide the necessary services that will make your Tour enjoyable and as comfortable as possible.
However it is worth mentioning that we are travelling through remote wilderness areas and therefore
there are many logistical challenges associated with this.
IF YOU JOINING US FOR THIS EVENT, YOU NEED TO BE COMFORTABLE
WITH THE FOLLOWING:
• There are no formal toilet stops along the riding route. Bush toilets are the only option.
• There are rustic showers in the camp. Whilst we will endeavour to provide hot water please be
aware that the pumps may get clogged at times and your shower may not be as warm as you
would prefer.
• Toilet facilities in the camps consist of either portable chemical loos (Botswana and South Africa)
or long-drop (Zimbabwe) toilets.
• Please ensure that you are up for the adventure, as things can, and do happen.
• Services Offered on Tour:
• Daily Procedures and Meals:
• All meals offered during the Tour, from a light lunch on the first day to breakfast on the departure
day, are included in your minimum entry donation.
GENERAL DAILY SCHEDULE:
• Early morning light breakfast served from 05h30 onwards. This includes cereals, muffins, fruits
and porridge. And of course delicious Bean There coffee!
• Luggage and mattresses need to be carried to the top of your tent row for loading onto the
luggage trucks.
• The first group will depart at 06h30 and the last group at around 08h30.
• A tea stop is set up after approximately 25km of riding. This stop will serve sweet and savoury
snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks, energy supplements and water.
• Brunch is at approximately 40 km, and consists of any of the following: wraps, sandwiches,
pasta salads, soft drinks, energy supplements and water.
• There is a bike park and mechanics’ station at each camp. Please chat to the mechanics as soon
as you arrive in camp should you have a problem with your bike.
• Light lunch is served in camp from 13h00 to 16h00.
• The bar is open in camp with additional costs for the drinks.
• Bean There coffee and tea station is available at each camp at no extra cost.
• Camp services i.e. bike mechanics, massages, medical tent, Hospitality Desk etc. are available
from lunch time each day until 21h00 every evening.
• Dinner is served around 19h00 when participants will also be briefed on the
following day’s route details.
15TENT VILLAGE: The tent village is set up according to your allocated riding group. When you arrive in camp, you need to select a free tent in your group’s row, which will be clearly marked. Each rider is allocated a two-person tent (single occupancy) with a mattress. If you are travelling as a couple or family group and are allocated to different groups due to differences in riding ability please ensure that you advise us of this by no later than 1st June, so that we can make the necessary arrangements to the tent allocations to accommodate all members of your family. PLEASE NOTE: • If you change riding groups during the event, you will still sleep in the group to which you were originally allocated. • All participants must bring their own pillow, bottom sheet (if required), warm sleeping bag and a bath towel. LUGGAGE: Luggage trucks transport the luggage from camp to camp. In your registration bags you will be given COLOUR-CODED luggage tags. The tags are colour-coded according to your riding and tent group. Please ensure that these tags are securely attached to your luggage so that when your luggage is offloaded in camp we know which group it belongs to. We will do all possible to keep your personal belongings safe; however, please do not leave valuables unattended in your bag. If you have something valuable please give it to the Hospitality Desk for safe-keeping. We highly recommend that you bring a COMBINATION LOCK and ensure that your bag is kept locked. Theft unfortunately can and does happen. Please ensure that your passports are stored in a safe place. SHOWERS AND WATER: Each camp site will have showers for you to enjoy after a hectic day’s riding. Please bear in mind that we will be operating in remotes areas and thus water is a scarce resource and valuable commodity. We ask you to take this into consideration and limit your showers to three minutes per shower. Given the serious drought conditions we have witnessed over the past years in the areas which we travel we anticipate having to be extra cautious with water in 2020. Please be mindful of this.
HOSPITALITY DESK:
A Hospitality Desk is located in camp each night. The function of this volunteer team is as follows:
• Support and assistance with general enquiries.
• Sale of bar coupons.
• Facilitating the finding of lost property.
• Safe-keeping of valuables.
• Charging of equipment.
Please note: We have limited capacity for charging your equipment and this will be done on a first-
come first-served basis. Event equipment will take priority.
BAR SERVICES:
All drinks in camp will be served from the bar and must be paid for with bar coupons. Bar tokens can
be purchased in advance using the online registration portal under Products. We highly recommend
that you consider using the bar coupon method, to help you avoid carrying too much cash on the
Tour. If you decide to pre-purchase bar coupons you will be able to collect these at the Hospitality
Desk on arrival, provided the bar token account has been settled.
The bar stock consists of a variety of beers, wines, soft drinks, limited spirits and mixers. Please do
NOT bring your own alcohol as, in all likelihood, it will either be confiscated at the border or you will
be liable for tough import duties.
Important:
Bar costs are relatively high due to the fact that Botswana has a 45% sin tax on all alcohol drinks,
plus all relevant VAT and import duties. We do not make any profit off the bar and any drinks costs
are to cover our overheads.
COMPLIMENTARY MASSAGE APPOINTMENTS:
We will have massage appointments available at each camp on a first-come first-served basis. Each
person is allocated 1 x 20 minute massage per riding day. Massage appointments can be booked at
the Massage Village when you arrive in camp each day. The later time slots are reserved for the later
groups to ensure everyone is able to enjoy this service. You will be allocated a time slot according to
your riding group to ensure availability for the back groups. We suggest that you visit the Massage
Station as soon as you arrive in camp to avoid disappointment.
17MEDICAL TENT: A Medical Tent is erected at each camp to manage day-to-day ailments. This tent will be manned by a qualified medical person and will have a limited stock of basic medical supplies. BIKE TECHNICIANS AND MAINTENANCE: Bike technicians are based in all the overnight camps to assist with bike repairs. All spares will be charged at an additional cost and will need to be settled directly with the bike technicians. The main brands of bike spares are stocked, so if you require any specialist spares it is important to ensure that you bring these with you. Please note that the bike technicians will do everything possible to assist with getting your bike ready to ride the following day. Please note: It is essential that you bring a spare derailleur hanger with you as these vary from bicycle to bicycle. It is also mandatory to have tubeless conversions for entry into this event. BIKE PARK: A pre-erected bike park will be located at each camp site. Please ensure that your bike is stored in the bike park each evening. Whilst we have not had any theft issues, if you want to be 100% sure on the safety of your bike, we recommend you bring your own combination lock and chain with you. BEAN THERE COFFEE: Bean There has a station set up to prepare a hot drink for you. You can help yourself to tea and coffee. The coffee station is open from 05h00 to 21h00 each evening. NON-RIDING FAMILY MEMBERS: Due to the extensive logistics and costs of operating in these remote areas, we are unfortunately unable to accommodate non-riding family and/or friends. Your family can take advantage of some of the travel options available to visit nearby lodges and camps whilst you are on Tour, and can meet up with you at the end of the event. We are also unable to accommodate non-riding family members for the first and last night’s functions, unless prior arrangements have been made. For further information on various accommodation options in the area please download the Accommodation Options document which can be found on the Nedbank Tour de Tuli Home page. Please take note of the accommodation around the Tour route.
PAYMENT OF CAMP SERVICES:
Bar coupons can be bought at the Hospitality Desk and can be paid for either by cash (SA Rand),
or Visa or MasterCard credit cards. Bike parts can be paid for at the bike mechanic station.
Please note: We do not have facilities for Diners Club or American Express cards.
TIPPING:
Tipping of the local staff is completely at your own discretion. If you want to tip staff please do not
tip them directly or tip using bar tokens as these are non-refundable for the staff, and as a result
of this it causes havoc. We will have a tipping jar available at the support desk and any tips that
you would like to offer to the local staff can be deposited into the jar, to be distributed equitably
amongst the staff.
19ROUTE
OVERVIEW
This year’s route will once again traverse the GMTFCA, which includes Botswana, Zimbabwe and
South Africa. Riding will be predominantly along ancient elephant trails, allowing participants the
opportunity of experiencing wonderful scenery, cultural interaction and seeing wildlife.
Each year the route is altered to ensure that the Tour remains exciting and continues to incorporate
new areas that we are allowed to traverse. We host a Route Launch, which will be held in Johannesburg
at the end of May, when we will go through the riding route in detail. An official invite will be emailed
to all registered participants once the date has been finalised. For those who won’t be able to join
us, we will publish the information on the website and share a link with all registered participants
via email.
WHAT WE CAN TELL YOU:
We traverse three different countries – Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa, and go through
three informal borders.
The riding route takes you through two Parks: Northern Tuli Game Reserve and Mapungubwe
National Park.
Prepare yourself for around 65-85 km of riding per day over the course of four consecutive days. By
the end of day four you will have covered just about 300 km of mountain biking trails.
Expect the unexpected: thick sand, rocky hills, thickets of mopane bushveld, baobabs dotted
around, and last but not least, be on the lookout for wildlife… an elephant here, a giraffe there – and
an impala there too!
2020 OVERNIGHT CAMPS
DATE CAMP COUNTRY
Tues 21 July Mapungubwe Confluence Camp South Africa
Wed 22 July Shashe Wilderness Camp Zimbabwe
Thurs 23 July Amphitheatre Bush Camp Botswana
Fri 24 July Amphitheatre Bush Camp Botswana
Sat 25 July Mapungubwe Confluence Camp South Africa
Sun 26 July Home
21IMPORTANT FACTS TO REMEMBER!
• The route is strenuous, therefore ample training and preparation is required.
• Participants will be riding in hot temperatures, encountering technical areas and riding a fair
amount of kilometres each day.
• Portage over some technical areas may be required.
• Whilst we try to avoid too much sand, the reality is that sand is ultimately unavoidable given the
nature of these areas and the season. These areas are hot, dry and possibly dusty.
• It is a mandatory prerequisite, upon entry, that all bikes have a tubeless conversion. Without this,
the thorns may get the better of you and your pocket as you will incur a R2 500 fine that will be
directly donated to CITW.
• Safety approved riding helmets are compulsory whilst riding on this terrain.
23TRAINING
RECOMMENDATION
If you have entered the Nedbank Tour de Tuli and have not ridden a multi-stage mountain bike event
before, please do not underestimate the amount of training required prior to the start of the Tour.
Poor preparation will mean that you will essentially be ill-equipped to ride, putting tremendous
strain on your body. As a result you will not enjoy the event. The Tour will cover approximately 65-
85km of off-road mountain biking per day over four consecutive days, adding up to approximately
250-300km in total. The back groups could be out on the road for a good eight hours, and therefore
preparing for time in the saddle and endurance riding is essential. Whilst we will have strategic
support approximately every 15km, between these, you will be expected to be self-sufficient. Due
to the fact that the route is predominantly single track, we will not be able to access much of it and
therefore sweeping is not an option for most of this route.
Whilst we will accommodate some form of sweep vehicle it will be allocated specifically for those
who are sick or injured. For others who have entered this event, WE EXPECT YOU TO HAVE
TRAINED AND BE ABLE TO RIDE THE DISTANCE EACH DAY.
PREPARATION OVERVIEW AND WHAT TO EXPECT:
Please ensure that you do the following as part of your preparation for the event:
• Please note that it is mandatory that you ride at LEAST one off-road mountain biking event of 70
km and at LEAST two consecutive long rides, where you spend five hours in the saddle, within at
least nine months of the Tour. This event is not only about distance but also about TIME IN THE
SADDLE. There is no substitute for time spent on your bike.
• Ensure that you have the correct bicycle setup and that you are comfortable on your bike (this
can be done at any of the bike shops).
• Ensure that your bike has had a major service before the event and is in good working order.
• Please note that it is MANDATORY to have a tubeless conversion for this event.
• Ensure that you have a comfortable saddle – you are going to be spending many hours a day on
it – if it is not comfortable for you – experiment with others now.
• Get to know your bike as you need to be self-sufficient on the road. It is imperative that during
your training rides you get to know your bike and familiarise yourself with how to fix minor
technical issues. There are many workshops on offer that can equip you with these skills.
• Learn mountain biking skills and techniques to include the following: basic single track skills,
jumps, how to navigate around obstacles, steep descents, riding in rocky terrain and riding in
sand. Once again there are many workshops that can assist you with learning or developing these
skills. Attend the workshops early so that you can practice these skills during your training rides.
• Experiment with energy supplements to find what works for you and then stick with it.
25TIPS FOR DURING THE EVENT: • Warm up before you start riding – stretches are always a good idea. • Pace yourself to ensure that you are comfortable with the speed of your group. If not, chat to your Tour/Support Leader about moving up or down groups. • Drink small amounts of water regularly. It is going to be HOT. Dehydration is possibly your biggest concern so please ensure that you are drinking adequate amounts of water as well as energy supplement throughout the day. • Eat regularly – we do have a couple of stops each day where you can replenish your food and drink stock as needed. • It is important to stretch your body at the end of each day. • A massage is recommended to get your blood circulating and assist your tired muscles. Please visit the Massage station to book a complimentary appointment as soon as you arrive in camp. • DO NOT RIDE IF YOU ARE SICK OR NOT FEELING WELL! Please do not arrive at the event sick, as the doctors will more than likely not allow you to ride. If you are feeling ill during the event, please visit the medical team at the Medical Tent in each overnight camp. TRAINING PROGRAMMES: We have included training programmes for you to prepare for the Tour. Please see following page.
NEDBANK TOUR DE TULI - 12 WEEK NOVICE TRAINING PLAN
Phase 1: foundation & building blocks (week 1 - 4):
This phase includes the initial familiarisation with the layout of the training plan regarding session types and intensity levels. There is a gradual build in duration with
a brief increase in intensity. This phase forms the building blocks on moving toward the main event. While you may be tempted to do more than what is suggested
here, rather stick to the plan as the durations and intensities will increase to levels that are difficult to manage.
WEEK SESSION TYPE MODE DETAIL DURATION HOURS INTENSITY
1 Endurance ride Road/MTB Talking pace 2 5/10
1 2 Endurance ride MTB Talking pace 2 5/10
3 Group ride Road/MTB Mild effort 3 6/10
7 Hours 5.5/10
1 Endurance ride MTB Talking pace 2 5/10
Varied terrain incl. Hills 4 x 20min
2 2 Hilly ride MTB 2 6/10
(Rest 2min btw reps)
3 Group ride Road/MTB Talking pace 4 5/10
8 Hours 5.5/10
1 Endurance ride Road/MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
2 Tempo ride MTB Sustained intensity of 7/10 for given duration 2 7/10
3
3 Group ride Road/MTB Talking pace 4 5/10
4 (Optional endurance ride Road/MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
10 Hours 6/10
1 Endurance ride Road/MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
Varied terrain incl. Hills 4 x 20min
4 2 Hilly ride MTB 2 7/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
3 Group ride MTB Varied & technical terrain 4 6/10
8 Hours 6/10PHASE 2: STRUCTURE & MAINTENANCE (WEEK 5 - 8):
This forms the crucial portion of the training plan as the highest durations and intensities are experienced in this phase. Primary focus is on overloading and saddle
time. This phase will leave one feeling physically tired and hungry; feed the hunger and work through the tiredness, and it will improve. If feeling overtired or sore,
skip a day but do not make up for lost time. Follow the plan, pain permitting; do not train through pain as it will only get worse!
WEEK SESSION TYPE MODE DETAIL DURATION HOURS INTENSITY
1 Recovery ride ROAD/MTB Flat route - talking pace 1 5/10
2 Endurance ride MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
5
Talking pace incl. FAST PEDALS 6 x 1min
3 Endurance ride MTB 2 6/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
5 Hours 5.5/10
1 Endurance ride MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
6 2 Tempo ride MTB Sustained intensity of 7/10 for given duration 2 7/10
3 Group ride ROAD/MTB Mild effort 3 6/10
7 Hours 6.5/10
1 Endurance ride MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
Varied terrain incl. HILLS 6 x 20min
2 Hilly ride MTB 2 7/10
7 (rest 2min btw reps)
3 Group ride MTB Varied & technical terrain 4 6/10
4 (Optional) endurance ride ROAD/MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
10 Hours 6.5/10
Varied terrain @ 9/10 sustained intensity for given
1 Race pace ride MTB 2 9/10
duration
8
2 Endurance / tempo ride MTB Technical terrain incl. 1hr @ 7/10 & 1hr @ 8/10 4 7/10
3 Group ride MTB Varied & technical terrain 5 6/10
11 Hours 8/10PHASE 3: MAINTENANCE & TAPER (WEEK 9 - 12):
In the final phase, both intensity and duration will decrease. It is crucial that this phase be timed appropriately in order to reap the benefits of the above two
phases. It is important to maintain built-up fitness through this phase; you should be feeling excited as you approach Tour day. Please do not push yourself in this
phase – rather conserve built-up fitness and energy for Tour day. Keep well nourished, hydrated and healthy during this period as this is the phase most are prone
to injury or illness.
WEEK SESSION TYPE MODE DETAIL DURATION HOURS INTENSITY
1 Recovery ride ROAD/MTB Flat route - talking pace 1 5/10
9 2 Endurance ride MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
3 Endurance ride ROAD/MTB Talking pace 2 5/10
5 Hours 5.5/10
1 Endurance ride MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
Varied terrain incl. HILLS 4 x 20min
10 2 Hilly ride MTB 3 7/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
3 Group ride ROAD/MTB Mild effort 4 6/10
9 Hours 6.5/10
1 Recovery ride ROAD/MTB Flat route - talking pace 1 5/10
2 Tempo ride MTB Sustained intensity of 7/10 for given duration 2 7/10
11
Mild effort incl. FAST PEDALS 6 x 1min
3 Endurance ride MTB 2 6/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
4 (Optional) endurance ride ROAD/MTB Talking pace 1 5/10
6 Hours 6/10
1 Tempo ride ROAD/MTB Sustained intensity of 7/10 for given duration 1 7/10
Talking pace incl. FAST PEDALS 5 x 1min
12 2 Pre-race ride ROAD/MTB 1 6/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
3 Tour begins!! 2 6.5/10
HoursNEDBANK TOUR DE TULI - 12 WEEK INTERMEDIATE TRAINING PLAN
Phase 1: foundation & building blocks (week 1 - 4):
This phase includes the initial familiarisation with the layout of the training plan regarding session types and intensity levels / there is a gradual build in duration
with a brief increase in intensity / this phase forms the building blocks on which the plan builds on moving toward the main event / one may experience the need
to do more than what is given, rather stick to the plan as the durations and intensities will increase to levels that are difficult to manage.
WEEK SESSION TYPE MODE DETAIL DURATION HOURS INTENSITY
1 Endurance ride ROAD/MTB Talking pace 2 5/10
2 Endurance ride MTB Talking pace 2 5/10
1
3 Group ride ROAD/MTB Mild effort 3 6/10
4 Endurance ride MTB Technical terrain 2 6/10
9 Hours 5.5/10
1 Endurance ride MTB Talking pace 2 5/10
Varied terrain incl. hills 4 x 20min
2 Hilly ride MTB 2 6/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
2
3 Group ride ROAD/MTB Talking pace 4 5/10
4 Endurance ride MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
10 Hours 5.5/10
1 Endurance ride ROAD/MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
2 Tempo ride MTB Sustained intensity of 7/10 for given duration 2 7/10
3 3 Group ride ROAD/MTB Talking pace 4 5/10
Mild effort incl. fast pedals 6 x 1min
4 Endurance ride MTB 2 6/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
5 (Optional) endurance ride ROAD/MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
12 Hours 6/10
1 Endurance ride ROAD/MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
Varied terrain incl. hills 4 x 20min
2 Hilly ride MTB 2 7/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
4
3 Group ride MTB Varied & technical terrain 4 6/10
4 Endurance ride MTB Mild effort 3 6/10
11 Hours 6/10PHASE 2: STRUCTURE & MAINTENANCE (WEEK 5 - 8):
This forms the crucial portion of the training plan. During this phase the highest durations and intensities are experienced, with primary focus on overloading and
saddle time / this phase will leave one feeling physically tired and hungry, feed the hunger and work through the tiredness, it will improve / if feeling over tired or
sore, skip a day but do not make up for lost time / follow the plan pain permitting, do not train through pain as it will only get worse!
WEEK SESSION TYPE MODE DETAIL DURATION HOURS INTENSITY
1 RECOVERY RIDE ROAD/MTB Flat route - talking pace 1 5/10
2 ENDURANCE RIDE MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
5
3 ENDURANCE RIDE ROAD/MTB Talking pace 2 5/10
Mild effort incl. fast pedals 6 x 1min (rest 2min btw
4 ENDURANCE RIDE MTB 2 6/10
reps)
7 Hours 5.5/10
1 ENDURANCE RIDE MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
2 TEMPO RIDE MTB Sustained intensity of 7/10 for given duration 2 7/10
6
3 GROUP RIDE ROAD/MTB Mild effort 3 6/10
Varied terrain incl. hills 4 x 20min (rest 2min btw
4 HILLY RIDE MTB 2 7/10
reps)
9 Hours 6.5/10
1 ENDURANCE RIDE MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
Varied terrain incl. hills 6 x 20min (rest 2min btw
2 HILLY RIDE MTB 2 7/10
reps)
Endurance (1hr) / tempo @ 7/10 (1HR) /endurance
7 3 TEMPO RIDE ROAD/MTB 3 6/10
(1hr)
4 GROUP RIDE MTB Varied & technical terrain 4 6/10
(OPTIONAL) ENDURANCE
5 ROAD/MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
RIDE
13 Hours 6.5/10
1 RACE PACE RIDE MTB Varied terrain @ 9/10 sustained intensity 2 9/10
2 ENDURANCE RIDE MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
8
3 ENDURANCE / TEMPO RIDE MTB Technical terrain incl. 1hr @ 7/10 & 1hr @ 8/10 4 7/10
4 GROUP RIDE MTB Varied & technical terrain 5 6/10
13 Hours 8/10PHASE 3: MAINTENANCE & TAPER (WEEK 9 - 12):
In this final phase, both intensity and duration will decrease / it is crucial that this phased be timed appropriately in order to reap the benefits of the above two
phases / it is important to maintain built up fitness through this phase and one should experience the feeling of excitement towards Tour day / it is important not
to ride in this phase and rather conserve built up fitness and energy for race day / keep well nourished, hydrated and healthy during this period as this is the phase
most are prone to injury or illness.
WEEK SESSION TYPE MODE DETAIL DURATION HOURS INTENSITY
1 Recovery ride ROAD/MTB Flat route - talking pace 1 5/10
2 Endurance ride MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
9
3 Endurance ride ROAD/MTB Talking pace 1 5/10
Mild effort incl. fast pedals 6 x 1min
4 Endurance ride MTB 2 6/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
6 Hours 5.5/10
1 Endurance ride MTB Mild effort 2 6/10
2 Tempo ride MTB Sustained intensity of 7/10 for given duration 2 7/10
10
3 Group ride ROAD/MTB Mild effort 4 6/10
Varied terrain incl. hills 4 x 20min
4 Hilly ride MTB 3 7/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
11 Hours 6.5/10
1 Recovery ride ROAD/MTB Flat route - talking pace 1 5/10
2 Tempo ride MTB Sustained intensity of 7/10 for given duration 2 7/10
11 3 Endurance ride ROAD/MTB Talking pace 2 5/10
Mild effort incl. fast pedals 6 x 1min
4 Endurance ride MTB 2 6/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
5 (Optional) endurance ride ROAD/MTB Talking pace 1 5/10
8 Hours 6/10
1 Recovery ride ROAD/MTB Flat route - talking pace 1 5/10
2 Tempo ride ROAD/MTB Sustained intensity of 7/10 for given duration 1 7/10
12
Talking pace incl. fast pedals 5 x 1min
3 Pre-race ride ROAD/MTB 1 6/10
(rest 2min btw reps)
4 Tour begins!! 3 Hours 6/10RECOMMENDED
PACKING LIST
The following is a suggested packing list for the mountain bike Tour. Please note that luggage is
restricted to ONE 20kg SOFT TOG BAG that includes all your personal belongings (i.e. no loose
sleeping bags etc.). Your bag MUST be clearly labelled. A combination lock is recommended.
GENERAL ITEMS:
• Passports! (We suggest you carry an original certified copy of your passport in case it gets lost.
Store these in a zip lock bag.)
• Head torch with spare batteries
• Sunglasses
• Spare contact lenses (if applicable)
• Pillow, warm sleeping bag and bottom sheet if required
• Towel for showering
• A good quality torch
• Mosquito repellent
• Malaria prophylactics (at your discretion)
• Personal toiletries
• Sunblock, eye drops and lip balm
• Camera
• Binoculars (a small pair is preferable)
• Cash, credit cards and medical aid card
• Basic medical kit with anti-inflammatory medication, painkillers, anti-histamines and emergency
or personal medication
• Cell phone with pin deactivated (you will need international roaming)
• Space blanket
CAMP CLOTHES:
• Hat or cap
• Warm and cool clothes: the weather will be unpredictable with the days warm to hot and the
nights cold
• Casual wear or track suits for around the campsite
• Good walking shoes or closed sandals for walking around the camps
• Long sleeves and long pants are recommended in case the evenings are chilly
33CYCLING KIT:
• Hydration pack and water bottles (compulsory) – minimum 3 litres carrying capacity
• Helmet (mandatory)
• Cycling kit – 4 sets of clothing for each day of riding – there are no washing facilities (you
will receive one Nedbank Tour de Tuli cycle shirt. We will update you as to whether we receive
sponsorship for a second cycling shirt)
• Arm warmers for the chilly early mornings and to keep the sun off your arms during the day
• Cycling shoes, socks and gloves
• Heart rate monitor (if required)
• A GPS is useful if you have one
• Buff or something similar
RECOMMENDED BIKE SPARES:
• Any Bike specific spares
• Derailleur hanger – each bicycle has a different size derailleur hanger. So please ensure that you
each bring your own spare as if this breaks you will not be able to continue your ride
• Spare sealant, spare tubes and plugs
• Brake pads
• Bike chain and combination lock
• Multi tool and cable ties
• Tyre and shock pump
• Chain breaker and chain links
• Spare cleats (recommended)
• Zip lock bags are useful for storage of bike spares
• Chamois cream
• Gel saddle
• Any specialised bike spares
• Duct tape
We will send an update closer to the event letting you know what sponsored items we have been
able to secure.
35VISA
REQUIREMENTS
The mountain bike Tour travels through Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa – therefore VALID
PASSPORTS ARE ESSENTIAL. The onus is on the participants to ensure that their passports and
visas are valid for these countries. Over and above this, participants must also ensure that their
passports are valid for a minimum of six months from date of entry and that they have two blank
pages in their passport.
You need to carry your passport with you, otherwise you will be declined entry.
We will be crossing informal border posts and will require the following information by no later than
30th April 2020:
• Your full passport information (i.e. name, surname, passport number, date of issue, date of expiry
and nationality). If you need to renew your passport please ensure that this is done in advance
of this date as once the manifest has been submitted, i.e. after 30th April 2020, there cannot be
any changes, substitutions or new entries.
• A colour copy of your passport needs to be sent to us before the event.
• The Event Organisers cannot be held liable for any visas not held by participants or the cost
thereof.
• There are some passport holders that will require a visa for Botswana. If you are a foreign passport
holder please check on the visa requirements for Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa. These
visas will need to be obtained in advance.
• As of this date, South African passport holders do not require visas for Botswana or Zimbabwe.
VISA REQUIREMENTS:
Below are the visa requirements for Botswana and Zimbabwe – correct at the time of publishing. It
is the participant’s responsibility to check with the relevant consulates for updated visa information
as the Event Organisers are not liable for any amendments:
• Any Botswana visa requirements (as per the information below) will need to be obtained directly
from the consulate prior to the Tour.
• Most other non-SA passport holders WILL require a visa for Zimbabwe. We are liaising with the
Zimbabwe authorities to arrange for the Zimbabwe visas to be purchased on site. There will be
costs attached to obtaining a visa and these will be communicated prior to the event.
37BOTSWANA VISA LIST Afghanistan $60.00 Eritrea $60.00 Myanmar (Burma) $60.00 Albania $60.00 Ethiopia $60.00 Nepal $60.00 Algeria $60.00 Fiji Island $60.00 Nicaragua $60.00 Andorra $60.00 Gabon $60.00 Niger $60.00 Armenia $60.00 Georgia $60.00 Nigeria $60.00 Azerbaijan $60.00 Ghana $60.00 North Korea (Dem.People's Rep. of) $60.00 Bangladesh $60.00 Guatemala $60.00 Pakistan $60.00 Burkina Faso $60.00 Guinea $60.00 Palau $60.00 Bosnia and Herzegovina $60.00 Guinea Bissau $60.00 Panama $60.00 Belarus $60.00 Haiti $60.00 Philippines $60.00 Benin $60.00 Honduras $60.00 Rwanda $60.00 Bhutan $60.00 India $60.00 São Tomé and Príncipe $60.00 Bolivia $60.00 Indonesia $60.00 Senegal $60.00 Burundi $60.00 Iran $60.00 Serbia $60.00 Cambodia $60.00 Iraq $60.00 Somalia $60.00 Cameroon $60.00 Jordan $60.00 Sri Lanka $60.00 Cape Verde $60.00 Kazakhstan $60.00 Sudan $60.00 Central African Republic $60.00 Kyrgyzstan (Kirghizia) $60.00 Sumatra $60.00 Chad $60.00 Laos (Peoples Dem. Rep) $60.00 Suriname $60.00 China $60.00 Lebanon $60.00 Syria $60.00 Columbia $60.00 Liberia $60.00 Taiwan $60.00 Comoros $60.00 Libya $60.00 Tajikistan $60.00 Congo $60.00 Macedonia $60.00 Thailand $60.00 Congo (Republic of) $60.00 Madagascar $60.00 Togo $60.00 Congo (Democratic Republic of) $60.00 Mali $60.00 Tunisia $60.00 Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) $60.00 Mauritania $60.00 Turkmenistan $60.00 Djibouti $60.00 Micronesia $60.00 Ukraine $60.00 Ecuador $60.00 Moldova $60.00 Uzbekistan $60.00 Egypt $60.00 Mongolia $60.00 Vatican City $60.00 El Salvador $60.00 Montenegro $60.00 Vietnam $60.00 Equatorial Guinea $60.00 Morocco $60.00 Yemen $60.00
ZIMBABWE VISA LIST ISSUED AT PORT OF ENTRY Albania $30.00 Dominic Rep $30.00 Algeria $30.00 Ecuador $30.00 Andorra $30.00 Egypt $30.00 Argentina $30.00 El Salvador $30.00 Armenia $30.00 Equatorial Guinea $30.00 Austria $30.00 Estonia $30.00 Australia $30.00 Ethiopia $30.00 Azerbaijan $30.00 Finland $30.00 Bahrain $30.00 France $30.00 Belarus $30.00 French Guiana $30.00 Belgium $30.00 French Polynesia $30.00 Bermuda $30.00 French West Indies $30.00 Bhutan $30.00 Georgia $30.00 Bosnia-Herzegovina $30.00 Germany $30.00 Brazil $30.00 Gibraltar $30.00 British Virgin Islands $30.00 Greece $30.00 Brunei Darussalam $30.00 Guam $30.00 Bulgaria $30.00 Guatemala $30.00 Burundi $30.00 Guyana $30.00 Canada* $75.00 single entry Haiti $30.00 Cape Verde Islands $30.00 Honduras $30.00 China** $30.00 Hungary $30.00 Comoros Islands $30.00 Iceland $30.00 Cook Island $30.00 India $30.00 Costa Rica $30.00 Indonesia $30.00 Croatia $30.00 Iran $30.00 Cuba $30.00 Ireland* $55.00 single entry Czech Republic $30.00 Israel $30.00 Denmark $30.00 Italy $30.00
ZIMBABWE VISA LIST ISSUED AT PORT OF ENTRY Japan $30.00 Portugal $30.00 Kazakhstan $30.00 Puerto Rico $30.00 Korea (South) $30.00 Reunion $30.00 Kyrgyzstan $30.00 Romania $30.00 Kuwait $30.00 Russia $30.00 Lativa $30.00 Rwanda $30.00 Liechtenstein $30.00 Samoa (America) $30.00 Lithuania $30.00 San Marino $30.00 Luxemburg $30.00 Sao Tome & Principe $30.00 Macau $30.00 Senegal $30.00 Marshall Islands $30.00 Serbia $30.00 Mexico $30.00 Slovakia $30.00 Micronesia $30.00 Slovenia $30.00 Moldova $30.00 Spain $30.00 Monaco $30.00 Suriname $30.00 Netherlands $30.00 Sweden $30.00 Indonesia $28.33 Switzerland $30.00 Iran $28.07 Tajikistan $30.00 Ireland* $27.81 single entry Turkey $30.00 Israel $27.55 Turkmenistan $30.00 Italy $27.29 Ukraine $30.00 Japan $27.03 United Arab Emirates $30.00 Kazakhstan $26.77 United Kingdom* $55.00 single entry Palestine $30.00 United States of America $30.00 Panama $30.00 Uruguay $30.00 Papua New Guinea $30.00 Uzbekistan $30.00 Paraguay $30.00 Vatican $30.00 Peru $30.00 Venezuela $30.00 Poland $30.00 Virgin Islands $30.00
ZIMBABWE VISA LIST OBTAIN VISA BEFORE TRAVEL Afghanistan Mali Anguilla Mauritania Bangladesh Mongolia Benin Montenegro Bolivia Morocco Burkina Faso Myanmar Cambodia Nepal Cameroon Niger Central Africa Republic Nigeria Chad Oman China (non tour) Pakistan Colombia Philippines Conakry Qatar Congo (Brazzaville) Refugee Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Saudi Arabia Djibouti Rep Sierra Leone Eritrea Somalia Gabon South Sudan Gambia Sri Lanka Guinea Sudan Guinea Bissau Syria Iraq Taiwan Jordan Thailand Korea (DPRK) The Former Yugoslav Republic Of Macedonia Kosovo Togo Laos Tunisia Lebanon Vietnam Liberia Yemen Rep Libya
HEALTH & SAFETY
INFORMATION
Please find below an outline of health and safety information, which is imperative for you to know
in order for you to enjoy a successful Tour.
WILDLIFE ON TOUR:
As we are riding through wildlife areas it is important that you are conscious of the risks involved in
participating in an event of this nature. It is imperative that you as the participant play your part in
mitigating some of these risks.
All the points highlighted below are also included in our indemnity form. However, as your safety is
our concern we would like to reiterate these points to you.
Please ensure that you are well aware of the following:
• Wildlife is a real concern so please follow our guidelines and do not take any unnecessary risks
that may compromise your safety and that of your fellow participants (i.e. stopping close to
wildlife or not listening to your Tour and/or Support Leader).
• Due to the fact that we are riding predominantly on single track, vehicular access to the riding
route may be difficult in some instances. Medical backup may also take some time to get to you
in the event of an injury or an incident. Consequently, we ask that you please SLOW DOWN and
consider the consequences of an injury. We strongly recommend that the fast rocky descents
that you will encounter are ridden by competent riders only.
• Please do not try to ride down a technical area if you are unsure about it. We highly recommend
that you rather walk until you feel comfortable enough to ride again.
• Please DO NOT ride if you are not feeling well.
You need to play your part in your own safety and ensure the EVENT RULES are strictly adhered to:
• Your bike must have a tubeless conversion (this is a mandatory condition of entry and you will be
fined should you arrive without a tubeless conversion).
• Ensure that you are FIT ENOUGH to undertake an event of this nature. Please do not underestimate
the level of fitness required to ride for many hours in high temperatures over four days. Ensure
that you are physically and mentally prepared for this well in advance of the event.
• Please ensure that you have OFF-ROAD BIKING TECHNICAL SKILLS and know how to ride
through technical areas and sand.
43• Please ensure that you wear a helmet and that the helmet clip is fastened at all times whilst riding – no helmet, no ride (gloves are recommended). • It is imperative that your bike board is well fixed to your bike and has your NAME on it. If you change bikes please ensure that your bike board is changed as well (you can get a spare bike board from the Hospitality Desk). • We recommend that all participants carry a space blanket with them. These are cheap, readily accessible and extremely useful. • Please ensure that you carry the basic bike spares required to fix day-to day technical problems. (See our recommended packing list above). • A hydration pack with a minimum water requirement of 3l is also a mandatory requirement for all participants. Riders who do not arrive with a hydration pack will be fined. • We suggest that you ride with your cell phone on flight mode to conserve your battery. • It is also recommended that you carry your cell phone with you with the PIN CODE taken off. IMPORTANT TO KNOW – ALL EVENT EMERGENCY NUMBERS ARE PRINTED ON THE FRONT OF THE BIKE BOARDS MOUNTAIN BIKING AND WILDLIFE: • Stay as tight as possible in your groups, and buddy up with someone in your group so that you are sure you will never be riding on your own. • If one person stops the whole group must pull off the route and wait. • Listen to your Tour Leader and Support Leader, and please do not deviate off the route. TOUR LEADER’S MORNING BRIEF: It is an event rule that every morning your Tour/Support Leader holds a safety brief with all the participants in the group. Please ensure that you listen to this briefing and know what to do in the event of a wildlife encounter or an emergency situation. WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS EN ROUTE: • Firstly – stay calm and don’t attract attention. Wild animals tend to avoid people. • Stop and assess the situation. Chances are whatever you have come across will move off. • Stay still as long as the animals are looking at you. Back away slowly with no sudden movements as soon as their attention is diverted.
• Remember that you are in their territory and their senses are much more attuned than your own.
Chances are that the animal was aware of you before you realised it was there.
• If the animal is close the Tour Leader/Support Leader will use sign language to communicate with
you. Pay attention.
• Participants must pay attention to the Tour/Support Leader’s behaviour and follow all instructions.
• When you do encounter an animal the first thing you must do is maintain your distance.
• If you encounter a dangerous animal DO NOT RUN.
SAFETY MEASURES:
• Participants will be riding in groups of approximately 14 people per group. Each group will have
a Tour Leader and a Support Leader who will be responsible for ensuring that all riders in their
group follow the safety guidelines and that everyone in the group stays in close proximity to each
other.
• Each Tour Leader and Support Leader will be equipped with a bear banger, air horn, radio, GPS
and medical kit.
• Each participant will be provided with a whistle in their registration packs. Please carry it with you
in your back pocket and use it if you encounter any issues, emergencies or if you get separated
from your group.
• Tour Leaders will give a safety briefing to their riders each morning prior to departure. Please
ensure that you are present and pay attention.
• We will have staff located in the areas of high concern to monitor and communicate any
noteworthy situations and wildlife activity.
PLEASE FOLLOW THE SAFETY PROTOCOL BELOW:
• You must stay in your allocated groups. One stops – you all stop.
• Please ensure that all bikes have tubeless conversions.
• Please listen to your Tour/Support Leaders and adhere to their recommendations.
• Please do NOT stop close to wildlife.
• If you are uncomfortable riding a specific technical area, rather get off your bike and walk.
• Ensure you are drinking water regularly as well as applying sun screen throughout the day.
45GENERAL CAMP SAFETY: We are camping in unfenced wilderness areas. Please ensure that you adhere to the following recommendations to ensure your safety: • Always carry a torch with you at night and wear shoes. Closed shoes in the evenings are highly recommended. • Keep your tent zipped at all times. • Please don’t walk out of camp. If you do, please let an official know and take someone with you. MALARIA: As we will be travelling through malaria-prone areas, please consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylactics. All malaria medication is taken at your own discretion. We have chosen to travel at a dry time of the year, when the risk of malaria is low. There is also less prevalence in remote areas where our camps are situated, nonetheless, you need to consider whether or not you would like to take preventative measures. If you decide not to take prophylactics please ensure that you see a doctor if any fever or flu-like illness develops within a month after the event and travel, and advise the doctor accordingly. Please remember: The best way to avoid malaria is to not get bitten. Please bring your own mosquito repellent such as Peaceful Sleep or Tabard. It is also advisable to wear long sleeves and long pants in the evenings. HYDRATION: • The days will be HOT. Dehydration is your biggest concern. Please ensure that you carry ample fluid with you at all times (minimum of 2 – 3 litres). • Water and energy supplement will be available in the evenings, mornings and at the Tea and Brunch Stops. Ensure that you replenish sufficiently. It will be your own responsibility to ensure your body is well hydrated. WATER IN STREAMS AND RIVERS: • All drinking water provided during the Tour will be bottled or purified, and safe to drink. • Please do not drink from rivers, streams or the hand-washing stations in camp.
CROCODILES:
• If we are lucky there might still be some water left in some of the rivers that we will cross.
• Whilst it is tempting to swim and enjoy these rivers, please be AWARE that crocodiles inhabit
these rivers. If you do decide to swim in any river, please do so with extreme caution and note
that you do so at your OWN RISK.
SUN EXPOSURE:
• Whilst we will be traveling in late winter, the days will be extremely hot.
• Heat exhaustion and dehydration are possibly the two most serious concerns. It is important to
prepare for this by wearing appropriate clothing and protection.
• We recommend that you use a high factor sun cream and reapply this throughout the day.
• Buffs are also useful for sun protection.
• The Tea, Brunch and Strategic Stop Vehicles will all be equipped with sun cream for re-application
if needed during the course of the day.
FITNESS AND PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS:
We are travelling through remote wilderness areas. Please ensure that you are fit and healthy
enough to participate in a multi-stage mountain bike event covering approximately 300 km over
four days of intense mountain biking in high temperatures. Please DO NOT enter this event if you
have any pre-existing medical conditions that may be triggered with intense exercise, and if you
do not intend to train prior to the event. If you do have any pre-existing medical conditions please
ensure that you get the go-ahead from your doctor prior to entering this event. Medical treatment
is not easily accessible; therefore ensure that you are in “showroom” condition. If you are under 16
years of age or over 69 years of age, we will be asking for a medical certificate from your doctor
prior to your participation advising that you are able to participate in an event of this nature. We
are doing this for your own wellbeing.
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