Desert Storm is just around the corner.Known as NZ's favourite 2 day trail ride the event promises to deliver the fun mix of trail riding, entertainment and camping that has been Desert Storm since it's inception in 2000.
The trails available are West 53km, Middle 12km, East 63km, Novice 10km plus 3 kids tracks near the base. The event features over 10 optional ‘expert' sections that will provide technical challenge for above average riders. One section named ‘Erzberg' after an international Enduro is really challenging as riders have to literally ride on about 3km of rock strewn river bed to get near the winter snow line on the mountain. All merchandise, meals and other orders close at 10pm tonight so people wishing to grab some event gear or meals need to get to www.epicevents.co.nz asap. So far there are 750 riders entered with 50 riders per day entering over the last week as people scramble to purchase the final tickets. Entries are limited to 1100 riders and by pre entry only. Entries are still open until Wednesday 12 Jan at 10pm. More info at www.epicevents.co.nz or 021 983766
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Five teams of 2 people on quads have been working this week to complete the final mark out of the 140km of trail on offer. Because the event takes place in the foothills of the rugged and wind swept Mount Ruapehu there are always branches and a few rocks to clear, tree roots to dazzle and just general trail grooming to be done.
On Saturday afternoon the event features a High jump, Enduro X and Barrel racing competition. The Enduro X track has been revised with an island landing in the middle of a creek, 4 vertical tyres, bigger berms and bigger jumps. Mark Delatour is the course builder and also a very good Enduro X rider who will probably make the final four come Saturday night.