The multi-lap relay mountain bike event is back at Jack's Point near Queenstown for the third time on Saturday 8th December with a focus on team camaraderie in one of the region's most spectacular locations.
Race Director Geoff Hunt says 8hrs@Jacks is inspired by a demand from elite and recreational mountain bikers for a unique endurance event in the Wakatipu.
"This concept sees individuals and teams of two, three or four members competing on a seven to eight kilometre course through Jack's Point over a period of 8 hours,"
"The track is one which has been created specifically for the event and traverses areas through rocky outcrops and even a small gum forest on the northern edge of the development before returning to the internal 8hrs@Jacks base camp trails."
Teams will compete in Junior, Open (men's, women's or mixed) and Veteran (men's, open and mixed) sections. One rider per team rides a lap then tags a team mate and elite riders are expected to complete the lap in about 35 minutes and the recreational competitors 45 minutes.
"It is an exhilarating course in a fantastic environment and a chance to get a good strong ride in early in the season," says Hunt. "It's a good race for experienced riders but also for people who are just getting into mountain biking. There's plenty of opportunity for speed, some good technical sections and the great views certainly get you absorbed as well."
Hunt is excited about staging the event for the third year and particularly the location.
"The views from Jack's Point of both Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains are stunning. Some sections will wind between trees and matagouri scrubs on a single lane trail while other uphill areas will allow passing opportunities for faster riders."
"We believe this year the event will attract a lot of interest because of its emphasis on fun and camaraderie. The social activities at Jack's Point during and following the race will be relaxing and enjoyable and the race should appeal to a cross section of mountain bike enthusiasts."
The prize giving will be held at Jack's Point Clubhouse following the event.
Patagonia outdoor clothing and footwear company is the head sponsor for the 8hrs@Jacks, and the event is also supported by Jacks Point Resort, Export 33 and NZbyBike.
Details of the race are available on the web site www.southerntraverse.com/jacks8hrs.
