New to Open5 events? - Page 1 of 3
New to Open5 events?
We do try and keep things simple but invariably we get a good number of questions before events and on the day from those new to this kind of events. This little article will take you step by step through the day.
Before the event:
Even if you are local to the event it will invariably be an early start on the Sunday morning. It’s a good idea to sort out your kit well before the weekend. Do you have all of the mandatory kit listed in the rules? First Aid kit, Whistle, etc.
What about your bike? If you are going to get it serviced don’t do it in the week before the event or if you do make sure you take it out for a few hours off road before the day. If you need to hire a bike give us a shout at Open Adventure and we can often point you in the direction of a hire company that can deliver to the event.
Sleep well.
The morning:
Time whizz’s by so we recommend you arrive early. Park your car and come to registration. At registration you will receive a double sided A4 map, running / MTB numbers, and an electronic device called a Sportident (SI) dibber which is attached to your wrist.
The SI dibber is used to record when you started, finished and which control points you visited on the event. If you find yourself competing in number of similar events each year, you can buy a SI dibber from http://www.sportident.co.uk
The map we issue has a Ordnance Survey (OS) 1:50000 map on one side with the MTB controls (points you have to visit) already pre-printed. On the other side is an OS 1:25000 map with the foot controls pre-printed.
In the registration hall you will find A3 versions of these maps on the wall with some comments on trail conditions and access. Have a careful look at these as it will help you on your way.
Disappear back to your car to collect your bike and any kit you might need for the day, food, drinks, clothing, spare shoes. Occasionally the start is right near the car park so you can leave stuff in the car, on other occasions the start is a short cycle away so you might need to be able to carry anything you might need at the transition e.g. running shoes, extra food, etc.