Gear

[Dale]

What are we going to be required to take in our packs? Will we receive any prerace package or do we have to return to this sight for information?

[Alina]

A gear list will be posted on the web shortly.  The web will also be updated with information on checkpoints, feed stations etc.  You will also receive an email closer to the event with pre-race information.  A copy of this will also be posted on the web.

[Steve]

Question for Alina,
I'd like to know whether the Mandatory gear needs to be carried at all times or whether the things like the Thermals, Headtorch, Beanie, Space Blanket and Reflexion bands can be left in a drop bag for the night section ?   (for me it'd me CP4 - to play safe)

Cheers
Steve

[Dale]

I note that you require a head torch to be carried. After many night runs and trialling head torches I find that the small hand torch fits my requirements much better. Will this suffice or do I have to buy another torch for the check in which I will not use? I also want to have details of the kind of tights which are required.

[Rod]

Good to see the RD is hard at work answering all runners queries. 

Hopefully this is being read at HQ and something that might be useful for mandatory equipment is a whistle.  It is not on the list, but should be a must have item.

[Alina]

so just to answer a few things:
1. You have to carry all the mandatory gear all the time.  You can however change over lights, jackets etc at the checkpoints.  For example you might have a stronger light that you pick up at the CP and swap it with the smaller light you were carrying.  The weather can change very quickly in the Blue Mountains, especially in mid May.  the route is also quite remote.  You need to be self sufficient if for some reason you need assistance as such assistance may take a while to get to you.
2. A whistle is part of the mandatory gear - the gear list will be updated shortly.
3. You can use a hand torch rather than a head torch.  You need sufficient light to see the track and the markers.
4. As for 'tights' - the requirement is to carry (or wear) a pair of thermal pants.  These are pants made from polypropelene, wool blend, - ask in an outdoor stor for 'thermal' pants.  Lycra pants do not meet this requirement.
Hope the training is going well!
cheers
alina