EVENT DAY
THERE WILL BE NO ENTRIES ON THE DAY.
Registration & start times
Children pick up their reflector bands at registration, then receive a medal when they finish their course. Any event merchandise ordered will be given out at registration.Times below are for events EXCEPT Christchurch - which will have 9 different registration times - see relevent pages.
9.30 - 10.10am: Long course
10.15 - 10.45am: Medium course
10.45 - 11.10: Short course
There will be a briefing just before each category starts. EVERYONE must attend, so make sure you are there and listening hard!
- Long course
- Medium course
- Short course
For details of courses go to general event page.
Most courses are on MT Bike tracks which tend to be ‘single track’. To help reduce congestion we will do the following;
Courses will (where possible) start with a wide section to spread riders out
Riders will start in the following order
- Boys
- Girls
- Those riding with parents, or on trailer bikes
NB; Confident girls can choose to ride with the boys.
Waves
Within the groups there will be ‘waves’ of about 20 riders, we recommend that those wanting to go flat out position themselves near the front while those wanting to cruise go further back.
Rules
- Bike helmets and suitable shoes must be worn.
- Parent must accompany children 6 years and under around the course. Parent can ride, walk or run.
- Parents can accompany children 7+ on the medium and long courses BUT child and parent will have to go to the back of the group . This is because many of the courses are single track and parent with child makes it hard for others to over take.
- In the interests of safety and security the start and finish areas are restricted to participants only.
- Marshals and arrows/ tape will be on the course to direct you. You must obey their instructions.
- The race directors decision on all race matters is final.
- Bikes need to be checked BEFORE the day, as due to Sunday trading there will not necessarily be a Bike shop at the Jams.(NB: We do not require a written certificate from the shop.)
Prizes
Everyone that completes the course will get a MEDAL.
There will also be spot prizes which will be given out after each group arrives back from their ride.
To be eligible for a spot prize you need to be present on the day.
There will be NO prizes for place getters as the emphasis is not on winning but giving it a go and completing the course.
Weather & clothing
Rain is always a possibly in New Zealand, so please check the weather forecast in the morning and if rain is predicted please make sure your child has; water proof jacket, gloves (if likely to be cold), trainers or other closed in shoes.
Warm dry clothing and a change of shoes for after is also a good idea!
Falling off is a distinct possibly when mountain biking, so we strongly recommend children wear either long leggings or knee length shorts, plus long sleeved tops, as the most likely injuries are cuts and grazes.
We also recommend gloves if you have them.
Caps / beanies are NOT to be worn under helmets!
Safety
Qualified first aid will be at the venue and marshals will be out on the course.
Helmets - these must be worn and done up correctly
Parking
For the safety of all competitors, vehicle access at the venues may be restricted, so please obey parking instructions. Children should not ride their bikes in the parking area.
Suggestion: pack a picnic or a BBQ and enjoy the day.
Fire
Many of the courses are in forest areas, where there may be fire risk. Any restrictions must be adhered to.
Suitable Bikes
Almost any pedal bike can be used but we will not accept bikes with trainer wheels or balance bikes. Gears are not required, however, brakes are needed, and we would also recommend knobbly tyres.
