Rider Briefing | Shimano MTB QLD Townsville

Racing isn’t (just) about how long it takes you to get from the start to the finish.
It’s (also) about the adventureyou have along the way, the people you meet and the unique moments you share.

We are launching Rocky Trail cross-country racing in Northern QLD in Townsville and with thanks to the support from Townsville Enterprise Limited! It’s very challenging times to say the least, which require a very specific set of event and racing rules in order to keep racing, so please take the time to watch or read through this entire rider briefing.

We have been working towards this event for over a year and with all the COVID-19 disruptions it has felt like a big build up. The Mount Douglas Reserve MTB trails have been Townsville’s premier MTB destination for many years, and we are especially pumped to be bringing racing onto these hallowed tracks with the endorsement by the local Rockwheelers MTB Club.

Bob Morris, Race Director

The Rocky Trail crew delivered a COVID safe Shimano MTB Grand Prix in South East Queensland last month. All planned procedures worked well, with all competitors, spectators and supporters complying and adhering to our rules and recommendations, everyone had a truly enjoyable day out on the ‘rocky trails’ – we want to communicate all procedures in details ahead of the race so that we’ll all be on the same page on the day and can focus on riding and racing together out in nature.

It will be great to see all our cross country racing friends and meet some new ones – and to help resurrect the Hot Rock race together with and for the local club!

Cheers, Bob

---

VIRTUAL RIDER BRIEFING

---

RIDER BRIEFING CONTENT IN WRITING

We are so grateful for the outpour of support and enthusiasm by our Rocky Trail riders and community over the last few weeks and months.
We have been one of the first and few MTB events organisers back globally running races post the Covid19 outbreak and all eyes continue to be on us. We need your cooperation.

How are we running this event and how do we keep you safe? By limiting the rider field to 300 per day you can see right away that we will err on the side of caution. So please understand that whilst some rules might appear harsh, our main aim is to ensure a safe and professional event environment so we can keep racing in this new world.

A lot of thought has gone into this Rider Briefing and we expect all competitors and non-racing visitors to comply with how this event will be run. It is very challenging and a privilege to host this event and participate in this race – we appreciate your cooperation.

• We are tracking all event participants – non-racing supporters and ANY visitor at the venue are required to sign in for an Event Access Wristband ahead of the race or on the day via these links:

• IMPORTANT: we understand completely that these are difficult and complex times and therefore, if you feel anxious, unsure or not comfortable to participate in this event, please contact us via ride@rockytrailentertainment.com and we WILL REFUND your entry, no questions asked.

It’s a new way of “Running events in a Covid World” says our Managing Director, Martin Wisata, in his blog from 21 July 2020, which requires us as a diligent events promoter as much as it requires engaged event participants. Read more…

ABOUT: EVENT FORMAT

The Shimano MTB GP’s are cross-country endurance lap racing at its best!

Race for four (GP4) or seven (GP7) hours solo, in relay pairs or teams of three.
The Shimano MTB GP’s events are all about ‘seriously fun racing’!
Podium chasers can line up with Australia’s elites and experienced amateur endurance racers plus casual racers will have a blast, all feeling safe and part of an inspiring community.

For those of you, for whom this will be the first Rocky Trail event, we differ from most other events by offering a much more relaxed format. For the Shimano MTB GP specifically the race format is as follows:

• Most laps per solo rider or team in the least amount of time wins.
• There are age-group and eBike categories.
• Expect less of a winners-only-focused competition, but a positive and inclusive experience for all racers.
• Our staff at rego and at the starts are there to help. Talk to them.
• Please note – we are Covid Safe compliant, your briefing will be virtual, we’ll be social distancing, the medal ceremony will be virtual and we’ll make this the safest event you’ve ever been at!

We can wait to see you smashing it! – Remember, your race photos are included in your entry, be sure to download them after the race and share your stories using:

#rockytrailracer

#shimanomtbgp

---

ABOUT: TOWNSVILLE Venue

Event centre and parking location: Mount Douglas Reserve – Angus Smith Dr, Douglas QLD 4814

Race tracks used:

• Leaving the Event Hub we will roll down together to the start area on the Fruit Loop fire trail.
• A mass start at 9am heads up the “Fruit Loop” track which is wide for approximately 800m.
• From “Fruit Loop’ we will utilise the “Creeks” track to get across to “Easy Street” which climbs to “Hayden’s Hump”.
• Riders will then traverse out “Beefwood” and use the “Ridgeline Jump bypass” to join “Whiptail” and then traverse back to “Haydens Hump”.
• From here riders descend “Rock n Roll 2&3” and “Jump Street” using the B-Lines to return to the event hub and transition.
• Course length is approximately 7.6km, it has 110m elevation change and approximately 280m climbing in total.

What can you expect;

• A well-marked course
• A & B line options in the more technical sections
• Caution signs in technical areas
• A large transition area
• Online rider briefing prior to event
• Music, food and medical service in case something doesn’t go to plan
• Easy registration
• And a supportive community

Come along and join the team to make the inaugural Shimano MTB GP Hot Rock a great success for the Region!

Services and facilities:

Venue and Race Track Map: please visit the event website

Parking: A section of the Douglas Mountain Bike Reserve parking space will be utilised as the Event Hub. Additional parking will be available along Angus Smith Dr.

Catering: Rocky Trail is stoked to have a local food service provider and we strongly encourage all locals get behind and support them.

“The Feel Good Foodie” street food crew will be on site for all catering needs

Event Services:

• First Aid in event centre and marshals out on track
• Portable toilets

Emergency contacts:

Race Director – Bob Morris 0458 299 558
Event Manager & Media Liaison – Jo Parker 0424 955 332

---

IMPORTANT EVENT DETAILS YOU MUST KNOW

1. If any of the following applies please contact us immediately.
   We will transfer or refund your entry but you CAN NOT PARTICIPATE in the event:
   1. If you live or have been to a published Covid-19 Hot Spot – please check the Hot Spot list here
   2. If you are showing any signs of the cold or flu
   3. If you have even the slightest fever (we have facilities on site to test and will send you home immediately if you have fever)
   4. Find out more information about the QLD border restrictions
   5. Again, we understand completely that these are difficult and complex times and therefore, if you feel anxious, unsure or not comfortable to participate in this event, please contact us via ride@rockytrailentertainment.com and we WILL REFUND your entry, no questions asked.
      
2. There are a few important changes on how we run things on the day:
   1. ACCESS:
      • Douglas MTB Reserve has a huge trail network with many uses. The Shimano GP used only a limited selection of the trail network. Other non-racers are welcome to use the available, remaining tracks but are requested to check with the rocky trail crew in the Event Hub to assist in identifying them.
      • If you are a non-racer, please check in at the Rego tent as a supporter/visitor.
      • We are marking the track and event centre on Friday. You can practice, but we won’t have any services (marshals, first aid) in place.
   2. ARRIVAL & PARKING: When you arrive you will be directed to the lower car park areas.
      • When you arrive follow the signs to the parking area.
      • We need to maximise parking in this area so please ensure you park as close as possible to the car next to you and keep the road clear in and out.
      • Do not drive past/over bunting tape, it has been put there for a reason.
      • If you are setting up a tent for riders you must respect the 4m2 rule so under a 3×3 tent there can only be 2.25 people.
   3. RACE PROCEDURES: You can pick up your race plate with the timing chip between 7.15am and 8:45am.
      • This way we avoid queues near the registration area.
      • If you are late, don’t worry, come to see us at the rego tent and we will assist you. You can still have your race and we’ll explain it all to you then.
      • 8:45am Rider call up, be race ready.
      • The official rider briefing usually held before the race start is replaced by this communication.
      • Riders will need to follow signs to the start.
      • Riders are asked to self-seed into the large start grid area. Please ensure social distancing is maintained through this process.
      • Most laps per solo rider or team in the least amount of time wins.
   4. EVENT START SCHEDULE – changes due to COVID19-measures apply!
      • 9:00am Race start – Riders to self-seed into the large start grid area, please follow signage and instructions by our crew.
        • Please remember to observe social distancing throughout this process, we’ll be there to assist.
        • The simplest way is to remember to do it in a single file leaving a bike length between each other.
   5. EVENT FINISH: You cannot start another until those cut-off race finish times.
      • 1:00pm Race finish – GP4 Solo and Teams
      • 4:00pm Race finish – GP7 Solo and Teams
      • You complete the lap you are on after the above stated finish time, it counts towards your result still.
   6. RACING & ETIQUETTE: Please adhere to SOCIAL DISTANCING rules!
      • Again, when you are gridding up at the start line, please do it in a single file leaving a bike length between each other.
      • No hand-shaking permitted at event.
      • Please understand that we need to be very strict on this . Non-compliance will result in revoking race access or disqualification.
   7. CHEERING: Keep 4m distance to the race track!
      • If you ‘hackle’ or encourage other riders on their race run please do so at least 4m away from the race track.
      • Shouting is a known source of virus transmission and we MUST minimise the risk there. Non-compliance will result in revoking race access or disqualification.
   8. RESULTS & CEREMONY:
      • approx 5:00pm Last Rider and Sweeper across the line and event finishes.
      • Race results are LIVE throughout the day.
      • Access race results via the website.
      • There won’t be an official CEREMONY to comply with social distancing laws. We will publish a virtual podium with winner photos as soon as we have those.
      • IMPORTANT: CHECK YOUR RACE RESULTS as soon as you cross the line! The top three podium getters in each age category will receive a podium meal – pick those up from the rego tent, please!
      • Giveaways to every racer: pick a RedBull or Rocky Trail Bandanna at rego.
   9. FACILITIES & SERVICES:
      • Water: Please bring your own drinking water – we will not have shared water.
      • Catering: will be on-site; please adhere to strict social distancing rules when ordering and waiting for your order. Please follow our crew and staff directions at all times.
      • Toilets: there will be portable toilets on-site and we will service it regularly. Disinfectant and wipes will be provided.
      • First Aid: will be based in the event centre and roaming out on track.
      • Mechanic: neutral support and parts will be available from MTB Mechanic.
   10. PERSONAL HYGIENE:
       • No ‘snot rockets’ (blowing your nose without a tissue) in the vicinity of other people.
       • Hand washing stations and sanitation stations are available at the venue.
       • Please regularly clean your hands with an alcoholic-based hand rub or wash hands with soap and water (especially after going to bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing).
       • Riders and visitors are encouraged to wear (cycling) gloves when picking up number plates.
       • Unless from the same family, we discourage you from car-pooling to the venue.
   11. PARTICIPANT TRACKING:
       • Every person at the event (including non-racers) need to register.
       • Racers will be track with race plates.
       • Non-competitors will be issued a Race Access pass.

Schedule Quick Reference Guide

Friday
All day The track is being marked and you can practice on it but we won’t have any services (marshalls, first aid) in place.

Saturday
7:15-8:45 am Registration open to pick up your number plate.
8:45am Rider call up, be race ready.
The official rider briefing usually held before the racestart will be available online before the race.

9:00am Race start 

approx. 11:00am Kids race – See details below

1:00pm Race finish – GP4 Solo and Teams
4:00pm Race finish – GP7 Solo and Teams

approx 5:00pm Last Rider and Sweeper across the line and event finishes.
Ceremony – We will have a virutal ceremony for all categories online after the event

About Rocky Trail Kids Races

May we ask that you register the kids (as other non-racing visitors) via the Event Access/Spectator Rego online ahead of Saturday. On the day, sign the kids in at the rego tent from around 10:30am and we’ll give you all the details. We plan to do a short time-trial and have options for different age groups. It’s a very easy-going little ride/race – the main thing is for the little shredders to have fun, get involved (and tired!) and most importantly: eeeeeveryone’s a winner! 😉♥🎈🚲🌼

• 

• 

• 

• 

Rider List and Results

From now on and all weekend you can find links to Rider List and LIVE Results via the drop-down menu from the Logan event page on our website! You can check these now and throughout the weekend via your mobile devices – to reduce touch points we will not have any public display computers on-site.

---

Enforcement of COVID Safe Plan

If we see blatant breaches of those rules we will ask you to leave the event. You are not only potentially endangering other racers, but also the future of our business.

We recommend but won’t enforce that all event participants use the Covid Safe App to assist health authorities with tracking potentially.

Please understand that the team won’t shake hands, hug, high five or fist bump anyone and will be trying keep some distance to all riders during registration, start and finish. There will be a lot socially distance elbow bumps from us, which is almost as good 🙂

Download the full Covid-19 Safety Plan below and here is a summary:

RACE RULES

The usual race rules still apply as always. In summary:

• You need to stay on the race track. No cheating or ‘sneaky pro lines’ where you leave the track and re-enter.
• Don’t litter – please take your rubbish back with you or throw it in the landfill or recycling bins we have near the registration tent.
• There are 3 portable toilets at the event centre, which we will clean and disinfect during the day. Please let us know if they need a clean.
• Timing will be done with your timing chip – please ensure it is on your bike and that the plastic doesn’t touch any metal parts of your bike (e.g. don’t wrap the number plate around your handlebar).
• If you need to pass a rider out on track please do it in a friendly and safe way. Keep in mind that you have multiple runs per track so if you get held up you can always have another go.
• You agreed to our RACE WAIVER when you registered online – here is a link to the RACE WAIVER again
• Click here for DETAILED RACE RULES

OTHER EVENT INFORMATION

Continuing its support and focus on rebuilding the events sector, Townsville Enterprise was proud to provide funding assistance to secure the competition in Townsville.

“Townsville Enterprise is thrilled to assist in bringing Rocky Trail Mountain Bike Racing to Townsville through funding supplied by the Townsville North Queensland Bid Fund.”

Townsville Enterprise Tourism Director, Lisa Woolfe

“Over two weekends, it’s anticipated the events will inject $480,000 into Townsville’s economy generated by over 800 event attendees and 1500 guest nights.

“This exciting competition comes off the back of a fortnight of major events held in our city and will again provide a much-needed uplift to our local tourism, hospitality and accommodation sector which has been doing it so tough from the impacts of COVID-19.

Destinaton & Plan your trip

Be sure to check out the many activities and experiences in the region and two awesome accommodation offers!

Event accommodation partners

Please book directly with these hotels to receive the special #rockytrailracer rates – please mention that you are part of the Rocky Trail events and you’ll receive the pricing as outlined below. Cheers.

City Oasis Inn

The Ville Resort Casino

Mariners North Apartments

We would like to thank the Townsville Enterprise for their event support.

Get ready for the massive surge of adrenaline when you drop into your time race stages. When you rail those berms and fly across the trails, crossing the finish line with your heart pumping. You’re alive. You’re doing what you love. And that’s why Rocky Trail exist. So that you can RACE the way you RIDE.

---

Do you have any questions?

Talk to us via our online chat – click on the orange circle symbol on your bottom right screen corner and we’ll be right with you! (We always love talking bikes, racing and riding!)

See. You. Soon.