Adventure Taupo: Quality field for New AR Race

New Zealand's newest adventure racing series the "Kiwi Summer" is set to get off to a great start on the 15/16th of December with a quality field building up. In the absence of Orion Health at the prestigious Abu Dhabi Adventure Race, the field will be spearheaded by the internationally experienced Powered by Velvet Squad of Rhys Burns, Sonya Clark, George Christenson and Chris Morrissey. Powered by Velvet who had their race plans somewhat curtailed by cancellations in the latter half of 2007 will be seeking to make a point when they take to the water, hills and bush of the Taupo region. And while they may be most closely matched by some of the more experienced teams in the field the real fascination will be just how well the significant youth element can compete.

The race will be the debut of New Zealand's first designated youth adventure racing team, the VASQUE U23's, which will feature Andrew Turnbull, Rosy Taylor, Thomas Reynolds and a rig in for this race Martin Peat. These guys are only the icing on the cake though in the rise of youth AR. Strong teams will also be participating from Hillary Challenge champions New Plymouth Boys and Girls High Schools, Opunake High School, Auckland Grammer and Thames High School as well as a rumoured entry from the newly formed Hawkes Bay youth team. These "kids" are out to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Aaron Prince and Anna Berthelson and dispel a myth that young people can't handle AR. Powered by Velvet watch your back!!

The Adventure Taupo race features a unique format that captures the traditional appeal of adventure racing: an incredible journey, with an intense teamwork challenge in an amazing landscape and breaks down some of the key barriers to participation: teams are self supporting, teams sizes are very flexible, kayaks are optional and there is no travel at night (instead a social overnight campsite is part of the event experience). The course this year has 7 stages: 4 treks, 2 bikes and a kayak, special features include coasteering and snorkelling sections. There is 10 hours travel on the first day and five on the second. Using optional checkpoints the organisers are able to ensure that all teams recieve an appropriate challenge for their ability.

Teams of all levels have entered the event which promises to be a celebration of adventure and the Taupo area, don't miss out! In the spirit of the event the organisers have waived applicable late fees to encourage as many people as possible to bite the bullet and have a go at this unique team sport. More information can be found at www.madeventz.co.nz/kiwisummer