DB1k 2009
Seems there is a bit of interest in running the DB1k again. For those that don't know it was developed to be a 1000km route that is over 50% gravel that can be attempted in 24 or less hours.
Last year we had 8 complete the route in 1 day with the fastest group doing it in 17ish hours, another group taking 20ish hours and the last group taking 23 hours. There was also a group of about 6 or so that did the route in two days.
The only thing we need to organise this year is the date we run it. The 1 day guys need as much light as possible cause riding in the dark through dust is pretty hard work. This suggest that we need to run as close to the summer solstice (22 Dec 08) as possible. I reckon the 3rd and 4th of Jan would be a good weekend but want to know what others think. If you are keen please vote in the attached poll.
Other things to know
- The 2 day guys camp somewhere around St Arnaud for the night. We are currently investigating camping at the same stations' shearing shed as last year. There is a good chance that camping gear will be able to be taken between Nelson and St Arnaud by vehicle so you dont have to carry it.
- If there is enough interest tea on the first night could be provided for the 2 day guys for a fee.
- If doing the ride in one day it is best to be in small groups of riders (2 or 3) that all ride at a similar pace and have a similar stamina level.
- This is not an organised ride so there is no costs to do the ride. To get through the Rainbow Road there is a charge of $15 for a motorbike.
- Again this is not an organised ride so you are on your own regarding punctures, breakdowns etc. Make sure you have everything you need to do the ride including good tyres, clean air filter, tools, puncture repair kit, food, water etc etc
- For a very large proportion of the route there is no cell phone coverage so making sure others know where you are at all times is essential.
- You need a fuel range of at least 250kms
- Stickers will be offered to all who complete the ride for a small charge - about $5
- Anybody and everybody who is capable of the ride is most welcome - this ride is not limited to KB members only
A Google earth file of the route, six 1:250,000 topomaps that show the whole route and twelve detailed (1:50,000) topomaps that show where more tricky bits of the route are. I've put up the roll chart up as well and GPS files as well. All of the files can be found on my website - DB page here.
So for now please post if you and your mates are interested (let me know the numbers), if you want to do the 1 day or 2 day and also please use the poll to give me an idea of when would be a good date for you to do the ride.
If you want to have a read about the 2008 run check out this thread. Zukin wrote a really cool article - you may have already read it in Kiwirider.
Cheers R
Edit 1 - Link to page with DB info added
Edit 2 - Ride Date
Seems it might be time to put a line in the sand and set the date of the ride.
The 1 Day DB1k will be on the 3rd of January 2009.
The 2 Day DB will be on the 3rd and 4th of January 2009.
It is very likely there will be a Waitangi weekend ride following the same or a similar course but I'll leave that for others to put together.
Edit 3 - Calendar
Please add your name to the calendar if you are planning on doing the DB1k.
One day run calendar here - run on the 3rd Jan 09.
Two day run calender here - run on the 3rd/4th Jan 09.
Edit 4 - 2 Day Accommodation
Will be in the Nelson Rowing Club Lodge at Lake Rotoroa. Padmei has kindly organised access to the lodge. Cost will be $10 per person for the night. There is a good chance that vehicle will be traveling between NN and Lake Rotoroa that will be able to carry food, beers, camping gear etc.
Edit 4 - Pre Ride Event (dinner)
There will be a BBQ tea at Warewolfs place on the eve of the DB1k i.e. 2nd Jan. It is BYO meat and drinks and gold coin koha for salads which will be provided. Start will be around 5.30pm. Basic workshop facilities will be available. If you dont know where Warewolf lives send him or myself a PM. This is the only time that all the DB1k riders will be able to meet so I suggest that you all come along. Also I'll hold a short briefing re current route info, expected weather etc etc.
WW has put up an event on the Calendar here
Edit 5 - Rainbow Cost Increase
The cost to go through the Rainbow has increased to $15 from $10 of last year.
Edit 6 - Sunday Brunch
On Sunday the 4th, between 1100 and 1200, the one dayers (and really keen two dayers) will be meeting at Lambretta's Cafe Bar (located here) for brunch.
Edit 7 - Roll Chart and GPS files now up.
Check out the DB1k page here
Edit 8 - Ride participation stickers.
As for the previous two years stickers will be available. They will be selling for $5 a pop, first in first served. Any profit will be given to KB (hopefully there will be some). They are for participation not a completion hence they will be available at the Pre DB1k BBQ on the 2nd. See this post for a preview.
Last edited by cooneyr; 31st August 2008 at 21:04.
Reason: Posted above
"The ultimate result of shielding men from the effects of folly is to fill the world with fools." - Herbert Spencer, English Philosopher (1820-1903)
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I'd be in the 2 day event.
Originally Posted by Padmei
, what time in the morning did you guy's leave last year? seems like the earlier the better.
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