32With The 36ONE MTB Challenge rapidly approaching and one of the riders asking for a split calculator via the event’s Facebook page we did some quick calculations for you to help you plan your race. Remember though; you’re likely to slow as the even progresses so start conservatively, eat and drink regularly, and don’t become stressed if you fall behind the splits for your original finishing target time (especially if the weather conditions prove challenging on the day).

Click here to download a printable version of The 36ONE split calculator complete with route profile and the distances to water points.

Listen to Martin Dreyer’s Advice for taking on The 36ONE MTB Challenge

Katja Steenkamp’s Check-Point to Check-Point advice:

  • Start to CP 1: Everyone is excited and the start will be too fast for most riders. If you can start in your own pace and rather finish strong. The first section flies by in a blink, there is a bit of climbing bit the main challenge is really finding a healthy pace that is sustainable. Burning matches too early will make the rest if the race extremely tough.
  • CP 1 to CP2: It’s now probably around 9/10 pm. The temperature will have dropped significantly; you will ride into the night. I recommend a good tune in the ears to stay focused with a good rhythm. Towards the end of this section riders typically hit the urge to sleep. You will have ridden about 180km and +/- 2000m climbing. That’s what most riders will have ridden in one go before. Pushing through this will be hard. Don’t linger too long at this WP if you want a good time. If time is not of concern, have. 2-3 hour nap.
  • CP 2 to CP 3: Tough. Very, very tough. Tired legs, tired mind. Lots of climbing with screaming legs.
  • CP 3 to Finish: The finish seems near. But kilometres drag out endlessly.

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Other Advice:

  • Mikayla Benkenstein – Q&A
  • Kevin Benkenstein – Q&A
  • Velotales: Dane Walsh’s 36ONE Experiences: 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014

Key Locations & GPS Co-Ordinates: