CHALLENGE SUMMARY STAGE 1: Sardinia Duathlon Welcome to Strive 2018 we know you re in for a great experience with some hard (but enjoyable) days out on the bike ahead of you before swapping to a kayak and paddling towards the end of the stage. It s great to have you on the event, and we hope you really enjoy your experience. THE TEAM: Who s here to support you The support crew is here to answer any questions, fix mechanicals, massage aches and pains, and ensure you re on time! A summary is below, but please see your Participant Brochure for the allimportant mugshots. BIG CHANGE: here to help with any participant kit related queries, fundraising questions or additional information needed around the charity THRESHOLD SPORTS: the team behind the event logistics. Any questions you have around timings, where you need to be, what you need to bring or what s coming up next, just speak to one of the Threshold team and they ll help you out JIGSAW MEDICAL: the doctors, physios and massage team will be ready to assist with any aches and pains to keep you on the challenge MEDITERRAS: our trusted in-country suppliers who are responsible for the beautiful views (and hills!) that you are going to enjoy on the bike. They ll have ride chaperones out on the road alongside the route team, and mobile mechanics making sure you have the best Sardinian welcome and experience APPETITE FOR ADVENTURE: make sure you re nice to Ange and Adie as they ll be cooking up at storm at each of the lunch stops ARRIVAL DAY: What you need to do With the challenge kicking off early on Day 1, you need to make sure you have everything sorted: Register: o Check in with the Threshold team at reception. You ll receive: Participant brochure Wristbands (please wear this at all times) Bike tag - so we know who you are on the road Contact card with support crew numbers Room key/card Collect participant kit and luggage label (if you missed the London kit preevent meet) Prepare your bike: o If you ve used the bike transport, your bike will be located in the car parking area o The mechanics will be there to help if you need any tools to get your bike ride ready o Attach your bike tag to the seat post of you bike o Once ready, hand over your bike to Mediterras ready for transfer to the start line Prepare your kit: o Make sure you are all set for Day 1 and have everything that you need The Info Board : o This will become second nature. Every day in the main hotel there will be a large info board showing everything you need to know: timings for dinner/breakfast/briefings, wifi codes, weather, route info and the odd motivational quote...be sure to check it! Attend the briefing: o A Stage Briefing will be held at 19:00 for all Strivers check the board for location
o Daily briefings will then take place each evening before dinner DAILY SCHEDULE: When will you be doing what Each day of the stage will follow a similar schedule, but exact timings will be shared in the daily briefings each evening. 07:00 08:00 Breakfast 08:30 Check out, drop your luggage into the luggage van and prepare for stage start 09:00 Stage Start 09:00 12:00 Morning cycle/ sea kayak 11:00 14:00 LUNCH stop on the route 13:00 17:00 Afternoon cycle/ sea kayak 15:00 20:00 Info desk open in hotel reception at finish line 15:00-19:00 Medical, massage, and stretch areas open 15:00 17:00 Estimated finish time of cycle/ sea kayak 19:00 Striver briefing 19:30 Dinner NB: In order to avoid the busy roads of Cagliari at the start of your challenge, you will have a 30 min coach transfer to the start location on Day 1. You need to drop off your luggage at the van, and hop on the coach with everything you need of the day s ride (your bike will be transported separately). FOOD AND DRINK: Fuel is key to success In order to complete a challenge like this, we know what you need. Food and drink will be plentiful, so read on to find out what you can expect. BREAKFAST: o Taken in your hotel each morning between 7am and 8am each day SPORTS NUTRITION o As you know we have partnered with TRIBE to provide Core Team Strivers with comprehensive sports nutrition throughout the challenge to keep you fueled on the road and aid your recovery between days. We will be providing you with nutrition packages (inc energy bars, recovery bars and shakes) at the beginning of each stage for you to carry with you throughout each stage. Please keep your stock with you in your overnight luggage and use as required. Recovery shakes will be provided at the end of the day for all participants. ON THE ROUTE: o Lunch: a mandatory stop each day with ample food and water to refill bottles o Optional coffee stops (cycling only): along the route there are plenty of cafes if you need to stop for a coffee/use the toilet - visited on an ad-hoc basis as you wish o Ad-hoc crew support (cycling only): along the route you will see crew vehicles so do stop them if you need anything. They will be loaded with water/snacks POST CYCLE SNACK: o When you finish each cycle day, you ll be greeted with a Sardinian buffet of bread, cold meats and fruit to keep the hunger locked up until dinner o Chance for you to buy a post-activity drink and celebrate the day DINNER: o Each day we will have dinner together. If guests are split across multiple hotels, transfer vehicles will shuttle guests to/from dinner at the nominated hotel. Arrival day dinner at hotel (set menu) Day 1 offsite dinner in local restaurant (set menu) Day 2 dinner at main hotel (buffet menu more relaxed timings)
Day 3 dinner at hotel (buffet menu more relaxed timings) Day 4 offsite dinner in local restaurant (set menu) Day 5 dinner at main hotel (buffet menu more relaxed timings) Day 6 dinner at main hotel (Stage Finale dinner set menu) WATER o We are aware it will be warm, so there will be ample water available to you: Hotel in the morning to fill bottles Cafes/public water taps along the route Lunch stop Crew vehicles on the road/ support boats Finish line and throughout the evening ALCOHOL & ADDITIONAL DRINKS o Main event food is included within your Strive entry, however you will be required to purchase your own alcoholic drinks and any additional soft drinks and snacks. When purchasing these, please pay for these at the time and do not charge them to your room ON THE ROAD EXPERIENCE: Cycling Each day you can expect: A signed route you do not need to self-navigate. Signage will be along the route and checked each morning Mechanical/ Medical support if you have a medical or mechanical issue you will have an associated number to call (on your contact card) for support. Please remember you are expected to fix your own punctures. If your problem is something they can t fix at the roadside, they ll loan you a bike to finish the stage (subject to availability). The mechanic team will carry a good stock of basic consumables such as tubes, tyres, chains etc. At all times, they will have a replace not repair approach as this is the most efficient way of supporting all people on the event Ride Chaperones throughout the group there will be three Ride Chaperones to help with group riding techniques, motivational support, and providing a safety eye Route opening/closing times the route will open at the start time each day. The route will be open for approximately ten hours A broomwagon this vehicle will drive at the back of the rider field as support for anyone who cannot continue or is likely not to complete before the cut off time. For safety reasons, no one will be permitted to cycle in the dark. If there is a situation where a rider is due to finish in the dark, they will travel to the hotel in the broomwagon A lunch stop powering you through the day is our aim and there will be a selection of calorie packed foods for you to eat. If you have any specific dietary requirements, we will ensure these are catered for throughout the event. During the day there will be a mandatory lunch stop. Please note there may not always be toilets at the lunch stops, so please stop when you see the opportunity when going through local towns/villages ON THE WATER EXPERIENCE: Sea Kayaking Each day you can expect: Guide paddlers you do not need to self-navigate. Guide paddlers will be there to keep groups together and ensure everyone is heading in the right direction Support boats there will be two support RIB boats to ensure safety of the group Medical support there will be a medic on the water with you in a support boat in case you have a medical issue
A lunch stop there will be a mandatory lunch stop on the water s edge to refuel and to have a refreshing swim FINISH LINE EXPERIENCE: When you ve completed the day Recovery drink A recovery shake will be provided at the end of the day for each rider Find your accommodation head to the team to check in and find your bed for the night Massage/medical/stretch the medical team will set up these areas. This will include an ice bath for post-activity recovery Prepare your kit for the next day you don t want to be doing this after dinner. Mechanics will be on hand if you have any bike issues Relax before briefing/ dinner relax and enjoy the afternoon and hotel surroundings (including a swim in most locations) KIT YOUR LUGGAGE: When do you have access to your bag You will be able to access your main luggage each day at the hotel There will be no access to your bag during the day, or at the lunch stops, so you will need to ensure you have everything with you for each day s activity If any lost property is found, and handed in, you ll be able to pick this up from the info desk which will be stationed in the nominated hotel each evening KIT - CYCLING: What do you need to have with you Every day on the bike, you need to have the following with you: Helmet Cycle shoes don t leave these in your main luggage Bike lights (must be attached and working) 2 x water bottles (full) Sunscreen Cycle glasses/sunglasses Water/windproof jacket Multi-tool, mini pump, spare inner tubes Charged mobile phone Bank card/ Cash (Euros) Gloves (if you wear them) GPS device (if you use one) Chamois cream (if you use this) Personal medication KIT SEA KAYAKING: What do you need to have with you Each day on the sea kayak, you need to have the following: on you: o Swimming costume/ bikini o Rash vest o Trainers or flip flops o Strive Baseball cap o Sunglasses with you in your dry bag: o Charged mobile phone o Bank card/ Cash (Euros) o Lightweight jacket (in case the weather turns)
o Sunscreen o Personal medication Water bottle (full) ACCOMMODATION: Where possible the whole group is in the same hotel however, due to the size of the group and time of year (it s the end of the peak season in Sardinia) there are a few occasions where we are split amongst nearby hotels. If you are not staying in the main hotel you will either be within walking distance, or transferred at specific times (as communicated on the information board) to/from the briefing and dinner. Arrival Day group hotel Day 1 three hotels within walking distance Day 2 two hotels (short seven min vehicle transfer) Day 3 group hotel Day 4 two hotels within walking distance Day 5 & 6 two hotels (short two min vehicle transfer)
CHALLENGE SUMMARY CORE TEAM: Sailing To cross between Sardinia and Corsica, and Corsica to France you will be sailing. These crossings will be fun and enjoyable and there is no expectation that you have had any prior sailing experience. THE TEAM: Who s here to support you Both boats will be fully crewed with a skipper, deck-hand and chef/host. This team will guide you around the boat and teach you the basics. You will have the opportunity to get involved with the sailing but it is not essential. BIG CHANGE: here to help with any participant kit related queries, fundraising questions or additional information needed around the charity. THRESHOLD SPORTS: the team behind the event logistics. Any questions you have around timings, where you need to be, what you need to bring or what s coming up next, just speak to one of the Threshold team and they ll help you out. SAILING CREW: the skipper, deck hand and host will be there to teach you the basics, manage the boat and ensure that you have everything you need whilst on-board. They will be team responsible for getting you from A to B, planning the voyages and looking after the boat. SAILING ROUTE: Sardinia Corsica: Day 1: Porto Conte Castelsardo Day 2: Castelsardo Porto Vechhio Corsica France: Day 1: Porto - Monaco SAILING SCHEDULE: Sardinia - Corsica Sardinia to Corsica will be split across two days. The exact timings will be shared in briefing the night before as it is very much wind dependent. 07:00 08:00 Breakfast 08:30 Check out, drop your luggage into the luggage van and prepare for sailing 09:00 Arrive at yacht for briefing 09:30 Set sail 12:30 Lunch (On board) 16:30 18:30 Estimated arrival time. Transfer to hotel 19:00 Striver briefing 19:30 Dinner (On land) SAILING SCHEDULE: Corsica - France Corsica to Monaco will be done in one day. The exact timings will be shared in briefing the night before as it is very much wind dependent. 05:30 Check out, drop your luggage into the luggage van and prepare for sailing 06:00 Arrive at yacht for briefing 07:00 Set sail 07:30 Breakfast (On board) 12:30 Lunch (On board) 19:00 Dinner (On board) 22:00 00:00 Estimated arrival time. Transfer to hotel
FOOD AND DRINK All food, drink and snacks will be provided during the sail. Sardinia Corsica o Breakfast and dinner will take place at the hotels o Lunch and snacks will be provided on board Corsica France o Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks will be provided on board ON THE WATER EXPERIENCE On the water you can expect: A pre-planned route you do not need to worry about navigating the boat. The crew on board will be responsible for this and you can get involved as much as you like Briefings you will be thoroughly briefed when you get on board about how move around the boat, the basics of being a member of the crew and general health and safety Seeking rest each yacht will have cabins that you will be able to rest in / find shelter from the sun. Whilst there are not enough cabins for everyone, you will be able to rotate so everyone gets some down time if needed Medical support the yacht crew are all full trained in basic first aid and emergency protocols should you need it on the water KIT - SAILING: What do you need to have with you On each sailing leg, you need to have the following with you in a day-sack containing: Swimwear Cap Water/windproof jacket Long trousers Warm layers (for when the sun goes down) Non-marking / white soled shoes Sunglasses Water bottle Sunscreen Charged mobile phone Bank card/ Cash (Euros) Personal medication Sea sickness tablets
CHALLENGE SUMMARY STAGE 2: Corsica Hike Welcome to Strive 2018 we know you re in for a great experience with some hard (but enjoyable) days out on the trail. You will be spending four days on the famous GR20 which is described as the hardest but most beautiful hike in Europe. You will need to expect broken terrain and lots of ups and downs but the reward is breathtaking beauty and isolation. It s great to have you on the event, and we hope you really enjoy your experience. THE TEAM: Who s here to support you The event team will be looking after you at the start and end of the stage; we re able to assist with answering any questions, help with kit suggestions and ensure you re on time! The majority of the stage will be spent out on the GR20, which is inaccessible by the crew from Days 1-4, so during the challenge you will be supported by the expert guides who will ensure you are well looked after. A summary is below, but please see your Participant Brochure for the all-important mugshots. BIG CHANGE: here to help with any participant kit related queries, fundraising questions or additional information needed around the charity. THRESHOLD SPORTS: the team behind the event logistics. Any questions you have around timings, transport, or where you need to be just speak to one of the Threshold team and they ll help you out. CORSICA AVENTURE: our trusted in-country suppliers who are responsible for the beautiful route (and logistics) that you are going to experience. Experienced mountain guides will lead each group, and ensure you have everything you need. JIGSAW MEDICAL: Your guides on the ground will be the first port of call (who are first aid trained), but there is medical back up for them on the phone from the Jigsaw team if necessary, and where a signal exists. The route guides also have access to the standard protocols for emergency response (and evacuation) from the GR20 where needed. ARRIVAL DAY: What you need to do With the challenge kicking off early on Day 1, you need to make sure you have everything sorted: Register: o Check in with the Threshold team at reception. You will receive: Participant brochure Wristband (please wear this at all times) Details of your accommodation Collect participant kit and luggage label (if you missed the London kit preevent meet) Prepare your kit: o Make sure you are all set for Day 1 and have everything that you need o Pack your rucksack with your essentials that you will be carrying with you. You will be carrying your own pack so the lighter it is, the more enjoyable your hiking experience will be! Please just pack what s on the packing list o Ask any questions the guides will be around to provide guidance o Prepare a spare bag to go on the luggage transfer (you will see this on night four) Attend the briefing: o A Stage Briefing will be held at 19:00 for all Strivers a chance to meet your guides o Daily briefings will then take place each evening ahead of the next day
DAILY SCHEDULE: When will you be doing what Each day of the stage will follow a similar schedule, but exact timings will be shared in the daily briefings each evening. 06:00 07:00 Breakfast, collect packed lunch 07:30 Start walking along the route (lunch taken along route) 14:00 16:00 Estimated walking finish time 18:00 Dinner in refuge FOOD AND DRINK: Fuel is key to success In order to complete a challenge like this, we are aware you need the calories, so read on to find out what you can expect. Dietary requirements will be catered for, however, please be aware due to the remoteness of the challenge that choice will be limited. BREAKFAST: o Taken in your accommodation each morning continental breakfast SPORTS NUTRITION o As you know we have partnered with TRIBE to provide Core Team Strivers with comprehensive sports nutrition throughout the challenge to keep you fueled on the trail and aid your recovery between days. We will be providing you with nutrition packages (inc energy bars, recovery bars and shakes) at the beginning of each stage for you to carry with you throughout each stage. Please keep your stock with you in your hiking rucksack and use as required. ON THE ROUTE: o Lunch: You will receive a packed lunch from the accommodation each morning. You will need to put this into your Tupperware box which you will be provided on arrival to Corsica. Your guide will determine your lunch location each day. Lunch with typically be a picnic salad rice/pasta/lentils/cheese/couscous. o Snacks: items such as dates, figs, cereal bars and cookies will be provided. Please do bring any of your own treats if you wish that you know you ll enjoy during the hike, and are accustomed to. DINNER: o Each day you will have dinner in the refuges. Many of the huts are small, so it may be that you eat in different sittings depending on the capacity. o Evening meal will be hot and plentiful. There will be a starter of soup or smoked meats, followed by a main meal of pasta or rice with sauce, and cheese followed by fruit or a sweet pudding. WATER o It is essential that you bring a water hydration pack with you e.g. Camelbak. o You will need to fill up your hydration packs each morning. o Your guide will highlight any additional water sources along the route. ALCOHOL & ADDITIONAL DRINKS/ SNACKS o When you finish each hike day, you ll be greeted with fantastic views in very remote locations. Soft drinks, alcohol and snacks will be available for cash purchase. ON THE ROUTE EXPERIENCE: Hiking Each day you can expect: Guided groups you do not need to self-navigate. You will be in a group of 12 participants with a dedicated guide who will be looking after you each day. Early starts your guide will be responsible for briefing the group each evening regarding start time. These are likely to be early to enjoy the best part of the day.
A feeling of remoteness the views are breathtaking, but with this comes inaccessibility. Once you depart from Vizzavona on Day 1, you will not see the main event crew until the end of day four (including your main luggage). Comfortable/ basic accommodation the huts/ refuges on the route have character and charm. They are small and basic, often family-run, and showers and WC facilities are limited. You can expect camping accommodation (shared tents) or refuge dormitories, and limited access to power supplies (see Route Info for summary of services). Carrying your kit due to the inaccessibility to luggage transfer, you will be carrying everything with you, including your sleeping bag. The refuges provide tents and sleeping mats. This adds to the challenge, so no need to double pack anything and carry unnecessary weight! Varying temperatures you can expect to encounter some very wide ranging temperatures. You need to be ready for everything, from very hot to cold mountain weather. Corsica is known for its micro-climates the weather is unpredictable and can change very quickly. KIT YOUR LUGGAGE: When do you have access to your bag You will be carrying everything you need on your back throughout the challenge. At the start, you have hand in any kit bag (maximum 15L) that you don t need until night four. You will have access to any additional luggage on night four and night five (the last night). There will be no access to your second bag during the first three days of the hike so you will need to ensure you have everything with you. KIT - HIKING: What do you need to have with you Ensuring you have the right gear is essential for everyone s safety, and carrying too much gear is not helpful and can cause unnecessary fatigue. There is no opportunity to buy new equipment on this stage, so having the right kit sorted is really important. You will carry all of the below kit in your 35-45L rucksack (a tip is to line your bag with a bin liner for extra protection against heavy rain). During the day: o Hiking boots/ shoes with soles in good condition (that have been trained in and are not new) o Walking socks o Two walking poles (to allow complete balance) o Water hydration pack e.g. Camelbak at least two litres (essential to ensure you drink regularly to avoid dehydration) o Personal snacks (if chosen) o T-shirt/baselayer o Shorts/lightweight mountaineering trousers o Swimwear (you can stop to swim at some lunch spots) o Windproof/ waterproof jacket and trousers (GoreTex) o Thermal hat/ gloves o Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip protection) o Tupperware lunch box and fork/ spoon (this is provided to you on arrival at the event) o Penknife o Plastic bags/ ziplock style bags o Basic first aid kit with blister repair o Toilet paper/ pocket tissues o Charged mobile phone o Personal medication o Rucksack rain cover
Evening: o Casual wear - leggings/ warm tights, sandals o Warm jumper/fleece o Head torch o Portable phone charger o Cash (Euros) for alcohol, soft drinks and snacks o Quick dry travel towel o Small wash bag with toiletries & anti-bacterial hand wash o Earplugs o Sleeping bag (-5 degrees C comfort) ACCOMMODATION: As explained above, the accommodation is basic and rudimentary. Please see a summary table below to show the provision available to you each night. Night Location Sleeping Shower Drinks Access to luggage Access to power 0 - Arrival Vizzavona Dorms Cold Cash Yes Limited 1 L Onda Tent 2 Cold Cash No No sharing 2 Petra Piana Tent 2 Cold Cash No No sharing 3 Manganu Tent 2 Cold Cash No No sharing 4 Castel di Dorms Warm Cash Yes Yes Vergio 5 Porto Twin rooms Warm Cash/ Card Yes Yes FINAL NIGHT: On arrival into Porto, you will be met by the event crew. We will ensure that you are checked into your accommodation and have time to get ready for the final stage dinner. This will be at a nearby restaurant within walking distance from your hotel. Transfer times for buses to the airport the following morning will be communicated, so you know exactly when you need to be ready for departure.
CHALLENGE SUMMARY STAGE 3: France Cycle Welcome to Strive 2018 we know you re in for a great experience with some hard (but enjoyable) days out on the bike ahead of you. It s great to have you on the event, and we hope you really enjoy your experience. THE TEAM: Who s here to support you The support crew is here to answer any questions, fix mechanicals, massage aches and pains, and ensure you re on time! A summary is below, but please see your Participant Brochure for the allimportant mugshots. BIG CHANGE: here to help with any participant kit related queries, fundraising questions or additional information needed around the charity. THRESHOLD SPORTS: the team behind the event logistics. Any questions you have around timings, where you need to be, what you need to bring or what s coming up next, just speak to one of the Threshold team and they ll help you out. JIGSAW MEDICAL: the doctors, physios and massage team will be ready to assist with any aches and pains to keep you on the challenge. JUST PEDAL: our trusted cycle route supplier who are responsible for the beautiful views (and climbs!) that you are going to enjoy on the bike. They ll have ride chaperones out on the road alongside the route team. HALFORDS: mobile mechanics available to support with any bike issues on the road, and bike assistance at the hotels each day. APPETITE FOR ADVENTURE: make sure you re nice to Adie and Jason as they ll be cooking up at storm at each of the lunch stops. ARRIVAL DAY: What you need to do With the challenge kicking off early on Day 1, you need to make sure you have everything sorted: Register: o Check in with the Threshold team at reception. You ll receive: Participant brochure Wristbands (please wear this at all times) Bike tag - so we know who you are on the road Contact card with support crew numbers Room key/card Collect participant kit and luggage label (if you missed the London kit preevent meet) Prepare your bike: o If you ve used the bike transport, your bike will be located in the bike storage area o The mechanics will be there to help if you need any tools to get your bike ride ready o Attach your bike tag to the seat post of you bike Prepare your kit: o Make sure you are all set for Day 1 and have everything that you need The Info Board : o This will become second nature. Every day in the main hotel there will be a large info board showing everything you need to know: timings for dinner/breakfast/briefings, wifi codes, weather, route info and the odd motivational quote...be sure to check it! Attend the briefing: o A Stage Briefing will be held at 19:00 for all Strivers check the board for location
o Daily briefings will then take place each evening before dinner DAILY SCHEDULE: When will you be doing what Each day of the stage will follow a similar schedule, but exact timings will be shared in the daily briefings each evening. 07:00 07:30 Breakfast 08:00 Check out, drop your luggage into the luggage van and prepare for stage start 08:30 Stage Start 08:30 12:00 Morning cycle 11:00 14:00 LUNCH stop on the route 13:00 17:00 Afternoon cycle 15:00 18:30 Estimated finish time of cycle 15:00 20:00 Info desk open in hotel reception at finish line 15:00-19:00 Medical, massage, and stretch areas open 19:00 Striver briefing 19:30 Dinner FOOD AND DRINK: Fuel is key to success In order to complete a challenge like this, we know what you need. Food and drink will be plentiful, so read on to find out what you can expect. BREAKFAST: o Taken in your hotel each morning between 7am and 7.30am each day SPORTS NUTRITION o As you know we have partnered with TRIBE to provide Core Team Strivers with comprehensive sports nutrition throughout the challenge to keep you fueled on the road and aid your recovery between days. We will be providing you with nutrition packages (inc energy bars, recovery bars and shakes) at the beginning of each stage for you to carry with you throughout each stage. Please keep your stock with you in your overnight luggage and use as required. Recovery shakes will be provided at the end of the day for all participants. ON THE ROUTE: o Lunch: a mandatory stop each day with ample food and water to refill bottles o Optional coffee stops: along the route there will be cafes if you need to stop for a coffee/use the toilet - visited on an ad-hoc basis as you wish o Ad-hoc crew support: along the route you will see crew vehicles so do stop them if you need anything. They will be loaded with water/snacks POST CYCLE: o Chance for you to buy a post-activity drink and celebrate the day DINNER: o Each day we will have dinner together. If guests are split across multiple hotels, transfer vehicles will shuttle guests to/from dinner at the nominated hotel. Arrival day dinner at hotel (set menu) Day 1 dinner at nominated hotel (buffet menu more relaxed timings) Day 2 offsite dinner in local venue (set menu) Day 3 dinner at nominated hotel (buffet menu more relaxed timings) Day 4 dinner at main hotel (buffet menu more relaxed timings) Day 5 offsite dinner at local restaurant (Stage Finale dinner set menu) WATER o There will be ample water available to you: Hotel in the morning to fill bottles
Cafes along the route Lunch stop Crew vehicles on the road Finish line and throughout the evening ALCOHOL & ADDITIONAL DRINKS o Main event food is included within your Strive entry, however you will be required to purchase your own alcoholic drinks and any additional soft drinks and snacks. When purchasing these, please pay for these at the time and do not charge them to your room. ON THE ROAD EXPERIENCE Each day you can expect: A signed route you do not need to self-navigate. Signage will be along the route and checked each morning Mechanical/ Medical support if you have a medical or mechanical issue you will have an associated number to call (on your contact card) for support. Please remember you are expected to fix your own punctures. If your problem is something they can t fix at the roadside, they ll loan you a bike to finish the stage (subject to availability). The mechanic team will carry a good stock of basic consumables such as tubes, tyres, chains etc. At all times, they will have a replace not repair approach as this is the most efficient way of supporting all people on the event Ride Chaperones throughout the group there will be three Ride Chaperones to help with group riding techniques, motivational support, and providing a safety eye Route opening/closing times the route will open at the start time each day. The route will be open for approximately ten hours A broomwagon this vehicle will drive at the back of the rider field as support for anyone who cannot continue or is likely not to complete before the cut off time. For safety reasons, no one will be permitted to cycle in the dark. If there is a situation where a rider is due to finish in the dark, they will travel to the hotel in the broomwagon A lunch stop powering you through the day is our aim and there will be a selection of calorie packed foods for you to eat. If you have any specific dietary requirements, we will ensure these are catered for throughout the event. Each day there will be a mandatory lunch stop, please note there may not always be toilets at the lunch stops, so please stop when you see the opportunity when going through local towns/villages DESCENDING: You need to be careful Descending from the top of an alpine col is one of the most exciting things you can do on a bike but can also be one of the riskier experiences. The tips below will help you stay safe whilst descending: Check your bike (especially the brakes) are in good working order before you start each day Ride well within your capabilities. Open roads with two-way traffic, sharp corners and narrow sections are not the place to be testing your limits If you feel like you are going too fast you are going too fast. Ease off the pace with some steady braking and stay at a speed where you feel in control Stay to the right-hand side of the road. If you have to cross the white line you are going too fast Always look over your shoulder when changing line. Check to see if anyone else is there; they don t always tell you Tell someone when you are over taking them. If you have to overtake make sure the other rider is aware you are there with a call passing on left for example Set an example ride sensibly and others will follow
FINISH LINE EXPERIENCE: When you ve completed the day Recovery drink A recovery shake will be provided at the end of each day for each rider Find your accommodation head to the team to check in and find your bed for the night Massage/medical/stretch the medical team will set up these areas. This will include an ice bath for post-activity recovery Prepare your kit for the next day you don t want to be doing this after dinner. Mechanics will be on hand if you have any bike issues Relax before briefing/ dinner relax and enjoy the afternoon and hotel surroundings KIT YOUR LUGGAGE: When do you have access to your bag You will be able to access your main luggage each day at the hotel There will be no access to your bag during the day, or at the lunch stops, so you will need to ensure you have everything with you for each day If any lost property is found, and handed in, you ll be able to pick this up from the info desk which will be stationed in the nominated hotel each evening KIT: What do you need to have with you Every day on the bike, you need to have the following with you: Helmet Cycle shoes don t leave these in your main luggage Bike lights (must be attached and working there are tunnels on this route) 2 x water bottles (full) Sunscreen Cycle glasses/sunglasses Water/windproof jacket Multi-tool, mini pump, spare inner tubes Charged mobile phone Bank card/ Cash (Euros) Gloves (if you wear them) GPS device (if you use one) Chamois cream (if you use this) Personal medication ACCOMMODATION: Where possible the whole group is in the same hotel however due to the size of the group and time of year (it s inter-season in the Alps so many hotels are closed) there are a few occasions where we are split amongst nearby hotels. If you are not staying in the main hotel you will either be within walking distance, or transferred at specific times (as communicated on the information board) to/from the briefing and dinner. Arrival Day group hotel Day 1 three hotels within short walking distance Day 2 five hotels within short walking distance Day 3 two hotels (ten min vehicle transfer) Day 4 group hotel Day 5 two hotels within short walking distance
CHALLENGE SUMMARY STAGE 4: France Hike Welcome to The Virgin Strive Challenge 2018 we know you re in for a great experience with some hard (but enjoyable) days out on the trail in the Alps. It s great to have you on the event, and we hope you really it. THE TEAM: Who s here to support you The event team will be looking after you at the start and end of the stage; we re able to assist with answering any questions, help with kit suggestions and ensure you re on time! The majority of the stage will be spent out on the trail, where the crew will not join the group, so during the challenge you will be supported by the expert guides who will ensure you are well looked after. A summary is below, but please see your Participant Brochure for the all-important mugshots. BIG CHANGE: here to help with any participant kit related queries, fundraising questions or additional information needed around the charity THRESHOLD SPORTS: the team behind the event logistics. Any questions you have around timings, transport, or where you need to be just speak to one of the Threshold team and they ll help you out ADVENTURE BASE: our trusted in-country suppliers who are responsible for the beautiful route (and logistics) that you are going to experience. Experienced mountain guides will lead each group, and ensure you have everything you need JIGSAW MEDICAL: Your guides on the ground will be the first port of call (who are first aid trained), but there is medical back up for them on the phone from the Jigsaw team if necessary, and where a signal exists. The route guides also have access to the standard protocols for emergency response (and evacuation) from the trail where needed ARRIVAL DAY: What you need to do With the challenge kicking off early on Day 1, you need to make sure you have everything sorted: Register: o Check in with the Threshold team at reception. You will receive: Participant brochure Wristband (please wear this at all times) Details of your accommodation Collect participant kit and luggage label (if you missed the London kit preevent meet) Prepare your kit: o Make sure you are all set for Day 1 and have everything that you need o Pack your rucksack with your essentials that you will be carrying with you o Ask any questions the guides will be around to provide guidance o Prepare your main bag to go on the luggage transfer (you will see this each night) Attend the briefing: o A Stage Briefing will be held at 18:00 for all Strivers a chance to meet your guides o Daily briefings will then take place each evening ahead of the next day
DAILY SCHEDULE: When will you be doing what Each day of the stage will follow a similar schedule, but exact timings will be shared in the daily briefings each evening. 06:00 07:00 Breakfast, collect packed lunch 07:30 Start walking along the route (lunch taken along route) 14:00 16:00 Estimated walking finish time 18:00 Dinner in accommodation FOOD AND DRINK: Fuel is key to success In order to complete a challenge like this, we are aware you need the calories, so read on to find out what you can expect. BREAKFAST: o Taken in your accommodation each morning SPORTS NUTRITION o As you know we have partnered with TRIBE to provide Core Team Strivers with comprehensive sports nutrition throughout the challenge to keep you fueled on the trail and aid your recovery between days. We will be providing you with nutrition packages (inc energy bars, recovery bars and shakes) at the beginning of each stage for you to carry with you throughout each stage. Please keep your stock with you in your hiking rucksack and use as required. ON THE ROUTE: o Lunch: You will receive a packed lunch from the accommodation each morning. Your guide will determine your lunch location each day. o Snacks: please do bring any of your own treats if you wish that you know you ll enjoy during the hike, and are accustomed to. DINNER: o Each day you will have dinner in your accommodation. WATER o It is essential that you bring a water hydration pack with you e.g. Camelbak. o You will need to fill up your hydration packs each morning. o Your guide will highlight any additional water sources along the route. ALCOHOL & ADDITIONAL DRINKS/ SNACKS o When you finish each hike day, soft drinks, alcohol and snacks will be available for purchase ON THE ROUTE EXPERIENCE: Hiking Each day you can expect: Guided groups you do not need to self-navigate. You will be in a group of c.10 participants with a dedicated guide who will be looking after you each day Early starts your guide will be responsible for briefing the group each evening regarding start time. These are likely to be early to enjoy the best part of the day Varying temperatures you can expect to encounter some very wide ranging temperatures. You need to be ready for everything, from very hot to cold mountain weather. The mountains are known for their micro-climates the weather is unpredictable and can change very quickly. KIT YOUR LUGGAGE: When do you have access to your bag You will have access to your main luggage each night You will carry a small rucksack with you for your essentials during the day e.g. water, packed lunch and layers
KIT - HIKING: What do you need to have with you There is no opportunity to buy new equipment on this stage, so having the right kit sorted is really important. During the day: o Hiking boots/ shoes with soles in good condition (that have been trained in and are not new) o Walking socks o Two walking poles o T-shirt/baselayer o Shorts/lightweight mountaineering trousers o Thermal hat/ gloves o Windproof/ waterproof jacket and trousers (GoreTex) o Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip protection) o Penknife o Plastic bags/ ziplock style bags o Basic first aid kit with blister repair o Toilet paper/ pocket tissues o Swimwear (you may have the chance to stop to swim) o Water hydration pack e.g. Camelbak at least two litres (essential to ensure you drink regularly to avoid dehydration) o Personal snacks o Charged mobile phone o Personal medication o Rucksack rain cover Overnight luggage: o Spare clothing o Evening casual wear o Warm jumper/fleece o Head torch o Portable phone charger o Cash (Euros) for alcohol, soft drinks and snacks o Quick dry travel towel o Small wash bag with toiletries & anti-bacterial hand wash o Earplugs o Sleeping bag (-5 degrees C comfort) ACCOMMODATION: After your first day s hiking, you will be staying in a refuge but the remaining nights you will be in hotel accommodation. Please see a summary table below to show the provision available to you each night: Night Location Sleeping Shower Drinks Access to luggage Access to power 0 - Arrival Tignes Twin rooms Warm Cash/ Card Yes Yes 1 Refuge de Dorms Warm Cash Yes Yes Rosuel 2 Aime Twin rooms Warm Cash/ Card Yes Yes 3 Aime Twin rooms Warm Cash/ Card Yes Yes 4 Les Twin rooms Warm Cash/ Card Yes Yes Contamines 5 Chamonix Twin rooms Warm Cash/ Card Yes Yes
After Day 2 and 3, there is a vehicle transfer to the accommodation this will be staggered depending on group arrival times to the finish point so you can head to the hotel and relax. FINAL NIGHT: On arrival into Chamonix, you will be met by the event crew. We will ensure that you are checked into your accommodation and have time to get ready for the final stage dinner in the hotel. Transfer times for buses to the airport the following morning will be communicated, so you know exactly when you need to be ready for departure.