The classes will be Men and Women Open, 40+ and 50+, and Men 60+. The open classes have 6 members (best four of each country to count) while the others have 3 riders (best two to count.) There are no opportunities for trials for the team, so the NZOF selectors will probably have to rely on form over the the past year. For the foot-o team the process is to select first and check availability next. Watch this space for more details. Ages will be as at 31 Dec 05.
The challenge will be near Auckland, and NorthWest OC is mapping a new area of Riverhead Forest. There's a good network of active and old forest roads, and motorcyclists have created lots of single-track; the hills are quite moderate, the area goes up to about 200m. The entry form has been published, look on the North West OC website or contact the who is Shaun Collins Ph 09 817 7621. Although a team will be selected, non-challenge riders will be welcome to take part too, as several did in Australia last year. Entries close 1 December.
For further events and details, keep an eye on the MTBO calendar.