2022 is cancelled due to Omicron…. but entries are now open for 1 April 2023.
Date: February 1st, 2022
Posted in: News
PRE RACE BRIEFING 2021 – Must Knows
Date: April 15th, 2021
Welcome to Lake Hawea and the 13th Contact Epic. The LMS Events team congratulates you on getting this far and look forward to you adding to the camaraderie and positive vibe this race experiences. The next is the easy bit, just hop onto your bike on Saturday morning and keep pedaling until we say stop. If you need any help with anything please ask someone with a fluro vest.
If for any reason you have registered and decide not to race please text your name and race number stating DNS to Danielle Nicholson 0274595106.
Pre Race: Breakfast, Toilets and Coffee will are available at the Hawea Hotel from 5:00 on.
Full Circuit: CENTURION, EPIC and TRAVERSE
- The Epic and Centurion race starts at 7.00am beside the Dam. If you wish to be near the front you need to get there early. However, for everyone’s safety if you are not a serious contender please do not stack up at the front for the start. Most importantly please do not arrive late and try to push in or jump the fence, respect the fact that some have got up early to get their spots. A portaloo will be on the start line for any last minute nerves.
- Traverse, Your race starts at 7.30am at the same place as the Epic. The Hawea and Clutha River Tracks remains open to the public so please show the appropriate courtesy and share the space if you see other track users.
- For parking, drive past the front of the Hawea Hotel and turn right behind the garden bar. Follow the signs to the rear of the Hawea Hotel where, on the top level, there is a large paddock for parking. No parking please on the roads leading to or around the dam. If the Hotel area is full you will be directed up to the road to the Hawea Store which is about 3 mins away. Drivers, be aware of cyclists riding down-hill from the hotel to the start line in the dark.
- Bike lights are required during the hours of darkness.
- The Centurion race: An Aid Station will be situated at the Centurion turn around point at the very top of the course. Once you go past the Epic turnaround you essentially head straight up the valley. Follow pink ribbons and black arrows that will mark the easiest route and general direction as will the marshals for the river crossings. It is a bit of an adventure up there.
Full Circuit: Classic
- Start time is 7.00am at Kidds Bush. It will take approximately 45-55 mins from Wanaka to get to Kidds Bush. There are no lights out there until sun rise, so bring a head torch. 2 toilets flushing are located in the Kidds Bush camping area or via the portaloo next to the start line. The start line is on the eastern end of the reserve. For those supporters driving out, remember to leave straight after the start or stay (approx 1.5 hrs) until the Epic riders have come past as this will be greatly appreciated and reduce vehicles V cyclists on Mead Rd heading back to the state highway.
Alternative Route: Hawea Hotel to Green Bush Hut and Back (due to too much rain in the headwaters)
You will have opposing bike traffic on the way back down the course. Ride with your fellow rider’s safety in mind. Road rules apply. Keep Left, pass on the right. There will be a mix of riding abilities so be patient if you can’t pass safely or where you want. Let’s get everyone out and back in one piece.
Traverse: no change
Epic and Classic start: 7.00 am beside the Dam. Epic riders will be drafted to the front and ride a 15km loop down Domain Road to the Hawea Back Road before joining the Dingle Burn Road. You will ride to Green Bush Hut (aid station) and 3 km past this to your turnaround; if track and side creek water level allow. Then back track to Hawea Hotel as per the normal course.
Classic riders will be drafted to the back of the Epic and start 5 mins after the Epic riders. If you are in the Epic start group you will end up doing an extra 15km so make sure you are surrounded by blue plates at the start line please. Classic riders will turn off down Cemetery Road and head to the Dingle Burn Road. You will also ride up to Green Bush Hut Aid Station and then retrace your steps back to the Hawea Hotel. This is approx. 105km.
- The biggest hazard for this type of start is high speed bunch riding resulting in crashes on the tarseal, ouch. If you are unfamiliar with bunch riding give yourself lots of room. Be predictable with all actions, Avoid sudden braking and changes of direction or speed, Be smooth with turns at the front of the bunch, Always retire to the back of the bunch, Point out obstacles, Don’t overlap wheels, Do not panic if you brush shoulders, hands or bars with another rider, Look ahead, Obey the road rules.
- Centurions, your race will start at 5.00 like the old days. You will ride the Traverse Course and then back to the start and follow the Epic Course up to and past Green Bush Hut before turning around and heading back. If you average 17kmph on the Traverse course you should come out at the start just as our Epic boys and girls are heading off or you may be well ahead or behind them. Make sure you are familiar with the Epic Hawea Flat road course. Obviously you will need lights and a bin will be provided at the Traverse Finish to leave, or grab other gear etc.
Race Information:
- If you are crossing a river or significant side creek, spot your exit point down river before you start. Cross at a 45 degree angle to the flow. Keep your bike above the water if possible and on the down river side of you. If you are not sure, ask for help. If you are crossing a side creek and you are unsure please wait for another rider to come along.
- The existing hazards: Bunch riding on the road and other vehicular traffic both marshals and public. Loose and exposed rock, narrow tracks, fast descents with water ruts at the bottom, steep exposure at the tracks edge at times, wandering stock, other passing riders and rider fatigue, very cold and deep river and stream crossings. All the things that make the Epic an Epic but needs to be managed by you. You may encounter a 4×4 vehicle coming towards you on the private Hunter, Dingle Burn or Hawea River 4×4 tracks. This will be in emergency cases only as they will be heading to an accident site, so always ride in control, keep focused and be aware.
- Remember to take your donation (paper is lighter than coins) for the tea and scones fund raiser at the Dingle Burn Café (Centurion/Epic/Classic only).
- There are no road closures. Normal road rules apply to all roads and 4×4 tracks on all courses at all times.
- Note to self; it doesn’t matter if you are coming first or last, your rubbish is your rubbish. Own it, love it, keep it. No one wants to see it on our tracks. If you are seen dropping rubbish you will be disqualified. We take a very hard line on this as it’s an essential part of keeping the land access for this race. Since I’m waving the finger the other issue to remember is no drafting off e-bikes.
- E-bikes: will line up and start at the very front of the Classic start area and will be released 4 mins before the rest as its good to give them a head start. For the Traverse all will start together. There are no ebikes in the Epic or Centurion.
- Very Important Note. Keep left on all tracks and roads, particularly so on the fast descents. Do not change suddenly from one side of the 4×4 track to the other as faster cyclists trying to pass could end up in your spokes and both of you will, at best, end up in a heap on the ground. Be prepared for the passing cyclist to call out that they are coming through “on your right” and keep to your line. For this safety reason we do not recommend IPODs.
- The above point is particularly important for the slower Classic riders that will be caught and passed by the faster Epic riders. So keep left on the descents, ride in control at all times and indicate your intentions early.
- Weather: 0 degrees on the start line, morning cloud then becoming fine for the rest of the day reaching 10 degrees max. Light winds. It will be cold so dress accordingly.
- Your transponders will be attached to your race plates, do not cut your plates as you could end up being untimed.
- We do not accept transferred entries. For professional and medical reasons we need to know who is on the course and what medical conditions etc they may have in case of emergencies.
- If you withdraw from the race, PLEASE inform a marshal ASAP and do not cross the transponder mats if you are back in the garden bar with your bike.
- You will receive a Contact Epic Vehicle sticker at registration. Please place this on your car for two chances to be first at prize giving to pick from our top selection of spot prizes on our models. Traverse prize giving, 11 am / Cent, Epic and Classic at 5.30pm.
- If you want your bike cleaned after the race for $10, we have a fundraiser for the Girl Guides at the finish line. By the time you have had your 2nd beer the bike should be looking like new again. This means you can put it straight in the garage and not think about it again for a few weeks without feeling too guilty.
- Most importantly be safe out there. Focus on the journey, not the destination. If an opportunity arises to help someone out with a break down or at crash then take it. Karma will pay you back in spades one day. Record your time lost and we will credit it back to you. Traditionally we have the friendliest riders and volunteers out on course, it’s a tradition well worth preserving.
Posted in: News
The weather………….Mother Nature always wins!
Date: April 14th, 2021
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Posted in: News
Congrats on entering 2021
Date: April 10th, 2021
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Congratulations on entering the 2021 Contact Epic!!!!!! You will be joined by 665 other riders who are looking to enjoy their own style of Epic on race day. Be careful not to get injured as you start on your taper. If you do unfortunately have a spill and can’t make the event then please flick us a quick email to let us know….Thanks Below is the start of your pre-race info, tips, things to know, cool stuff to buy etc etc. |
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Aid Stations, supported by CLIF
Feed your adventure with CLIF. CLIF’s range of delicious energy bars, and bloks are designed to meet your racing energy needs. Look out for their chocolate chip bars and strawberry and orange bloks on course. Want to try them before the race? You’ll find CLIF at all leading sports retailers nationwide.
For a full run down on whats at the Aid Stations Click Here |
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Registration is at 3:00 – 8:30pm Friday at the Lake Hawea Hotel There is no registration on the morning of the race. You need to collect your race plate and check your details all match at Rego. If you can’t make it, someone will have to pick up the plate for you and check your details. You will also need to read the pre race info provided that has all the last minute safety information and course changes etc. |
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Bosch
Our friends at Bosch will have a demo fleet of eBikes at registration and at the finishline on race day for you, your friends and supporters to demo while waiting for prizegiving. They are also supporting our River Crossing Team with a dedicated ‘Bike Sherpa’ to help get the ebikes across the river if the river is in high flow.
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Pre-ordered merchandise will be ready for you at registration
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Do you need a bus ride for you and your bike to the Classic start line from the Hawea Hotel?
If so, Click here to Book |
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If you still haven’t sorted accommodation now’s the time to make the most of the Contact Epic deals at Oakridge
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Posted in: News
Contact Epic is on again for 18 April 2020……
Date: April 13th, 2020
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Posted in: News
Contact Epic 2020 cancelled due to Covid-19
Date: March 17th, 2020
As we are all aware Covid-19 has swept the world and now arrived in New Zealand. All information we have received indicates an increasing need for social distancing to prevent further spread. Last night the government banned any event, indoors or outdoors with over 500 people.
We wish to be part of the solution to this national crisis and, at the same time, caring for our community, our riders, volunteers and staff.
We have consulted with our principal partner Contact and have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Contact Epic event. We apologise for the inconvenience and disappointment this may have caused but trust you understand that it is the right thing to do in these unprecedented circumstances.
We are offering all our competitors a refund. While there have been significant costs to date for LMS Events this close to the race we will still honour the 75% refund as per our policy, despite this being designed for a 5% or less withdrawal rate. We are unable to roll over entries to next year.
The refunds will take a while to process as they need to be individually actioned. We hope to have these completed by next week. Pasta meals will be refunded in full and jerseys will be posted out at our expense.
We understand that many of you will be impacted personally and professionally with this outbreak far beyond this event. We wish you all the best for the months ahead and look forward to celebrating good health, good times and great people at the 2021 Contact Epic.
Posted in: News
PRE RACE BRIEFING 2019 – Must Knows
Date: April 11th, 2019
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Welcome to Lake Hawea and the 12th annual Contact Epic. The LMS Events team congratulates you on getting this far and look forward to you adding to the camaraderie and positive vibe this race experiences. The next is the easy bit, just hop onto your bike on Saturday morning and keep pedaling until we say stop. If you need any help with anything please ask someone with a fluro vest.
If for any reason you have registered and decide not to race please text your name and race number stating DNS to Danielle Nicholson 0274595106.
CENTURION, EPIC and CLASSIC
- For parking, drive past the front of the Hawea Hotel and turn right behind the garden bar. Follow the signs to the rear of the Hawea Hotel where, on the top level, there is a large paddock for parking. No parking please on the roads leading to or around the dam. Drivers, be aware of cyclists riding down-hill from the hotel to the start line in the dark. Bike lights are required during the hours of darkness.
- The Centurion race starts this year with the Epic riders at 7.00am. The Centurions have yellow plates and are riding a very long way so let them draft, help them out, you are not competing with them 😉 Centurions will go straight ahead at the Epic/Classic turn around point out and back on the same course for 35km before reaching the Epic river-crossing point again and then joining up with the rest of the Epic and Classic riders. A small Aid Station will be situated at the Centurion turn around point at the top of the course.
- The Epic race starts at 7.00am. As with the Centurion, if you wish to be near the front you need to get there early. However, for everyone’s safety if you are not a serious contender please do not stack up at the front for the start. Most importantly please do not arrive late and try to push in or jump the fence, respect the fact that some have got up early to get their spots.
- Toilets are located at the Hawea Hotel or at the start line for Centurion, Epic and Traverse riders. The Hawea Hotel will be open for coffee, toilets and breakfast (not necessarily in that order) from 5.00am.
- For the Classic, 2 toilets are located in the Kidds Bush camping area or via the portaloo next to the start line. The start line is on the grass on the eastern end of the reserve. For those supporters driving out, remember to leave straight after the start or stay (approx 1.5 hrs) until the Epic riders have come past as this will be greatly appreciated and reduce vehicles V cyclists on Mead Rd heading back to the state highway.
- Classic Parking, follow the marshals’ directions to parking areas. It will take approximately 45-55 mins from Wanaka to get to Kidds Bush. There are no lights out there until sun rise, so bring a head torch. There will be some campers using the camp ground so some consideration for them would be great. For those getting the shuttle bus to Kidds Bush, the pick up is from the front of the Hawea Hotel at 5.30 am and is independently organised through Ritchies Bus service 027 511 1264. There is no return trip to Kidds Bush after the race.
- Course deviation: About 14 km past Kidds Bush you now have to go around the Leap Hut bridge as this is closed to all Marshalls will direct you (no distance change).
- The river crossing has changed, at the turnaround point (which is marshalled) you will now go straight across the Hunter River to the opposite bank and ride via a new track on the Dingle Burn side to just past where the old river crossing came out. It will all be well marked.
- If you are crossing the river, spot your exit point down river before you start. Cross at a 45 degree angle to the flow. Keep your bike above the water if possible, if not, keep it on the down river side of you. If you are not sure, ask for help. Remember the first Aid Station is approx. 4 km from the river crossing and you may get wet again before you get there so if you are into changing socks etc I suggest doing it at the Aid Station.
- The existing hazards: Bunch riding on the road and other vehicular traffic. Loose and exposed rock, narrow tracks, fast descents with water ruts at the bottom, steep exposure at the tracks edge at times, wandering stock, other passing riders and rider fatigue, very cold river and stream crossings along with marshal vehicles on the course.
- Remember to take your donation (paper is lighter than coins) for the tea and scones fund raiser at the Dingle Burn Café (Centurion/Epic/Classic only).
- The Traverse 7:30am start is the same place as the Epic start only you will be heading in the other direction. Come early to cheer on the Epic riders as they head out on your adventure.
- For the Traverse, your biggest hazard will be crossing Camp Hill Rd at the 5km and again at the 30km mark. Marshals will manage that crossing point so please slow down and be prepared to stop if asked or if vehicles are on the road. On course, there are black printed arrows → on signs to indicate any track / course deviation from the one you are on as well as orange painted arrows on the ground.
- For the Traverse riders, the Hawea and Clutha River Tracks remains open to the public so please show the appropriate courtesy and share the space if you see other track users.
- There are no road closures. Normal road rules apply to all roads and 4×4 tracks on all courses at all times. You may encounter a 4×4 vehicle coming towards you on the private Hunter, Dingle Burn or Hawea River 4×4 tracks. This will be in emergency cases only as they will be heading to an accident site, so always ride in control. However, there are a few private vehicles on both sides of the valley as the roar is on and they are there hunting, we cannot control their movements so keep focused and be aware.
- Note to self; it doesn’t matter if you are coming first or last, your rubbish is your rubbish. Own it, love it, keep it. No one wants to see it on our tracks. If you are seen dropping rubbish you will be disqualified. We take a very hard line on this as it’s an essential part of keeping the land access for this race.
- Very Important Note. Keep left on all tracks and roads, particularly so on the fast descents. Do not change suddenly from one side of the 4×4 track to the other as faster cyclists trying to pass could end up in your spokes and both of you will, at best, end up in a heap on the ground. Be prepared for the passing cyclist to call out that they are coming through “on your right” and keep to your line. For this safety reason we do not recommend IPODs.
- The above point is particularly important for the slower Classic riders that will be caught and passed by the faster Epic riders. So keep left on the descents, ride in control at all times and indicate your intentions early.
- Weather: Frosts and morning cloud then becoming fine. 6-10 degrees. It will be cold for the Traverse riders on the Hawea River track in the morning so dress accordingly.
- This year your transponders will be attached to your race plates, do not cut your plates as you could end up being untimed.
- We do not accept transferred entries. For professional and medical reasons we need to know who is on the course and what medical conditions etc they may have in case of emergencies.
- If you withdraw from the race, PLEASE inform a marshal ASAP and do not cross the transponder mats if you are back in the garden bar with your bike.
- Bunch Riding can be dangerous: If you are not familiar with bunch riding please stay out of them. We tend to get one significant crash from the bunch riding on the road each year and we would really like none. This will mainly affect the Epic riders. Remember these rules: Be predictable with all actions, Avoid sudden braking and changes of direction or speed, Be smooth with turns at the front of the bunch, Always retire to the back of the bunch, Pedal downhill, Point out obstacles, Don’t overlap wheels, Do not panic if you brush shoulders, hands or bars with another rider, Look ahead, Obey the road rules.
- You will receive a Contact Epic Vehicle sticker at registration. Please place this on your car for two chances to be first at prize giving to pick from our top selection of spot prizes on our models. Traverse prize giving, 11 am / Cent, Epic and Classic at 5.30pm.
- If you want your bike cleaned after the race for $10, we have a fundraiser for the Girl Guides at the finish line. By the time you have had your 2nd beer the bike should be looking like new again. This means you can put it straight in the garage and not think about it again for a few weeks without feeling too guilty.
- Most importantly be safe out there. Focus on the journey, not the destination. If an opportunity arises to help someone out with a break down or at crash then take it. Karma will pay you back in spades. Record your time lost and we will credit it back to you. Traditionally we have the friendliest riders and volunteers out on course, it’s a tradition well worth preserving.
- If you are unsure about whether you will need lights, take them just in case. It will be dark just after 6.30pm. If you are not past the Dingle Bluffs by last light you will be withdrawn from the race. If you are still on the Traverse course at this time you should be calling for help!!
- Enjoy the day 😉
Posted in: News
Date: April 5th, 2019
Latest Newsletter
NO WAY IN AND NO WAY OUT!!!!
Yes, entries have closed and we have 620 gutsy riders ready to take on their own epic adventure! Congratulations.
Remember REGISTRATION IS COMPULSORY! (3-9pm Friday) We cannot accommodate anyone on the morning of the race.
Here are some other key points:
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
Emergency contacts must be someone who is NOT riding on the day. There are a number of unusual situations where we need to contact someone to support an injured rider there and then. If you have used a fellow rider as an emergency contact please log back in via this link by Sunday night and change it please. Click here
TANDEM AND EBIKES
If you are riding on a tandem or e-bike and did not note it in the comments section of your entry please flick us a quick email so we are aware.
TEA and SCONES
If you are new to the Contact Epic, you neeeeed to know about the world famous Tea and cream Scones at the Dingle Burn Aid Station. Run by the local Pony Club as a fundraiser for you dinning pleasure. A gold coin donation is sought; however notes are lighter than coins and could be used to fix a sidewall gash as well!!!
WITHDRAWALS
If you are unable to attend the event for any reason please flick us a quick email with your full name and category. This just keeps logistics tidy. Thanks.
MERCHANDISE
A limited number of tees, shorts and jerseys are still available to be purchased on line up until Sunday night. They will be available for collection at the merchandise tent at registration. Limited numbers will be available for sale on the day unless sold online. Click here
MEALS
Pre race pasta meals cost $25 ($30 on the night) and include a meat and vegetarian option, salad, bread and a dessert. Great value and available for support crew as well. You can purchase for family and friends as well. Purchase now Click here
TRANSPORTATION TO CLASSIC
If you are in the Classic and require a lift to the start line from the Hawea Hotel (finish line) you can book transportation with Ritchies via the options below. Book early as they need numbers by the start of next week to ensure enough seats!
Bookings: +64 03 4431920
Cell: +64 027 511 1264
Email: Wanaka.depot@ritchies.co.nz
Web: www.ritchies.co.nz
NUTRITION
Racers Edge will also have a shop at registration for your last minute nutrition and gear you may require. We recommend CLIF bars and BLOKS for this level of event as these will be available at the aid stations. Remember to trial your nutrition prior to the event.
ACCOMMODATION
If you don’t have accommodation booked then the ideal retreat pre and post race is Oakridge. Inform them of your entry and you will receive a 25% discount that includes free use of the gym, spa pools and heated pool. Onsite bar, restaurant and spa mean you don’t need to move if you don’t want to! Click here
CENTURIONS
A new course for 2019 that will require even more focus and determination. You will be rewarded for your efforts as the top section of the Hunter Valley is just simply outstanding. See me (Aaron) at registration if you need further course info. We will provide a small aid station of Clif products, Bananas, nuun since you have gone out of your way!!!
Posted in: News
Date: March 5th, 2019
It’s great for riders who don’t want to do just one kind of mountain biking, but who want to explore everything from XC marathons to epic descents. The dropper post upgrade makes this Fuel EX model even more capable. The NX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain gives you an extra-low climbing gear for tackling steep terrain. Wide Line Comp 30 wheels provide more tyre support, so you get better traction and control. For full specs check this out Click Here Water care with Whistler Performance Lubricants WPL
WPL only use bio-based and eco-friendly ingredients in their formulas. This means no petro-based additives, synthetic oils, or toxic organic solvents. This band supports our eco friendly, “leave no rubbish” approach to riding this event. Think of all the oils and lubes that wash off into or streams and rivers. One bike, no big deal, but 700 in the Epic or all the other races throughout the country plus every time we wash our bikes down! Please support WPL and LMS Events in saving the planet one river at a time. |
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Accommodation Special 25% off at Oakridge Resort
Oakridge Resort are offering a discounted accommodation package for the Contact Epic riders. Check out the room options. CLICK HERE A restaurant, hot pools, day spa and gym facilities all add to the superb rooms. Perfect for day before and the day after! They are also keen mountain bikers like you and long term supporters of the Contact Epic.
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Posted in: News
