2005 GS Challenge

[FortyZA]

As a first time entrant into the 2005 GS Challenge, I was wandering if there was anyone who did it last year and is willing to supply information / helpful tips of what to take with in the line of camping stuff and emergency equipment as well as everyday wearing apparel? Bearing in mind that everything that you take with you must be attached to your bike as no vehicles are allowed.

We want this trip to go off without a hitch and any information, however limited would be highly appreciated.

[Mud Pooh-bah]

I would advise the following:
Camping stuff
- 2 or three man tent (Campcraft makes a very good 3 man tent) - You want it to be light and small when packed
- Sleeping bag (at least rated for -5, make sure that it can be compacted to take up as little space as possible, without interfering with a good nights sleep)
- Mattress - Here you have three options 1)an inflatable mattress (remember to take the 12V pump along 2) Self inflatable mattress or 3) Rubber foam mattress
- Camping chair (As small and light as possible)
- Pillow - Here you can also use four options 1) A normal pillow 2)A compact camping pillow 3) An inflatable pillow and 4) a empty pillow cover which you fill with clothes,towels etc

Clothing
- Take normal toiletries including a towel
- During the day it will be hot, and even more hot if you ride technical stuff. My advise is to wear as cool clothing as possible - without reducing protection. Off road and MX clothing and protectors works well. A normal riding jacket may proof too hot. Take a fleece top along - in case of cold weather and wear in conjunction with a rain coat.
- Take warm clothing for the evenings as it will be cool
- Rain jacket
Remember it is better to dress in layers. That way you can add or remove as needed

Accessories
- Rug-sack to carry water, raincoat and food packs
I will also advise to take a Hydration pack like Camelbak or similar as this helps to prevent you from dehydration.

Emergency equipment
- All personal medication
- A first aid kit may help
There will a back-up team consisting of medical and technical personnel. The organizers will hand out telephone numbers of people to be contacted in case of medical or technical assistance. So I would advise to bring a cell phone along.

All food, eating utensils, food packs etc is normally supplied by the organizers. Last year there was also a bar to ensure that the participants could prevent any thirst during the evening.

Remember to bring your camera to share the experience with all those who could not participate!!!

[GSpot]

Mud Pooh-bah you forgot two very important things:

A sense of adventure...... ;D

A sense of humour...... ;D

[Mud Pooh-bah]

Yes my humble apology. You will need a lot of both ;D

Remember adventure is caused by a lack of planning. So if you plan too much you may miss the adventure.

A sense of humour is what you need when you realised that you forgot to pack a towel

[FortyZA]

Thanks very much. I have thought much along those same lines. I will put most of that stuff together and see how I can strap that onto my bike without going too wild.

Your feedback was great, maybe we get a chance to speak while we are down there enjoying ourselves. See you guys there.