The dates have been set and registrations are open for the 2012 Terra Australis. Not only is the event back for 2012 but it is back with plenty of changes.
Terra Australis started in 2009 running under the same format as legendary international events, the Trans Alp, Trans Rockies and ABSA Cape Epic. After three years of the seven day format the event will now shift to a 5 day format, all based out of Bright in Victoria’s spectacular alpine region and will include solo categories for the first time. The event will run from Friday 2nd November to Tuesday 6th November 2012.
Adrian Scott on his way to a maiden stage win at Terra Australis through the singletrack in Bright Victoria
Not only are there changes to the format but also to the management team. Coming onboard to join Clayton Neil and Iain Moore is Bicycle Superstore CEO, Nigel Letty, Torq Nutrition Australia owner, Dean Clark and mountain bike organiser, Russ Baker.
“We are thrilled to have the experience of Nigel, Dean and Russ around the table” said Clayton Neil. “These guys have been around the sport for years and have contributed significantly to where the sport is today. All three of them have been involved with Terra from the very first day as either sponsors or running the timing, although anyone who knows Russ, knows full well he doesn’t just do the timing”.
The changes to the format have come about from rider feedback and to make the event accessible for the average weekend warrior. “The event needed to evolve” said Nigel Letty. “The people who have done Terra in the past love it. It is tough and being based in the most mountainous part of Australia it will continue to be so, but it will be more accessible, in particular the shorter duration. The move to a single location in Bright will help ease the logistical requirements and the solo categories will remove one of the biggest challenges facing potential competitors, finding a ride partner who is the same speed and fitness as you”.
The event will retain the three day T3 format and the teams categories will also still remain. Check out the Terra Australis website for more information on what promises to be a memorable mountain bike experience.