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What Is Quest Betws-y-Coed?

Part of the new UK Quest Adventure Series, with the first event taking place on 6th May 2017. Racers will test their ability with a choice of 3 demanding and scenic routes through the breath-taking Snowdonia National Park.

Embark on a physically grueling journey and be part of the Quest Betws Y Coed Adventure Race. We’ll take you on a demanding adventure through the spectacular and of Snowdonia Forest Park.

Quest BETWS Y COED is a one-day multi adventure sport race and is part of the Quest Adventure Series UK. The race involves running, cycling and kayaking across the spectacular mountains, valleys and lakes of Snowdonia Forest Park. Choose from 3 challenging routes, in one of the most epic location in Wales- Mini 25km, Sport 42km and the Expert 53km.
This race gives competitors the chance to run, cycle and kayak some of the most dramatic, breath taking and remote scenery in the world.

When
6th of May

Where
Betyws Y Coed, Wales

Registration will open in January 2017

ROUTE INFORMATION & PRECAUTIONS

The Quest Betws Y Coed team has put together a route that is both challenging and inspiring incorporating the rugged welsh landscape and breath taking scenery.

There are 3 different route options:
Expert 53kSport 42kMini 25k

Precautions
Competitors undertake Quest Betws Y Coed Adventure Race at their own risk.

Please familiarise yourself with the route maps, race briefing document and the areas on the route where care must be taken. Please observe warning signs, race stewards advice and listen carefully to the race briefing before the race.

*All routes are subject to change, statutory approval and license agreements.

 

Quest-Wales-Expert-Route53K EXPERT ROUTE INFORMATION

The race consists of the following 6 stages:

Stage 1: Trail Run – 6km

Description: Starting in Betws y Coed town centre, this stage will take you through a tough steep mountain trail towards Llnc Parc lake.

Terrain: Hill trail.

Stage 2: Cycle – 13km

Description: Description: Pick your bike up at the transition area and start this amazing cycle on the B5106 heading towards the picturesque village of Llanrwst. Turn left before you enter the village in the direction of Llyn Geirionydd Lake. On this stage you will encounter steep fast downhill cycling with sharp corners as you negotiate your way through this challenging section.

Terrain: Sealed road, varying in quality.

Stage 3: Kayak – 1km

Description: Kayak a circular route around the spectacular clear waters of Glyn Geirionydd Lake on double sit on top kayaks.

Restrictions: Competitors cannot bring their own Kayaks they must use the provided double sit on top kayaks & paddles. The buoyancy aid must be worn at all times.

Stage 4: Trail Run – 11km

Description:
After the kayak competitors follow a marked trail anti clockwise around Clyn Crafnant and back to the kayak transition area.
Competitors will embrace the panoramic views across the Snowdonia Forest Park.

Terrain: Walking trail, stone path, forest track, mountain track of good to rough quality with slippery muck and rock sections.

Stage 5: Cycle – 15km
Description: You will proceed to cycle from the kayak transition area back to the Betws y Coed area.

Terrain: Sealed road, varying in quality.

Stage 6: Trail Run – 7km

Description: Competitors will drop their bikes at the transition area and continue by foot along a marked trail. The checkpoint is at the top of a steep path which leads to Liyn Elsi Lake.
Terrain: Walking trail, stone path, forest track, mountain track.

ExpertActivityDistance (KM)
Stage 1Run6
Stage 2Cycle11
Stage 3Kayak1
Stage 4Run11
Stage 5Cycle15
Stage 6Run7

 

Quest-Wales-Sport-Route42K SPORT ROUTE INFORMATION

The race consists of the following 5 stages:

Stage 1: Trail Run – 6km

Description: Starting in Betws y Coed town centre, this stage will take you through a tough steep mountain trail towards Llnc Parc lake.

Terrain: Hill trail.

Stage 2: Cycle – 13km

Description: Description: Pick your bike up at the transition area and start this amazing cycle on the B5106 heading towards the picturesque village of Llanrwst. Turn left before you enter the village in the direction of Llyn Geirionydd Lake. On this stage you will encounter steep fast downhill cycling with sharp corners as you negotiate you way through this challenging section.

Terrain: Sealed road, varying in quality.

Stage 3: Kayak – 1km

Description: Kayak a circular route around the spectacular clear waters of Glyn Geirionydd Lake on double sit on top kayaks.

Restrictions: Competitors cannot bring their own kayaks they must use the provided double sit on top kayaks & paddles. Buoyancy aid must be worn at all times.

Stage 4: Trail Run – 11km

Description:
After the kayak competitors follow a marked trail anti clockwise around Clyn Crafnant and back to the kayak transition area.
Competitors can embrace the panoramic views across the Snowdonia National Park.

Terrain: Walking trail, stone path, forest track, mountain track of good to rough quality with slippery mud and rock sections.

Stage 5: Cycle – 11km
Description: You will proceed to cycle from the kayak transition area back to the Betws y Coed area.

Terrain: Sealed road, varying in quality.

SportActivityDistance (KM)
Stage 1Run6
Stage 2Cycle11
Stage 3Kayak1
Stage 4Run11
Stage 5Cycle11

Quest-Wales-Mini-Route25K MINI ROUTE INFORMATION

The race consists of the following 4 stages:

Stage 1: Cycle – 8km

Description: Description: Pick your bike up at the transition area and head in the direction of Llyn Geirionydd Lake. On this stage you will encounter steep fast downhill cycling with sharp corners as you negotiate your way through this challenging section.

Terrain: Sealed road, varying in quality.

Stage 2: Kayak – 1km

Description: Kayak a circular route around the spectacular clear waters of Glyn Geirionydd Lake on double sit on top kayaks.

Restrictions: Competitors cannot bring their own Kayaks and they must use the double sit on top kayaks & paddles provided. Buoyancy aid must be worn at all times.

Stage 4: Cycle – 10km
Description: You will proceed to cycle from the transition area back to the Betws y Coed area.

Terrain: Sealed road, varying in quality.

MiniActivityDistance (KM)
Stage 1Cycle8
Stage 2Kayak1
Stage 3Run6
Stage 4Cycle10

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Registration fees include:
– Customised finishers medal
– Customised event tec t-shirt
– The famous Japanese hot tubs at the finish line
– Prizes in all categories
– Massage at finish line
– Free after party and food voucher
– Kayak rental
– A great atmosphere and a fun day out
– Fully marshaled course

What is a Wave Time?
The race starts in staggered groups of 150 people. You can select a time depending on which race distance you are taking part in.

Selecting a Wave Time
When registering online please choose a wave time that best suits your fitness ability and your choice of route. You will not be able to change your wave time.

Elite Category
Enter this category if you think you have a chance of winning the race or are an experienced adventure racer. You can only win a prize if you are entered in this category.

Runner Category
Enter this category if you have some experience at adventure racing, triathlons and have good overall level of fitness.

Jogger Category
Enter this category if this is your first adventure race and you have a reasonable level of fitness.
Please note all waves times are subject to change.

 

BEFORE THE RACE

Pre-event online registration
All competitors must register online before the race. There is no registration on the day of the event.

Race Pack Collection
All competitors must collect their race pack in Betws Y Coed at the following times:
–Saturday 6th May (7.30am – 8.30am)

At registration please present the text message containing your race number which you will receive a few days before the race. If you do not receive a text please bring the email confirmation you receive when you register online.

Please note if you are collecting your race pack on Saturday morning you must collect your race pack 1 hour before you wave starts.

Your race pack includes:
– Timing dibber
– Race map
– Bib number
– Bike sticker

Race Start
All competitors will start in the village of Betws Y Coed with a rolling cycle start. Your mandatory kit will be checked before the race. If you do not have the required mandatory kit you will not be allowed to partake in the race.

AFTER THE RACE

Finish line
The race will finish in the village of Betws Y Coed. There will be massage facilities, hot tubs and hot food for all participants.

Bike collection
Competitors can collect their bikes from the secure bike racking area when they present their race bib number which will correspond with their bike sticker number.

Car parking
You will be directed towards the dedicated event carpark by marshal.

 

PRIZES
  • Overall male & female 1st, 2nd, 3rd
  • Competitor’s must enter the Elite wave to win the overall category prizes

RACE RULES AND GUIDELINES

  • Once entered no refunds, transfers or credit can be offered for cancellations for the events.
  • Mandatory Kit must be worn or carried as appropriate and as specified
  • There are no road closures for the cycling routes, competitors must follow the road traffic laws
  • All competitors must follow the prescribed route
  • Checkpoints must be visited in the correct order
  • Obey the environmental policy. Any competitor found littering by race marshals or fellow competitors can be reported and disqualified
  • Respect the local environment
  • Assist any persons who are in difficulty and report it to closest race marshall
  • Competitor’s must enter the Elite wave to win the overall category prizes
  • The Race Director’s decision is final
  • Competitors must be over 18yrs
  • In the event of inclement weather the organisers have the right to alter the route on the day of the event

ENVIRONMENTAL RULES & POLICY

Betws Y Coed is one of the most spectacular locations in the world. The course encompasses areas of special conservation, Snowdonia Forest Park and environmental sensitive bog and woodland. It is the objective of all competitors to leave it the way they find it and ensure adventure racing is a environmentally sustainable sport.

We are extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to hold the race in the national park and we are sure it will be one of the elements of the event you will remember.

We aim to minimize the impact the race has on residents and families in the proximity of the race route. We appreciate fully their cooperation in the running of the event.

It is of paramount importance that all competitors respect the following environmental policy:

  • Competitors must keep to the defined route and do not take short cuts.
  • Any competitors found littering will be automatically disqualified.
  • Respect the environment.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I register for the Race?
You can registration for the race online. There are limited places available so register now, to ensure you are disappointed.

What does the registration fee include:
– Custom made finishers medal
– Customised event tec t-shirt
– Kayak rental
– The famous Japanese hot tubs at the finish line
– Prizes in all categories
– Massage at finish line
– Free after party and food voucher
– A great atmosphere and a fun day out
– Fully marshalled course

When do I collect my race pack and rack my bike?
All competitors must collect their race pack in Betws-Y-Coed on:
–Friday 5th May
–Saturday 6th May

Can I register my bike on Saturday morning before the race?
Yes. All participants must bring their bikes to start line on Saturday morning.

What type of bike should I use?
The choice of bike is an individual choice. The most suitable bike would be a road bike with Gator Skin tyres and least suitable would be a Mountain Bike.

Do I need any specialist equipment?
Apart from the basics (bike, helmet, running shoes) you do not need any specialist equipment. We will provide you with a kayak, paddle and buoyancy aid. A full list of mandatory equipment is available at the end of the frequently asked questions.

Do I have to have any specialist map reading or mountain skill to compete in the race?
No. You will be provided with a map. The route is marked out with signs and race marshals will also be on hand along the route.

What is your refund policy?
When entering the event it is part of the terms and conditions that there is a non-refundable payment policy.

Is there any water available along the route?
The exact locations of water stops will be highlighted on the map given to you at registration. You will be required to bring water with you (to be carried by you) for the duration of the race.

Who provides my Kayak?
The event organisers will provide all kayaks, paddles and buoyancy aid. Competitors will not be allowed to bring their own kayaks due to the location of the kayak stage.

Do I need my own kayak, buoyancy aid or paddle?
No. The event organisers will provide all kayaks, paddles and buoyancy aid. Competitors will not be allowed to bring their own Kayaks due to the location of the Kayak stage.

How is the race timed?
Your race time and your progress through each stage is timed using a ‘dibber’ which is attached to your wrist.

Where are the time out sections?
There is only one time out section on the route. The only time out zone where competitors can be timed out, is while waiting for a kayak. The maximum amount of time allowed in the time out zone is 15 minutes. You can only be timed out if you are waiting for a kayak.

Can I compete in the race as a team?
No.

How can I contact Quest Betws-Y-Coed if I have any more questions?
Feel free to contact us with any questions by emailing info@eliteevents.ie or call the Quest Team on 087 602 4621.

Can I listen to my iPod during the race?
No. It is extremely dangerous to listen to music whilst cycling as the roads are not closed and are open to local traffic.

Can I raise money for charity?
Yes. We encourage everybody to raise money for charity.

What Items are included in the mandatory kit?
It is vital that all competitors bring the following mandatory kit with them from the start.

  • Basic First Aid Kit (Min: 1 x Dressing Pad (field dressing), Bandage, Plasters).
  • Map of the route (included in your race pack).
  • Survival blanket and whistle.
  • Appropriate food and drink. There will be limited water re-filling points on the course.
  • Cycle helmet, bike repair kit, spare tube, pump.
  • Hat, gloves and waterproof jacket.
  • Suitable footwear.
  • Backpack or bum bag.
  • All kit will be checked before the race.

MANDATORY KIT

It is vital that all competitors bring the following mandatory kit list with them from the start.

  • Basic First Aid Kit (Min: 1 x Dressing Pad (field dressing), Bandage, Plasters).
  • Map of the route (included in your race pack).
  • Survival blanket and whistle.
  • Appropriate food and drink. There will be limited water re-filling points on the course.
  • Cycle helmet, bike repair kit, spare tube, pump.
  • Hat, gloves and waterproof jacket.
  • Suitable footwear.
  • Backpack or bum bag.
  • All kit will be checked before the race.