We hope everyone is looking forward to racing this weekend. Our local experts have been busy laying out a tough and memorable course for both the Sprint and Extreme events. Here are some notes that should help you prepare in advance for the course:

Start/Finish Location
Brandy Creek Marina (not Brandy Creek Beach or Campground).  Also, $5 parking pass is required and is available at the Marina. This is where you will be staging your gear – this is the primary transition area for the race.
> Extreme Race (24hr): Oct. 8 Check-in at 7am, Race Start at 9am
> Sprint Race (4-6hr): Oct. 8 Check-in at 11am, Race Start at 1pm
…..As always, our award-winning post-race food-fest will be available when you cross the finish line!

Boat Renters
If you ordered and rented a boat via our website, Aquan Sports will be on hand to issue you your boat as you are renting from them. For each rental, Aquan will also be bringing the paddle(s) and PFD(s).

Plants & Animals
Unfortunately, poison oak is fairly prevalent in lower elevations in the park, especially in riparian areas–please take precautions if you are susceptible. Bears, mountain lions, and rattlesnakes are also residents. Not usually a problem, but check for ticks. Bring some spray if you’re annoyed by gnats.

Recommended Items
In addition to the mandatory gear listed on the website for each event, gaiters are highly recommended for both events. For the longer course, trekking poles may also be very helpful. Check the mandatory gear lists on the website www.norcal-ar.com for your respective race. All items are clearly listed.

Course Hints
Long course: Starts on bike with trek sections interspersed – you will need to have your bike lights with you from the beginning as you may not return to the staging TA until dark. Expect 10 hours plus for fastest teams before returning to staging TA with your gear — therefore, bring enough food from the beginning. You should obtain water from creeks along the course, bring purification method as we will not have water for you on-course. You need to be able to carry enough water for 6 to 8 hours of strenuous trekking. At least some of the kayaking will be at night — bring some warm clothes. Some of the downhill trekking sections are dusty, covered with pine needles (i.e. very slippery), and lots of sharp branches if you fall — highly, highly recommend trekking poles. Lots of off-trail (and overgrown trail) travel and route choices.

Short course: Starts with a kayak leg.  Fastest team should finish the entire course in around four hours.

Weather Forecast
Weather looks great with highs around 80 and lows in mid 50′s. Though, it can feel even colder at higher elevations and if you are paddling on the water with wind.

We look forward to some great weather and a fantastic finish to the 2011 NORCAL AR Series.

See you this weekend!