The Merida Whaka 100 is an event designed to specifically challenge those riders who want to completely test their body and mind. The challenge was laid down in Zippys Cafe at the start of 2007 - Dean, you should really run a 100km race - and the response was given with interest with the design of a course that is arguable New Zealands toughest mountain bike marathon.

EVENTS RUN ON THE DAY

For the Merida Whaka 100 event we offer four different events:

Short Course Individuals: 25km
Medium Course Individuals: 50km
Whaka 100 Individuals: 100km
Whaka 100 Teams: 100km only

The 100km course is the ultimate challenge in mountain biking in New Zealand. Sure there might be longer races in distance but none have the amount of single track we offer. And that is the kicker - you love it when you ride it but it will hurt. The 100km course encompasses pretty much everything in the forest. Enough said really.

The teams event for the 100km course has two legs split into 60km for leg 1 and 40km for Leg 2. What leg is the hardest? The long first leg or the shorter second leg with a lot of climbing? You decide and see if you were right.

For those who take the challenge of the 50km courses you will see great views of lakes and landscapes. Well, those who can get them in focus will!

The 25km course is designed for recreational riders who want to get out and explore new trails.

If you havent been on a big adventure for some time, we recommend you carry basic riding gear: warm clothes, food, plenty of water, tools, tubes, patches and pump. Maybe even a camera.

Challenge yourself through some the best single-track trails in the world.

THE PLACE

The Merida Whaka 100 event will start and finish at the mountain bike carpark off Waipa State Mill Road. It will be signposted off SH5 a few kms south of town. It is easy riding distance from town if you want a pre-race warm-up. Biking back after the event could be a problem though.

As well as registration on site, there will also be great food and coffee, plus a variety of trade stands showing off the latest and greatest mountain bike gear and with the last minute supplies for the journey ahead.

REGISTRATION

You can pre-enter online on the website right up until 12pm, Saturday 16 October, the day prior to each event. Once this closes will be accepting registrations between 2pm and 6pm the same day in store at Bikevegas.

For race day Race HQ is next to the car park off Waipa State Mill Road and you can register from 07:00hrs on Sunday 17 October - for you to register and collect your race pack.

If you can get in and register on Saturday it will definitely save you time on race day.

On the day entries will be taken for each event at registration - though there is a late fee of $15.

ENTRY FEES

25km and 50km: $45
100km: $95
Teams (100km only): $110 per team

Leave it late and enter on the day you will need to pay a $15 late entry fee.

COURSE MAPS