Note that this article was first published 31 July 2014 at Rogue Adventure.
The township of Somerset is set to host the 2015 edition of the Rogue24 Adventuregaine. Approximately 1.5 hours north west of Brisbane, the course setting possibilities for this area are extremely exciting. With land access to some classic privately owned cattle country, hilly state forestry and national park trails and open waterways connecting them all, next year’s Rogue is sure to truly test the navigational skills of all those who secure a place.
Event entries will open towards December this year. The 2014 edition, which had capacity for 60 teams, sold out in less than a month. At this stage I am planning on just running the 24hr course with a limit of 50 teams, so those looking for a spot in Australia’s biggest 24 hour adventure race will need to get in early. I am also looking into the options of opening a concurrent 8 hour event, however this will ultimately depend on final permits, boat logistics and volunteer takeup.
All of the features of past Rogue editions are set to make a return next year including custom built maps, live GPS tracking, online live reporting, cheap entry, no-fuss logistics and grass-roots event organisation. As usual, strategy and precise navigation will play just as important a role as raw fitness. Whilst not quite reaching the lofty standards of this years start line facilities, HQ at Somerset Dam Campground will provide all the luxuries a rogaining adventure racer could aspire to including access to hot showers, toilets and a camp fire to warm your toes around mid race.
So lock in the weekend of April 25 – 26, 2015 for what is sure to be a highlight on the adventure racing calendar next year. In the interim, keep an eye the Rogue Adventure website and Facebook page for more news, photos and clues from the course as they come to hand.
