Explore Gippsland Postponed

After careful consideration we have made the difficult decision to postpone the inaugural Explore Gippsland Adventure Race. Again. It feels like our team is only just coming to terms with the devastating effects of the recent bushfires in Gippsland and many other parts of Australia, and now we are having to grapple with the uncertainties of the ever-evolving COVID-19 landscape. While we understand this decision will be hugely disappointing for all involved, it's absolutely critical that we minimise the risk of public exposure to COVID-19. Our priority is the health and safety of not only our athletes, but volunteers, family members and the broader community.

But there are less than 500 competitors?! While events of over 500 are mandated to be cancelled, smaller events still have a duty of care to reduce potential risks and take measures to contain the pandemic. Particularly so when a great proportion of competitors will be travelling from interstate at a time when all non-essential travel is being discouraged. With a background in Biomedical Science (including virology) and being currently employed in the fields of Preventative Health and Health Promotion, it would be irresponsible of me to advocate for continuing with this event in the near future.

We have weighed up the option of cancelling the event until 2021, but after discussions with several experienced athletes, and knowing the amazing course we have to share, we have decided that it would be great to still hold the event in 2020. Pending permit approvals the new event date will be 24-25th October 2020. Further announcements regarding the full calendar of A1 Adventure events can be expected in coming week as we monitor the current health crisis and government recommendations. If you need some more reading on the recommendations for endurance sports check the link below.  We are planning some training activities that can be done in smaller groups over the next few months. If you and your team are still keen to travel to Gippsland,

we can organise some great adventures for you using alternatives to the official course.  In the meantime, use the ever-increasing free weekends to visit new places and improve your skills so you can come back to racing fitter and smarter than ever. Thank you for your understanding and please take care of yourself and your family, and wash your hands. Again.  Kind Regards Rob Preston Explore Gippsland Adventure Race Dates: proposed dates 24-25th October, 2020 Location: Erica, Gippsland, Victoria, Australia.  Events: 30hr (A1 Series)- Premier Mixed, Female and Male teams of 4.  13hr (A2 Series)-  Premier Mixed, Female and Male teams of 2. 3-6hr (Sprint Distance)- Premier Mixed, Female and Male teams of 2. Perfect introduction to the sport with basic navigation, kayaking equipment provided and still visiting amazing locations.  Core disciplines:  trekking, mountain biking, kayaking, packrafting (30hr only) and off-track navigation. Find Out More COVID-19 - uessm.org15 March 2020 Dear Endurance Sporting Community, The rapid spread of the COVID-19 to 114 countries with over 4,000 deaths, led the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a global pandemic. Around the world, government officials are undertaking unprecedented actions to respond to and mitigate the spread of this virus and manage the hospitalization of those severely affected.