ADVENTURE RACING

Queenstown announced as 2017 location for GODZone

By QT Magazine

New Zealand’s preeminent adventure and tourism destination, Queenstown, has been announced today as the location for the 2017 edition of GODZone.
 
As the largest expedition length adventure race in the world, Chapter 6 of GODZone will attract competitors from around the globe to compete. Race Director Warren Bates says Queenstown will be one of the star attractions for the 2017 event.
 
“Queenstown is a captivating place for adventure with its spectacular mountain ranges, crystal clear lakes, fast moving rivers and is fast becoming one of the world’s pre-eminent mountain bike locations. It is known as the Southern Hemispheres premiere lake and alpine resort and is undoubtedly New Zealand’s favorite adventure destination. We couldn’t ask for a more dazzling setting to host next years GODZone,” says Bates.
 
In an unprecedented move, the organisers have announced the 2017 host location earlier than previous years due to significant interest in the adventure race that this year has attracted New Zealand Rugby Legend Richie McCaw.
 

Photo courtesy of QT Magazine

“Chapter 5 sold out in just two hours and we have received a huge amount of enquiry about where we will go for Chapter 6 – there is a real buzz about the event at the moment. It makes sense to get the destination out as soon as possible, giving teams plenty of preparation time to plan coming to GODZone next year,” says Bates.
 
Many teams turn the event into a longer holiday or add sightseeing to their itinerary.With the family friendly location and allure of Queenstown it is important to facilitate that by giving as long a lead time as possible.”
 
Entries for the 2017 GODZone in Queenstown will open on the 1^st July 2016 and team spots will be strictly limited as in previous years.
 
Bates says the Queenstown course, that will remain a secret until the event gets underway, has been five years in the making.
 
“As a company we are fortunate to be based in the Queenstown and New Zealand’s Southern Lakes region. It’s a fantastic place to work and play. Ever since GODZone started we have been working on creating an amazing event and course to showcase our backyard. There is so much to see and do here, so many adventure activities to take on and the wilderness is on the town’s doorstep.


Photo courtesy of QT Magazine

I personally am very excited about hosting the teams here and taking them to places theyhave never before experienced.”
 
GODZone 2016 is being hosted in Kaiteriteri and the greater Tasman district from the 2^nd – 9^th April. The 70 competing teams can be followed via GPS tracking online at the live GODZone website with 24 hour news updates, photos, video and commentary.
 
GODZone is an official member of the Adventure Racing World Series and a qualifier for the AR World Championships.
 
For more information on GODZone http://godzoneadventure.com
or the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/godzoneadventure