Hi team, thanks for offering to be part of the 2009 race crew. Things are looking pretty good for February, and as you are the most important part of the event its about time we let you know what’s going on.

If you’ve got any problems or are no longer able to come and help please let us know so we can track down a few other people, and if you have any questions fire them our way.

We will meet in Mt Somers at 10am on Wednesday morning. You’ll need to bring a:

• small tent;
• sleeping bag;
• bed roll;
• warm jacket;
• rain jacket;
• sunhat; and some
• clothes.

We also suggest bringing:

• swimming togs;
• a camera;
• alarm clock;
• sunscreen; and
• sunglasses.

We will supply you with:

• transport each day, and return to Mt Somers on Sunday. If you want to bring a car that's not a problem. Please let us know what you are planning;
• a 90 L gearbag for all your stuff, you'll have to put your tent into this;
• breakfasts, lunches and dinners...and a few drinks in the evening;
• some very cool race socks; and
• the chance to wear a flouro high vis vest.

Other things:

• We will be camping with the riders, but in our own area. There will be washbasin facilities at each campsite, and plenty of toilets. There are only showers on the Thursday night. On Wednesday and Friday there are rivers/lakes to swim in.
• If you are staying in Tekapo for the prizegiving function, which we hope you are, we will give you a free ticket, and provide camping accomodation.
• If you need any equipment or a tent we suggest you try R&R Sport, they will sort you out and give you a deal, especially if you see Graeme at the Christchurch branch (he is racing so will want to look after you).

Tasks will change each day and we will try and keep everyone doing different things. We have a great team of volunteers, which means there should be time to go for a wander, sit in the sun, read a book and relax. However there may be times when we are busy and a little stressed, so you'll have to bear with us!

Jobs will include:

• Course marshalling
• Tent and campsite duties (serving breakfast/dinner, putting up marquee etc)
• Finishline and checkpoint control
• General assistance

If you have any preference please let us know. We can't guarantee anything, but will try and place you in jobs that match your preferences.

At 10.00am we will meet in Mt Somers and get people organised for the Wednesday, following that we will have a race crew meeting each evening at 8.30pm, to organise people for the following day.

To recap, please can you tell us:

1. Are you free for the whole time?
2. Do you have any special job requests?
3. Will you be bringing a car?

Great thanks, we hope you're looking forward to the event, it's going to be magic.