
Merrell TuffMan Update – Thursday 4th February
With only two days to go to the event we thought we’d just give a quick update on some of the final details. Please ensure that you are fully prepared for Saturday by reading the information below.
Venue
This event is being held on the private estate of Pippingford Park in the heart of Ashdown Forest. It consists of mostly woodland and heath with an abundance of natural wildlife, making for a truly stunning venue. The venue is the jewel in the crown for the Merrell Off-Road Series and will ensure an exciting and rewarding race in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Dogs
As this is a private estate with lots of natural wildlife, it is imperative that any dogs brought on site are kept on a lead at all times. Please observe this request and respect the surroundings.
Weather
The weather for Saturday is looking cloudy but dry with a maximum temperature of around 6 degrees. Remember to bring some warm/dry clothes to change into after the race.
Registration
In order to make the registration process a little quicker on Saturday morning, please check your race number from the entry list on our website. Click here to review your details. You will all need to pick up your race numbers and timing chips from the registration area before racing.
Race info
If you haven’t already seen this then please be sure to read it before Saturday – it contains all the information you might need. Please go to the pdf at the bottom of the webpage.
Relay duathlon race info
For those competing in the Relay Duathlon event, please take time to read the Relay instructions on the website. The timing chip is your 'baton'. Please go to the pdf at the bottom of the webpage.
Duathletes - What is a mountain bike?
This sounds like an odd question but this is a mountain bike event, and as such we are not allowing the use of cyclocross bikes. Our definition of a mountain bike is:
- It must look like a classic MTB - Hardtail or Full Sus
- Flat or riser handlebars - basically no drop handlebars
- Wheels should be 26 inch UNLESS the bike is one of the new generation 29er style MTB's
- Tyres need to be at least 1.5 inches wide
- Multiple gear bike - NO single speed bikes
Bikes will be checked when entering the transition area – if your bike doesn’t conform to the above then you risk not being allowed to race.
Bike condition
If you are doing the duathlon, please ensure that your bike is in good order – especially the tyres and the brakes. The course is rugged and is designed to allow you to have fun, but if you get a puncture half way round then it’s a long way back to transition if you can’t fix it there and then. Make sure you are prepared for anything!!
Lucozade Sport
You’re about to take part in something extraordinary and Lucozade Sport would like to reward you with the products you’ll need for recovery after this weekend’s Merrell TuffMan Off-Road event. Look out for our Lucozade Sport Body Fuel in your goodie bag when you cross the line – you’ll need it! Once you’re done, why not share your pictures and experiences with the world online on our new Facebook Page.
Finally
This is the final event in the Merrell Off-Road Series and we hope you have enjoyed taking part. We are currently planning the next series with new and exciting venues on the cards. See the website for more information.
See you all on Saturday.
Good luck and enjoy.
Regards

HUMAN RACE EVENTS