True West Schools Adventure Race

True West Schools Adventure Race

This is your chance to get outdoors, challenge yourself, and experience the thrill of adventure racing with your mates. Whether you're a weekend explorer or a full-on adrenaline junkie, this event is all about teamwork, skill, and pushing your limits in classic West Coast terrain.

It’s also the perfect stepping stone to the legendary True West events.

Race Categories (By School Year)

Choose your challenge:

• Junior – Years 7–8
  3–4 hour adventure race

• Intermediate – Years 9–10
  4–6 hour adventure race

• Senior – Years 11–13
  6–8 hour adventure race

All team members must be currently enrolled students. Proof of school affiliation may be required.

Team Options

You can race in teams of 2, 3, or 4 students:

• Girls, boys, or mixed teams welcome

• Mixed-school teams are allowed (see categories below)

• No support crew required — this is a fully unsupported event

School Race Categories

To keep the competition fair and inclusive, there are two main categories:

1. Four-Person Schools Category (Competitive Category)

For teams of four students racing in the correct age grade.

Teams may be:

• From the same school (all-girls, all-boys, or mixed)

• From a maximum of two schools

Mixed teams of four are eligible for main competitive placings and prizes.

2. Open Schools Category

For:

• Teams of 2–4 students

• Teams made up of students from multiple schools

• Any gender mix

This is a fun and inclusive category focused on participation, skill development, and the adventure experience.

What’s Included?

• Mountain biking

• Trekking

• Navigation

• Wild West Special Test

Whether you're racing to win or simply want an unforgettable outdoor experience, this is your opportunity to be part of something epic.

No Support Crew Required

This is an unsupported event — it’s all about your team, your decisions, and your ability to work together in the wild West Coast environment.

Get your team together, start training, and let’s make 2027 next-level awesome!

Safety Requirements for School Teams

To take part in the True West Adventure Race, all school teams must meet the following safety requirements:

• Swimming:
  You must be able to swim confidently.

• River crossings:
  You must feel confident crossing rivers, including:

  • Slow-moving water up to waist height

  • Faster-flowing water up to knee height
    (Water depth may feel different depending on your height.)

• Mobile phone:
  Everyone in the team must know how to use the team’s mobile phone, including:

  • Unlocking the phone and knowing the PIN

  • Who to call if there is an emergency or if you need help

• Following rules:
  You must be trustworthy and follow all event rules, instructions, and directions from race officials.

• Cycling and road rules:
  You must:

  • Know and follow New Zealand road rules for cyclists

  • Obey normal road rules and ride safely at all times

• Basic first aid:
  You should know basic first aid, including:

  • How to treat cuts, grazes, and blisters

  • What to do for sprains and minor injuries

  • How to recognise signs of hypothermia (getting too cold) and overheating

  • When to ask for medical help

• Navigation:
  At least one person in your team must be confident with:

  • Reading a map

  • Following written course instructions

These safety requirements help keep you, your teammates, and other competitors safe during the race.