FAQ
How do I get there?
FLY You can fly direct into Newcastle from Melbourne, Brisbane and Gold Coast.
OR DRIVE If you are in NSW - Newcastle is just a 2 a 1/2 hour drive from Sydney
What is included in my entry fee?
Your Entry gets you your entry to ride in all 4 days of the event, includes fees for all National Parks and Forests, Timing Chips and Race Plates, Shuttle transfers back to the Start Line from the Finish Line on Day2 and 4 (however you MUST prebook) Water at each Start/Finish line and on course, Recovery drink at finish lines, a rider gift and event program and the amazing experience that is Port to Port MTB.
Where can I stay?
There are so many options in this beautiful region, here are a few we recommend.
Unpack just the once....You can use Newcastle as a base. Each Start/Finish line is no more than 45 minutes away from Central Newcastle - Newcastle has everything from Camping to 5 star.
Check out the many options at Visit Newcastle's website http://www.visitnewcastle.com.au/
Our friend's at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley & Rydges Newcastle will be able to help you with everything Port to Port.
I don't have a support crew.... Can I still race?
We prefer you bring a crew so we can all hang out, however if you can't the Port to Port family can look after you. Wespac Volunteers can arrange a bag drop for you for a gold coin donation at the Start Line for each day and there will be shuttles to take you to your the start line on stage 4.
Which bike do I bring?
It would have to be one of the most commonly asked questions we receive in the lead up to the event, what bike should I bring? For some people they only have one bike to choose from but for others they have the luxury of choosing between multiple different machines. The simplest question to ask when contemplating what bike to bring is how well you want to go in the race.
Q. Do you want to excel in your category?
A. Bring the lightest bike that you have. A hardtail is perfectly fine and so is a lightweight XC Dually.
Q. Do you want to have a bit of fun but also be fast?
A. Bring a bike that has 110 or 120mm of travel up front and 100 or 110mm of travel in the rear. A lot of our singletrails suit this style of bike.
Q. Just in it for fun?
A. Bring whatever bike you would like!
Q. What wheel size?
A. A touchy subject but for this style of event a 29er is the ideal weapon of choice no matter what suspension style!
How does the elite seeding work?
At Port to Port MTB our aim is for all riders to get the most out of their ride experience, with the best possible time and maximum enjoyment.
2018 P2P is a self seeding event, so each rider is required to position themselves within the starting chute in line with their ability. The Race Management do keep an area at the front of the grid for sponsored elite riders and top end riders, however, all riders start as a single group for stage 1.
When do registrations close?
For information on the Port to Port MTB withdrawal and refund policy, please read the Rider Terms and Conditions
What services are at the Start/Finish Line?
Each Start and Finish line will have Registration, Information, First Aid, Bike Mechanics, Massage, Recovery, Food and Drink for purchase and a finish line festival on day 4.
What is your withdrawal and refund policy?
For information on the Port to Port MTB withdrawal and refund policy, please read the Rider Terms and Conditions on the registration page
Can riders of all levels participate?
Port to Port MTB welcomes riders of all abilities. Our motto is ‘it’s a ride, not a race’. While there are elite riders participating each year, inexperienced entrants who are new to the sport of mountain biking also enter.
Are there age restrictions on the event?
Riders must be 15 years or older on the day of the event. Riders under the age of 18 must submit a minor registration waiver form with their application and must be accompanied on the ride by a nominated adult.
Riders under the age of 18 must not ride more than 2 minutes apart from their nominated adlut at all times.
Support crew under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
I am disabled. May I participate?
All reasonable efforts will be made to facilitate the access and inclusion of any persons with disabilities. Please contact us directly if you have related enquiries.
How can I volunteer and help out with the event?
Email porttoport@ironman.com with your details and availability and we will get back to you!
What is the approximate distance of each Day?
Based on previous events the below distance are guide only
Stage 1 - 45km.
Stage 2 - 45km.
Stage 3 - 60km.
Stage 4 - 45km.
Is the ride timed?
Yes, the ride is timed. Rider times will be made available upon completion of each stage and will be uploaded to the Port to Port MTB website shortly thereafter. Please be patient with our timers and do not approach them at the finish line until everyone has completed the day’s stage.
Eligible for Elite grading?
Simply email your MTB credentials to porttoport@ironman.com and once assessed you'll be added to the list.
Can I start the race with my friends? Even we are in different categories (eg masters 1 and masters 2)?
Yes! You can definately start with your friends. Port to Port MTB is fun for all! The exception - The elite category is strictly for elites only. The first day is self seeded, the following days are based on your ride time, however if you want to hang back with your mates - go for it!
How many litres of water would you recommend we carry?
There will be water stations at the half way point but do not rely on them. Riders will need a 2 or 3L hydration pack, like a Camelbak, for water. We also suggest riders carry a bottle of electrolytes.
Depending on your speed you will be riding for 3-5 hours each day. It is each rider’s responsibility to carry enough water and nutrition.
What was the approximate temperature we will be riding in?
The weather in the area ranges daily, but for the past few years the temperature has consistently been between 18°C and 22°C.
Is accommodation included in the any of the packages?
Our friends at Flight Centre Active Travel can help you with inclusive packages covering rider entry, accommodation and hire car. We're sure they'd be able to help you out with flights also ;)
I am interested in sponsoring the event. How do I go about doing this?
A number of sponsorship opportunities exist for organisations keen to become involved with the Port to Port MTB. Please contact us with your sponsorship enquiries by phoning oir toll free number 1300 761 384 or emailing us at porttoport@ironman.com
What road closures will be in place?
View the 2018 Road Closure Schedule
