The course for the 2020 XTERRA National Championships starts with a swim in the Murray River at Baden Powell. Depending on the amount of rain we have, the water temperature could still be quite cool at this time of year as well.

There is a short, 500 metre or so run to the MTB transition area, so it would be worth bringing a second pair of running shoes with you if you can.

The MTB ride heads out into the rolling hills of Dwellingup in an area known as Murray Valley taking in some natural Australian bush and some pine plantation trails. Some people may find there are some big and steep climbs in the course, others may not, it depends on your perception, what you are used to and where you come from in the world. Whichever way you look at it, some of the climbs are big and steep for Dwellingup anyway.

One thing a number of travellers find “tricky” when they come to Western Australia to ride or race their MTB is the “Pea Gravel” and Dwellingup has lots of it. Riding on pea gravel can feel like riding on ball bearings sometimes, but once you get used to your bike moving around under you a little, it is really good fun.

Tyre choice can be critical on the pea gravel as well and we would recommend a front tyre that is a little chunky with plenty of grip. I personally like the Specialized Ground Control 29 x 2.3” wide. I would then run a Specialized Fast Track 29 x 2.3 on the back.

The MTB course takes in some fantastic single track and depending on what distance you are racing, you may get to do it twice. That is, the MTB course is about 15 kms long, so the long course will do 2 laps of the course and the short course will do 1 lap.

The same description applies for the run, natural Australian bush, pine forests and either 1 or 2 laps of a 5 km course.

Oh, and did we mention some magnificent views?……… that is, if you have enough energy to lift your head up and take them in…….. and appreciate the beautiful Murray Valley.

Tony Tucknott, Course Designer