Survive to Race 2021
31 january to 4 february 2021
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The Course
This course will be run with a maximum of 14 people and would be geared towards those entering or intending to enter the MYAU. However, it is also open to anybody doing other winter ultra events or expeditions as the skills of course are not just required for the MYAU. (if you wish a bespoke course for a group or individuals we will be more than happy to work with you. Please submit our contact form here )
Cyclists are welcome as many of the learning outcomes taught will be required in the race. The course will be based on foot and ski travel. If you are a cyclist and require further information please contact Stewart directly.
It will be an opportunity to become familiar with the equipment to be carried and used on the MYAU whilst acclimatising. The main topics to be covered in the four days will be:
Cyclists are welcome as many of the learning outcomes taught will be required in the race. The course will be based on foot and ski travel. If you are a cyclist and require further information please contact Stewart directly.
It will be an opportunity to become familiar with the equipment to be carried and used on the MYAU whilst acclimatising. The main topics to be covered in the four days will be:
- Equipment, clothing, footwear and outerwear - Layering for “dry cold”, finding out what works for you in the Yukon, how much to carry and find out what you don’t need
- Shelter, bivvy, tent or tarp and a chance to become familiar with, and adapt, your own shelter for maximum warmth
- Nutrition - Effects of cold on calorific intake, hydration, how to plan your food
- Cold weather first aid and hygiene - Recognising cold injuries, prevention of immersion foot, frostbite and hypothermia, what to include in a first aid kit
- Sled/pulk and harness set up - Become acquainted with your pulk and harness, correct fitting of harness and alternative set ups
- Operating in extreme temperatures -General awareness of cold conditions, how they affect your body, tips on reducing cold effects, melting snow, how to deal with getting wet
- Stoves and cooking - Introduction to the Primus stove, other stoves, lighting and maintenance, use of stove boards
- Emergency shelter construction and fire lighting - Simple emergency shelters, simple fire starting techniques
- Race planning and tactics - how to plan your race
Lessons will be taught in a mixed environment split between classroom and the great outdoors, the emphasis being on outdoors as much as possible. The itinerary for each day is flexible and to some extent depends on the weather and the needs of those on the course. The days will be long but not physically demanding, with some sessions taking place in the evening.