The Goat Adventure Run
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The Goat Adventure Run : Tongariro National Park
The Goat is an approximately 20 km mountain trail that runs from Whakapapa to Turoa along the Round the Mountain track in Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Area. The course includes more than 1,000 metres of vertical ascent and traverses lava and scoria fields, mountain beech forest, tussock grassland, alpine herb fields, waterfalls, streams, and boulder-strewn rivers. Expect mud, uneven rocky terrain, steep climbs and descents, and multiple water crossings.
The event is self sufficient on course with no aid stations; organisers recommend carrying about 3 litres of water. There are toilets at the start and finish and a hut toilet approximately 14 km into the course. Compulsory gear must be presented at registration and carried on course; required items include clean dry footwear, a thermal long-sleeved top, thermal beanie and gloves, a thermal or survival bag (survival blankets are not acceptable), a whistle, a drink carrying device, and a suitable seam sealed weather barrier jacket. Random gear checks occur before the start and shoes will be subject to a clean and dry procedure to protect local waterways.
The event uses staggered wave starts to protect the environment and manage course flow. Waves are allocated using past results, estimated on-road half marathon time, and entry notes. The race enforces cut-offs at a 6.3 km checkpoint relative to wave start and a final event cut-off; runners who miss cut-offs will be withdrawn and recorded as DNF and provided transport off course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.