Trail Quest

What are Trail Quests?

In simple terms, Trail Quests are off-road cycling orienteering events usually on mountain bikes. You can work as a team or on your own to try to locate markers left in certain out-of-the-way places cleverly dreamt up by the organisers.

What is the format of the event?

There will be an event headquarters where you start and finish at. Your team is given a map of the local area with circles showing the location of markers and a list of clues on what to look for or what information you have to write down. Markers would have different points values (10, 20, 30, 40 or 50 depending on the difficulty in reaching the marker). You note down the information at the marker and return the sheet to the headquarters. Your sheets are processed and the winners are those with the most points. The points achieved by all teams are then provided on the event report.

How long are the events?

The adult event is 3½ hours but there is a 2 hour family event for those teams with one or two under 16s. Team are started at one minute intervals and have to try to return within the time period otherwie they will receive time penalties which get progressively heavier the longer they are late.

What skills do I need?

Some map reading skills are required as well as competent use of a mountain bike.

Why should I take part?

Normally held during the winter, these trailquests are great fun, an exciting way to stay in shape and you will see parts of the countryside you would never see out riding yourself. The event caters for all levels of cyclists and you can go at your own pace collecting as many markers as you can. After all the events you are provided with soup & rolls, tea/coffee which gives you the opportunity to socialise with like minded people. Dromara Cycling Club also use the proceeds from these events to raise money for local charities.

Previous Trail Quest reports

2011-2012
Round 1 (Lady Dixon, Belfast) 30 October 2011
Round 2 (Dromara) 11 December 2011
Round 3 (Seaforde) 27 December 2011
Round 4 (Saul, Downpatrick) 15 January 2012
Round 5 (Shimna Valley) 29 January 2012

2010-2011
Round 1 (Dromara) 31 October 2010
Round 2 (Lagan Valley) 5 December 2010
Round 3 (Killinchy) 12 December 2010
Round 4 (Seaforde) 16 January 2011
Round 5 (Shimna Valley) 30 January 2011