This event is principally a team challenge so try and train as a team as much as possible from orienteering to cycle fitness; you are fortunate to have the whole summer ahead with plenty of long evenings! This race should be mentally and physically challenging so it is best to do some preparatory training.

All team members need to be running fit and if individual members haven't been on mountain bikes for a while then you need to also plan to ride on some rough terrain.

Running - Ok, it’s not a marathon distance but it needs to be appreciated that Drumlanrig Estate is very big so get off the road and run on tracks and forest trails to get your limbs prepared – always run at a steady pace and allow your body to adjust to the strains.

Transition Training - When you enter a transition area the race clock does not stop and you are in real race time, so your kit has to be well organised – transition means a change of equipment, eating / hydrating, fixing your feet or changing shoes or simply just grabbing 10 minutes rest.

So plan some time to think about the kit you will need in your transition box and plan to be slick when changing from running kit to bike kit. Good transitions can make the difference between winning and losing the race – recommendations for kit / transition is provided on the event info page.

Cycling skills - Cycling off-road will enable you to get comfortable with steep ascents, descents and narrow paths. Learning to cycle over awkward steps and small logs may be helpful. Bike maintenance is essential; please learn how to fix a puncture and set the saddle height properly for your size.

Water skills - There will be water safety people at hand when you’re on the water, but that is no substitute for your own personal safety. It is compulsory for all competitors to wear buoyancy aids and wet suits.

Hydration and Food - The basic principal is that teams should be fully self sufficient for the duration of the race and responsible for managing their own food and drink requirements, so you will need to bring all your own food and fluids for duration of the race.

The key to maintaining your body throughout the race is understanding how much food and fluids you will need. Everyone needs different amounts of body fuel intake with most people getting it wrong through poor hydration; this should occur before, during and after exercise with a constant cycle of eating and drinking.

Make sure you carry enough food and drink and pre-pack plenty for your transition boxes. Remember you know your body best so pack food and energy fluid you like.

If you need further information and skills training then contact BlueSky Experiences.