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Desert Storm, one of the most popular 2 day trail rides of the 90’s has been brought back to life and is to be held October 28-29 2000.
The event will take place between Waiouru and Ohakune in and around the Winstone managed Karioi forest. The forest backs on to the majestic Ruapehu Mountain and is bordered by DOC land and NZ army training grounds.
The national park region is a unique piece of landscape featuring a sandy, rocky base, crystal clear streams, undulating hills and a lunar type landscape in places. There will be a different circuit available each day to ride approximately 60-80 km in length. Access to the Rangipo desert will be dependent upon current negotiations with the NZ Army.
Geographically, the event could not be held in a more perfect place, being almost exactly in the middle of the North Island, and equal distance from the two major cities of Auckland and Wellington.
Event Manager Nick Reader says that he is excited about bringing the Desert Storm event back to life after a 5 year lay off. The Desert Storm venue used to be the army training grounds on the Eastern side of the Desert Road. Apparently OSH had a role in stopping the event around 1995.
An entry form will be available in upcoming magazine issues featuring all details of the event. Accommodation will be available at Waiouru, Ohakune or camping on site near the Karioi forest. Meals will be available.
Most forestry companies close their gates to Motorcycle riders October 1, but Nick has arranged a special one off permit to use the forest past the close off date. This late date means the event is likely to be the final forestry trail ride of the season.
This is one ride not to be missed so mark the date on your calendar now and make a date with a re vamped and revitalised Desert Storm trail ride.
