I also did the supposed 30km route but ended up doing 36.9km as a result of the chaos on the wrong route. After being turned around from good starting position the front riders ended up being the back riders and had to now fight our way past the new "leaders". Lots of falls on the turn around as the guys were now riding into each other. How the hell can the guy on the bike get the route so screwed up. If he doesn't know the route don't let him ride the lead motorbike. The bottle neck in the forest was absolutely ridiculous, resulting in lots of cheating. This was definitely NOT a route for complete beginners or anyone with no biking skills. This added to the initial chaos as the back markers who were nervous of the single tracks, were on and off their bikes. There was a lack of literate marshalls at important points eg. the 30/60km split. These guys were obviously just paid to stand a wave a flag. Some 60k riders ended up on 30k route. I also cannot remember seeing a paramedic anywhere along the route. This is unacceptable. A great route , but the chaos in the beginning spoilt the race. FPC better plannin for the next race please.
