The Int. GS Trophy 2020 has begun.
The long wait was finally over for the Int. GS Trophy competitors from more than 40 countries, who were cheered away from the Lakes Lodge Okataina base camp on their BMW F 850 GS bikes to begin the seventh edition of this prestigious amateur competition that is being followed with interest across the globe by adventure riding fans.
The grand departure.
The grand departure.
As is GS Trophy tradition, it was an early start for all competitors, with tents packed away, trucks loaded with kit, and breakfast wolfed down before rushing to their bikes for the beginning of this unforgettable adventure. Each team — accompanied by a journalist and marshal — left the camp and headed for the Urewera National Park deep in heavily forested Maori country, en route to the art-deco coastal town of Napier.
Up for a challenge or two?
Up for a challenge or two?
Included in the 360 km opening day was 160 kilometres of memorable off-road riding, as well as two special stages. The first was a team river crossing timed trials challenge that demanded balance, bike control and speed in equal measures, while the second special – the ‘Sena Challenge’ – was a blindfolded individual precision trial against the clock, with the nominated team rider relying on voice guidance from the other team-mates via their Sena communication devices.
Early leaders.
Early leaders.
Sun, surf and blue skies greeted the riders on arrival at Napier Beach late in the afternoon but the question on everybody’s lips was who would be the leading team after the first day of competition? They didn’t have to wait too long for the answer, as the post-dinner points presentation revealed Team South Korea as the early leaders, with Italy and USA in hot pursuit.
At the end of day one, new friendships were already taking shape amid the spirit of friendly competition. For all the competitors, day two can’t come soon enough!
