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GODZONE Competitor Liaison Keren McSkimming is an important part of the team and a consummate professional with a heart of gold. Keren has been looking after GZ competitors since Chapter 5, that was held in Tasman in 2016.

What are some common questions from teams entering GZ Chapter 12 now?
They want to check when the full entry fee is payable and what their deposit amount is right now. Most have done their homework, as all that information is online, but it’s sometimes good to chat it through. Teams can send me an email for a quick reply.

How does the Early Bird Discount work?
I encourage teams to consider entering now to take advantage of the Early Bird Entry Discount. This discount requires a deposit to be paid on entry and the remainder to be paid by 31 May. It’s a good discount, and it can help teams manage their race budgets. There is also a payment plan that teams can opt to use to spread payments out through the year.

Does a team have to be complete to enter GZ now?
No, they don’t have to fill out everything now. All thats required is one person to enter their full name and pay the deposit. The team administrator or captain can add further details later, and teams can change their information, including team members, up until 8 weeks before the race starts.

How do you assist teams in the lead-up to the race?
Questions always require answers with common ones around gear: will my 20-year PDF be acceptable? What is the most appropriate sharkskin to purchase? Is our packraft suitable or can my bike helmet be used as a kayak helmet? I always check with the race director before answering gear questions, but the GZ gear list is extensive and well thought out.

What do International teams need as they plan their trip to GODZONE?
I help international teams with everything from accommodation and transport links to the host location to suggestions on local places that can ease their trip. I’m not their travel agent, so I don’t book things; rather, I help them connect the dots to ease decision-making. Often, they want to know how to get from their accommodation to the start line where they can leave valuables.

How can teams find a teammate?
This has been a common request in the past, and at one stage, I matched so many teammates that I was concerned if they would all get along. That’s when we created the online team finder, which we jokingly referred to as Tinder for adventure racers. It’s an excellent tool for teams looking for a fourth or female racer if one of their members becomes unavailable.

If you could pick one Chapter as a favourite what would it be?
It’s hard to pick an absolute favourite, but Chapter 5, which started and finished in Kaiteriteri, was an absolute highlight. It was epic and so beautiful up there. Going to Rabbit Island and seeing the teams roll in off the surf was amazing.

What do you look forward to the most at GODZONE?
As the teams head for the start line, I check that everything at my end is done, breathe a sigh of relief and then go and see them off. I personally enjoy heading out to TA1 to see them all race through the first transition which is generally the only time I get out on course. Then it’s a long wait until greeting them at the finish line with pies and beers in hand. Some competitors have been known to get two pies!