…how interested are you in encouraging women to participate in this event? (Yes, I think the women's only events like Bond this weekend are awesome; I'll be there, looking forward to it!). I think it would be a shame if others (like Sparkplug) who are interested in trying out some enduros are discouraged by this format. There were only two women at the Beast, correct? (I would have liked to, but I was coaching that weekend).
gender is irrelevant. it will be fun for anyone who likes ripping flank laps, including a lot of ladies i know. a modicum of skill is required if you don't know the trails that well, and good fitness will help, but there's nothing crazy in the course. our trails are physical and the climbing is tough.
trails that will not be included: pura vida (it needs a break), diary of a madman (gnarly and overgrown!), jaws (gnarly, except during perfect conditions like RIGHT NOW!), green monster (dangerous to race), rockwork orange (at builder's request). everything else is fair game.
the beast was gnarly and never intended for mass consumption, the women weren't the only ones scared.
what is discouraging about this format? if you have the fitness to endure 4 flank climbs and the skills and trail knowledge to enjoy the variety of flank descents then you're golden.