First Timers
First Timers
1.
Enter the Coast to Coast
We highly recommend that new entrants compete in the Two Day event before tackling the One Day World Championship event.
It is not called the 'Longest Day' for nothing. The time cut-offs are very tight and as a reference you should be able to complete the Two Day race in under 15 1/2 hours.
The Two Day event is the heart and soul of the race and a magic experience - find out what you're in for first up and don't have the disappointment of a being unable to finish the event due to a time restriction.
2.
Sign up for a Kayak Course
The kayak section should be one of the highlights of the race but it needs to be taken seriously. Make sure you choose a kayak you are really stable in and do plenty of time on the river. Everyone has the odd swim now and then but if you are heading off on the kayak leg expecting a swim then you need a more stable boat and some more skill practice. With the right combination the kayak stage will be one of the highlights of the race.
If you want to do the whole event as an individual, or be the team kayaker you’ll need a Grade 2 Kayaking Skills Certificate.
Click here for the certification process and list of instructors.
3.
Find a Team Mate
If you enter a teams section, you can either find your own team mate or use the 'Find a Team Mate' service via our wesbite
4.
Download the Latest Handbook
The Handbook for the 2025 race will be available from November. Everything you need to know is in them.
Make sure you download the handbook specific to your event and check back for any updates just prior to the race.
5.
Start training and enter a few local events
Check the Coast to Coast Facebook
page for latest news. We'll also send out updates in the newsletter.
The Coast to Coast 2025 Training Page
is a great place to find lots of information about the upcoming race.
See the
Team CP
page for training programs specific to the event.
Use our Facebook page
to find training partners or organise trips with other competitors through the course or training sessions closer to home.
6.
Sign up for a guided Mountain Run
All mountain guide operators are required to have the appropriate DoC consents.
Check the Mountain Stage page for details of operators.
7.
Find support crew
If you’re an international competitor, you may be able to find an enthusiastic local to help you.
Team CP offer full logistics for the race, they can arrange everything from flights and accommodation to kayak and bike rental and support crew.
8.
Watch these transition tips by Team CP
Transition 1
RUN TO BIKE
Transition 2
BIKE TO MOUNTAIN RUN
Transition 3
MOUNTAIN RUN TO BIKE
(Longest Day only)
Transition 4
BIKE TO KAYAK
Please note this footage is a few years old and shows 3 people helping the athlete into the kayak, the current rule is that only 2 people are allowed to help - the 2 official support crew with wristbands
Transition 5
KAYAK TO FINAL BIKE
