Tuesday, June 17, 2008

PQ Update: Another Thought On Using GPS

Mike Bitton has updated his Primal Quest Blog over at Checkpoint Zero with some thoughts on the announcement that GPS devices would be allowed at this year's Primal Quest race which gets underway next week.

The use of GPS is traditionally not allowed in the sport of adventure racing, as navigation is one of the key elements of the competition. Often times good navigation is what sets the teams apart, and learning how to use a map and compass are as essential to your skill set as paddling or mountain biking.

Yesterday, Primal Quest management made the decision to allow the GPS devices due to the unusual amount of snow at altitude and the fact that even now, in late June, the snow continues to fall. Mike spoke with PQ CEO Don Mann on the subject and Don gives some very compelling reasons as to why this decision was made. Bottom line, it's a safety issue first and foremost.

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