Nopesport

On Saturday September 16th, 2006 London will be turned into an urban playground for the Merrell City Chase as teams of two race throughout the city in a unique and memorable urban adventure. The City Chase tests mind, body and spirit through a variety of physical, mental and humorous challenges with the winning team getting the opportunity to represent England in The 2006 City Chase World Championship this October in Chicago.

Each team is issued with a clue sheet with cryptic descriptions of challenges and locations and teams must plan their own route through the city, in search of the various “Chase Point” locations. Teams must be resourceful - knowing when to use their mobile phone to seek help from family and friends; knowing how to read a map as they plan their strategy; knowing when to catch a bus or the tube - resting their muscles; and knowing how to use their charm to entice support from other teams and even strangers! Teams receive a stamp for each “Chase Point” they complete, and the first team to cross the Finish Line with ten stamps is the winner.

The event has recently announced a partnership with Sparks, an organization that supports kids stay active. Participants will be raising money by selling Sparks caps as one of their Chase Points challenges. As a loyal Sparks Patron, Olympic Gold Medal winning rower Tim Foster will officially start the race. Tim understands the importance of supporting his community and is thrilled to see The City Chase come to England and support Sparks.

A number of orienteers will be taking part including Ben Roberts and Clive Parry, competing as Team Nopesport, and our recent graffiti competition winners Pete Huzan and Paul Nixon. While Ben and Clive may have a background of elite orienteering they have only recently become resident in the city so it will be interesting to see how much an advantage local knowledge is.

Participant entries are flowing in and teams will be preparing for their big day! If you want to join them click here for more details. Registration opens at Russell Square at 8:30 am on Saturday September 16th, followed by opening ceremonies at 9:30 am and with the official start at 10:00 am. The winning team should cross the Finish Line at Russell Square around 1:00pm.