Operation RUSHMORE MAX

Operation RUSHMORE MAX

Distance: 22 +/- miles

Event Start Time: Saturday 23rd September 2023 at 0700hrs

Start Location: Horse Thief Lake Parking, SD

Event Finish Time: Saturday 23rd September 2023 at 2000hrs

Finish Location: Horse Thief Lake Parking, SD

Situation

Operation RUSHMORE MAX takes you on a 22 +/- route near the Mount Rushmore National Memorial. This is the most challenging route of the day and will take you to the summit of Black Elk Peak (7,241ft) in the first 7 miles.

There are two easier routes the same day as this event: Operation RUSHMORE MINI, and Operation RUSHMORE.

Mission

Candidates must complete the 22 +/- mile route in under 10 hours to pass and under 8 hours to earn the GBF Operation RUSHMORE MAX Dog Tag.

Execution

Candidates will meet at the Horse Thief Lake Parking parking area. After 0700hrs, GBF Staff will give an event brief before checking candidates' kits. Candidates are advised to carry paper maps (waterproofed), in addition to their smartphone, for navigation. Once GBF Staff are happy with the candidate's kit, they will be released to begin the route.

Candidates finishing in under 8 hours will receive the highly sought-after 'GBF Operation RUSHMORE MAX’ dog tags. The first candidate to complete the course will receive a GBF Gold Dog Tag.

Service Support

- Mapping. You can navigate this route easily from the AllTrails app on your Smartphone. GBF suggests candidates have a paper map, compass, and GPS too. To download the route from AllTrails, you will need to sign up for a membership.

- Route. Operation RUSHMORE MAX will be completed clockwise and includes the dog-leg up Black Elk Peak (7,241 ft). There is also one water replen’ point at roughly 10 miles. There are also public restrooms near this location.

- Dress. Candidates' dress will be a personal choice but they are reminded this is a rural event with no vehicle support. Wet weather and cold weather gear is mandatory in case of inclement weather conditions.

- Equipment.

This list is mandatory. You will NOT be allowed to start if an item is missing. (Items linked are for guidance only)

• Backpack (waterproof inner-bags)
• Phone
• Phone charger & cable
• Head Torch (spare batteries)
• Hydration bladder(s)
• Whistle
• Compass
• Pocket knife
• Emergency rations (see below)
• Chem-light/cyalume
• Emergency shelter
• Personal First Aid Kit

This list is strongly recommended:

• Maps (waterproofed)
• GPS
• Blister kit
• MRE(s)
• Cold weather hat
• Cold weather jacket

- Replen. There is a water replen’ point at roughly 10 miles, at Little Devil's Tower Trailhead. There may be streams with the possibility to filter water.

- Rations. Candidates must have a minimum of 3 x energy bars as emergency rations. It is strongly advised the candidates take extra food with them.

- Water. Candidates should carry enough water to last 15 +/- miles in case they get lost. There will also be water at the end. Candidates must start the event with a minimum of 4 litres of water or they will not be allowed to start.

- Medical. A personal medical kit is required by every candidate. GBF Staff must be made aware of any medical conditions prior to starting the event. If any GBF staff deems a candidate is medically unfit to continue, they may be withdrawn from the event for their own safety.

- Transport. Transport to and from the event will be at candidates own arrangement.

Command and Signal

GBF HQ - 9419939432

Weight - Candidate’s backpacks must weigh a minimum of 20 lbs. This does not  include all the mandatory gear and water and food.

Numbers - Maximum number of candidates 40. Minimum number of candidates 10.

Cost - $120 until end of 2022

($140 from 1st January 2023)

Refunds - Refunds will be in the form of a GBF voucher for future events. Refunds within 30 days of an event will not be possible.