Operation WHITE HORSE

Operation WHITE HORSE

April 12, 2025 | White Mountain Wilderness, New Mexico, USA

Distance: 8 / 17 / 23 +/- miles

Weight: 20 lbs dry

Elevation: 1,601 / 3,396 / 5,866 +/- elevation gain

Brief Start Time: Saturday, April 12, 2025, 2025 at 0730 hrs

Event Start Time: Saturday, April 12, 2025, 2025 at 0800 hrs

Start Location: Argentina Canyon Trailhead, NM

Event Finish Time: Saturday, April 12, 2025, 2025 at 1800 hrs

Finish Location: Argentina Canyon Trailhead, NM

Situation

Operation WHITE HORSE takes place in the magical White Mountain Wilderness of New Mexico. This pristine area is known for its rugged terrain, lush forests, and stunning mountain vistas, offering a perfect backdrop for a challenging adventure. The wilderness is home to diverse wildlife and offers trails that wind through picturesque landscapes and serene valleys. Candidates can choose from three distances: 8, 17, or 23 miles, each providing a unique and rewarding experience in this breathtaking natural wonder.

Mission

Operation WHITE HORSE MINI. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 8 +/- mile route in under 4 hours to pass and under 2.5 hours to earn the GBF Operation WHITE HORSE MINI Dog Tag.

Operation WHITE HORSE. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 17 +/- mile route in under 7 hours to pass and under 5.5 hours to earn the GBF Operation WHITE HORSE Dog Tag.

Operation WHITE HORSE MAX. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 23 +/- mile route in under 8 hours to pass and under 7 hours to earn the GBF Operation WHITE HORSE MAX Dog Tag. The winner will earn the elite Gold Dog Tag.

Execution

Candidates will meet at the Argentina Canyon Trailhead. At 0730 hours, GBF Staff will give an event brief before answering any questions and releasing the candidates to begin the route at 0800 hours.

Service Support

Mapping. GBF events use the AllTrails app for navigation. To download the route from AllTrails, you will need to sign up for a membership. GBF suggests candidates have a paper map, compass, and GPS too.

Route. Ensure you download the map for offline use. Cell service is not guaranteed.

The route for Operation WHITE HORSE MINI is here.

The route for Operation WHITE HORSE is here.

The route for Operation WHITE HORSE MAX is here.

Weight. Candidates must carry a minimum of 20 lbs dry (i.e. without food and water) in a backpack. Weight vests or sandbags are not permitted.

Equipment

Mandatory Equipment

• Backpack (waterproof inner-bags)
• Phone (fully charged)
• Phone charger
• LifeStraw
• Head Torch (spare batteries)
• Hydration bladder(s)
• Whistle
• Compass
• Emergency rations (see below)
• Emergency shelter
• Personal First Aid Kit

Strongly Recommended

• Maps (waterproofed)
• GPS
• Blister kit
• Pocket knife
• Chem-light/Cyalume
• Hiking poles
• MRE(s)

Dress. Candidates' dress will be a personal choice.

Checkpoints. There are no checkpoints on this route.

Water. There will be bottled water at the finish point. Candidates should carry enough water to last the route distance plus 3 additional miles, in case they get lost.

Rations. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 energy bars and 0.5 liters of water as emergency rations.

Medical. Every candidate requires a personal medical kit. GBF Staff must be made aware of any medical conditions before starting the event.

Transportation. Transport to and from the event will be at the candidate's arrangement.

Command and Signal. GBF HQ: 941-993-9432

The Fine Print

Numbers. Maximum number of candidates 40. Minimum number of candidates 15.

Refunds. Refunds will be in the form of a GBF voucher to use towards future events. Refunds must be requested 30 days before the event start date.

Event Changes. Slight changes to any event including, but not limited to route changes, brief times, start locations, and other details are under the discretion of GBF Staff.