3 Days of Belgium - Day 1 preview

What is the balance between time spent in the terrain and time spent behind the computer when planning your courses?

Good course setting is time-consuming, as every course setter knows. But you still spend somewhat more time behind the computer than out in the terrain. I think the ratio for me is approximately 30% in the terrain and 70% behind the computer. (Of course, this is assuming you don’t have to redraw the map yourself.)

If you could give the participants one tip before the start, what would it be?

On this map, you need to be able to adapt well to the different types of terrain. Very fast sections are alternated with more technical parts where good map contact is essential. Maintaining a high speed in these technical areas can be dangerous.

Where is there a risk of losing time?

On the longer legs, where you can drift off course if you lose concentration and end up in a different area. You also need to stay very alert in the more densely vegetated areas with subtle terrain, so make sure you maintain good map contact.

When are you satisfied with your course setting afterwards?

When everything fits together well on the map and there is plenty of variation in the length of the legs, directions, route choices, types of terrain, etc. And, of course, when the participants are mainly positive about the courses and have enjoyed them.

I wish you all the best of luck! Most of all, enjoy the beautiful map and the fantastic terrain.