The Amazing Marlborough Race Multi-Cache

This cache has been archived.

emmett: As noted earlier, I'm shutting down my caches and this officially becomes the first to get the ax. I gather the watchers are all people who have completed the cache. If you are interested in a new version of this should I publish one on another site some day, just send me an email when you get a chance, if you have not done so already.

Also, there is a different Amazing Marlboro Race that will be run by the Marlboro Lions Club on Sunday, May 31st, starting at noon. This will be much like the TV show and will not require a GPS. It is being held as a fundraiser to support Lions Club charities. The cost is $20 per person and includes a post race meal. Kids under 12 are free. Should be a fun day and for a good cause. Sign ups are limited. If interested, send me an email and I'll get you signed up.

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Hidden : 6/10/2006
Difficulty:
2.5 out of 5
Terrain:
3 out of 5

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:


Introduction:

The Amazing Marlborough Race (AMR) has been so named because it is modeled after TV's Amazing Race and begins in Marlborough. It has been designed to allow two individuals or groups to race against each other, but it can also be completed solo for those who so desire. The idea is not to race by running, rather to move along quickly to the finish line by virtue of effective "geo-skills."

The race begins at one of Marlborough's high points and concludes at a very nice location by an active stream. Along the way, you'll be treated to some scenic spots and possibly an historic location, all while your brain is exercised and your navigational skills are tested. The race has a bit of something for everyone and should make for an enjoyable time.

General information:

Each stage will provide you either with coordinates for the next leg of the race or with instructions you must complete first before you can locate the next leg.

When hunting for each stage, use your GPS reading to get you close, but make sure you use the printed instructions to refine your search to the correct spot.

The race is designed to separate competing teams at the start, but it is possible that you will meet up at subsequent stage(s). You are welcome to use stealth and deception to prevent a competing team from discovering what you have found, but all containers and micros must be replaced exactly as you found them.

If you fall behind, there are stumbling blocks even near the end that could trip up your opponent and allow you to catch up. Just like its TV counterpart, having a lead even at one of the later stages of this Amazing Race is no guarantee of finishing first.

Also, keep in mind that a Fast Forward is available at a later stage in the race. This option could potentially allow you to finish the race faster. Be aware, that the Fast Forward requires careful observation and recall of certain information you will have had access to earlier.


Start Instructions:

By way of general information, you should have a pen with you during the race. Also, keep in mind, other than Stage 1A which is just barely into the woods and Stage 1B which is a little further in, there is no need to bushwhack at any subsequent stage.

The posted coordinates are for the parking where this race will begin:

N 42 19.763, W 71 33.524

Two containers have been placed within a half-mile of the parking lot. Both containers provide the same instructions for finding the next leg of the race. Travel time to each will be the same and both have been hidden in exactly the same manner. If you are racing with another person or group, one of you will head for Stage 1A and the other will head for Stage 1B. Flip a coin to determine who goes where.

Stage 1A is located at: N 42 19.643, W 71 33.645
Stage 1B is located at: N 42 19.638, W 71 33.667

You will initially be searching for a push pin on a tree that marks each location. Both pins should be a little above eye level. To help you narrow your search, there should be a sizeable branch resting up against or near each tree. Once you find the spot, search for a small, 4” x 7” container very well hidden under a rock at the base if each tree.

Once you have found a container, move on to Stage 2. Everything you need to complete the race from there will be provided to you at subsequent stages along the way.

Before you leave please make sure the containers are well hidden to prevent future muggle abuse - with leaves on top of the container. a rock on top of the leaves, then more leaves on top of the rock.

Setting up a Race:

You will certainly enjoy the Amazing Marlborough Race more if you compete with another group or individual. To set up a race, put this cache page on your watch list and post a note below indicating that you would like to race with someone else and when you would be available to do so. After that, interested people can email each other to set up a start time.

Keep in mind that the race has been set up for hikers but biking is an option at some stages. Since biking will produce faster completion times, those planning to use bikes should compete against others also using bikes, or start the race 30 minutes after anyone on foot.

How long will it take?

After several racers posted completion times in excess of three hours, the instructions at each step of the race were made more specific to reduce find time for all stages. Where math is required, a failsafe has been added so you can double check your calculations. As a result, I estimate the typical time to complete all stages of the race for individuals who are hiking will now be about three hours. It certainly could be finished faster.

Those who are able to take advantage of a "Fast Forward" option will cut some time off the three hour estimate and those who race with a partner can finish even faster since your travel time in the car can be more productive and your search time will be less with the help of extra eyes. Biking could save an additional half hour or so. As a result, I estimate the optimal time for a duo or group using bikes could be about two-and-a-half hours.

The Amazing Race Series:

Amazing Deering Race (ADR):
Fastest finish to date - 1:25 (g-o-cashers) (visit link)

Amazing Marlborough Race (AMR):
Fastest finish to date - 2:36 (Hermit Crabs)

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