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D/T grid challenge cache (Hants, UK) Mystery Cache

This cache has been archived.

Boomshanka: When I set this one over four years ago, I wasn't so knowledgeable on D/T ratings for caches and wrote a note in April 2015 that I thought it should be more than a D3 but I don't like changing D/T ratings after publication because it then causes more problems for finders who then have their D/T stats changed. Yes, this should be a D4+ but I won't change it for the reason just mentioned so it's time for this one to go. Many thanks to all finders, I hope you enjoyed the challenge.

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Hidden : 5/8/2014
Difficulty:
5 out of 5
Terrain:
3 out of 5

Size: Size:   micro (micro)

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Geocache Description:

The cache is at the published co-ordinates but this is a challenge cache which means that you need to fulfill the criteria before logging a ‘Found it’.

Some history… In geocaching circles, completing the difficulty/terrain (D/T) grid is also known as ‘The Fizzy Challenge’ based on a cache (GC11E8N) whose CO named it after a cacher called ‘FizzyMagic’. There are also 'half-fizzys' and other variations.

To qualify for this cache, you need to have fully completed all 81 squares of your D/T grid (with at least one cache find per D/T combination). Some straightforward criteria apply:

  • All previous finds of caches count, whatever their type (although you can't 'find' caches that you own).
  • This challenge cache doesn't count as a qualifying find, the grid needs to be completed beforehand.
  • Sometimes, D/T ratings of caches are changed after you have found them. Your D/T grid has to be fully complete at the time you log a ‘Found it’ on this cache. No 'locking in' along the way.

When you log this cache, please either attach a screen print of your completed D/T grid, have your statistics page visible showing the completed D/T grid, or list the 81 caches with dates when you found them.

If you want to know what caches are available to help you fill in your grid then there is a useful mapping function on ‘project-gc’ here: http://project-gc.com/Maps/MapMatrix (you might need to 'authenticate' your Groundspeak account). It's a fun challenge and some folk then go on to complete the grid multiple times!

The cache (a black-painted aluminium micro - so bring your own pen) is placed in a tree to bring back memories of some of the things you might have been through to complete your grid . No climbing equipment was used to place the cache but you need to decide for yourself if you'd prefer to use anything for the find. I have included a three stage hint if you want to narrow the search down a bit .

The D5 rating for this cache is mainly to reflect the challenge of completing the grid beforehand. The T3 rating reflects the access to GZ and the climb to reach the cache (being T3, it's not a wing and a prayer job up in the canopy ). Only you know your abilities and risk propensity, and only you can decide whether, when or how you want to attempt it – I accept no responsibility for anything that might adversely happen to anyone attempting to find this cache.

Waypoint averaging has been used to set the co-ordinates but there is obviously heavy tree cover at GZ which may affect the accuracy. The host tree is obvious when you’re there… it’s the one that had a battle with an oak a few years ago (see photo). Access to GZ may well be tricky in the summer (bracken/brambles) and/or muddy at any time of year.

Parking co-ordinates are given on Flexford Road (there are one or two pull-in spaces for a car). Alternative parking is possible on the nearby housing estate where you can then walk through on the footpaths (if you have a satnav, SO53 4JQ will get you to the end of Morgan le Fay Drive).

Enjoy

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Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Hc . . . . . Hc n ovg zber . . . . . . Abg orlbaq unys jnl

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)