1. Have a look at the area on google earth once you receive the start point, check the difficult parts to plan your route
2. Divide putting the coordinates between team members then share it wirelessly (if you GPS allows that)
3. Use all available resources, like catch roads, sabkhas, etc. to save time.
4. If you have a passengers with you, involve them, they can be of valuable help.
5. During offroading, the fastest route doesn't have to be the shortest
6. Enjoy what you are doing
Disclaimer: the above are just suggestions, use them only if you find then useful, the organisers take no responsibility for them