What is a rogaine style adventure race?
This format is based on the concept of Rogaining, which requires strategy as well as speed and smarts to complete the course. Check points will each be assigned a point value. When team are given the maps, they will be informed of each checkpoint’s value in addition to its location. Racers are permitted to locate checkpoints in any order. Each discipline and race section will have a minimum number of checkpoints the teams are required to locate to remain qualified in the race. Any checkpoints located beyond the minimum number are bonus. The team with the sum of the highest point values at the end of the 6 or 12 hours is the winner. In the case of a tie, the team who obtained the hghest point value in the shortest period of time is the winner. Teams must return to the start/ finish within the 6 or 12 hour time allocation. For every minute past this time cutoff, teams will be deducted point values from their overall point values obtained. Teams will be informed of the value of this point deduction prior to race start at the captain’s meeting. This means be sure to synch your watch to ours at the start! Because ours is the one that counts.
Why rogaine style?
Racing in this format increases the liklihood that all teams will finish at the same time. So the fastest and the slowest teams are able to celebrate their achievements together rather than hours apart. No one comes in after the finish line has been taken down with this approach (hopefully!). It also adds even more strategy to adventure racing as teams have to choose which points are worth the time and effort and which are worth abandoning given the time, terrain, energy level of the team, and navigation challenges. And, well, we just think it’s fun and want to spread the love.
When should I be there?
Race check-in will be Friday evening from 7 pm to 8 pm – late enough for most of you to get here after work (ok, so you may have to leave a little early in Portland). There will be a late check-in on Saturday morning from 5:30-6:00 am for those of you who couldn’t leave work early or may be coming from Seattle.
What’s the story with the AR 101 Workshop?
Cathy Sassin, world champion adventure racer, will be back for a pre-race AR workshop to share some words of wisdom. She will share information on proper nutrition, hydration, navigation tactics, racing strategies and answer any questions you may have. Be sure to make time to join us.
What do I need to know for the paddling leg?
You are responsible for providing your own boats. All racers must stay together for the entire race, including the during the paddle. You will need boats for a flat water paddle. Canoes or kayaks will be great. The race start/ finish will be at the boat launch at Crane Prairie, so you will simply need to get your boat to the launch point along with the rest of your gear on Saturday morning. If paddling is not your thing, you are not required to do the paddle leg…you simply will not obtain the points that are available at the checkpoints on that leg of the race. And you’ll miss out on some amazing scenery.
What’s the difference between the 6 hour and the 12 hour race?
The amount of time you are out having fun in the woods! Both races start at the same time. The 12 hour racers will have a few more mandatory points than the 6 hour racers in each section. But they also have more time to find all the points that are out there than the 6 hour racers. The 6 hour racers get to finish before it gets hot! Because it is rogaine style, you will choose which points you want to find depending on your navigation skills, speed, fitness and drive for point hoarding!
