If your new years resolution was to test your fitness and put your body through at least one of Britain’s most challenging adventure racing events this year, then read on to see how and where you can join Britain’s fittest in the top 10 team adventure races for 2010. Do whatever you have to do to be prepared, whether it’s a speciality sailing course or something more drastic like an advanced powerboat course – do whatever it takes to be ahead of the rest!
WARNING: Persons who lack conditioning and optimum fitness might experience mild cases of fatigue and aching muscles from simply reading the rest of this article.
Let’s get straight into it. Here is the list of Britain’s Top 10 Adventure Races in 2010:
1. HELLY HANSEN ADVENTURE CHALLENGE: December annually
This race which usually takes place on Military training grounds will have you overcoming numerous obstacles as you run, mountain bike and kayak through tough military conditions. Your adventure racing team will be made up of three people and races last between 3 and five hours. There is no navigation needed in this race which makes it perfect for developing team dynamic early in the racing season. If you did not take part in this one last month then you will need to wait until December later this year. Be prepared!
Where: Hawley, Surrey
Details: www.trailplus.com/helly_hansen.cfm
2. COAST TO COAST, NEW ZEALAND: February 12 – 13 2010
Okay, so this isn’t necessarily a local race, however it has proven especially popular amongst plenty a British Adventure racing team. Pack your adventure racing equipment and book those tickets down under. Competitors undertake the grueling adventure of running, cycling and kayaking 160 miles in the space of 2 days. This is definitely one of the most beautiful races in the world and defiantly worth a shot this year if you can get ready in time.
Where: New Zealand
Details: www.coasttocoast.co.nz
3. QUESTARS: March – September 2010
Adventure racing in the UK is becoming extremely popular which is why Questars races were created. These races which take place all over the UK over either one or two days, require racers to work out there own route from start to finish. Racers can either enter as an individual team or in a team of up to four people. Racers decide when they wish to cycle or when they wish to run. It really is a race of planning, planning and more planning. Choosing the correct route and times to run or cycle are key to your result in the race.
Where: All over the UK
Details: www.questars.co.uk
4. OPEN 24: December – July annually
This 24 hour non-stop adventure race in the North of England will have you running, cycling and kayaking from start to finish. The race is the ultimate test of fitness and stamina. It is advised that you simply fly through the course as quickly as you can to avoid your brain from telling you that you can’t do it.
Where: North of England
Details: www.openadventure.com
5. ADVENTURE RACING WORLD SERIES: February – November 2010
Understandably considered to be the Formula One series of adventure racing, this race has contestants in mixed teams of four people navigating from one checkpoint to another. Racers will need to run, swim, cycle, river raft and even ride horses to ensure that they complete the races. These races can last for up to 6 days so it really does putt a lot of strain on the body.
Where: Sweden, Poland, Ecuador, Spain, Brazil and Australia
Details: www.arworldseries.com
6. THREE PEAKS YACHT RACE: June 19 2010
You’ll need to complete a few sailing lessons before you take on this race. One of the most grueling courses on the adventure race calendar, you will need to sail the entire length of the UK’s west coast starting off at Barmouth in Wales. Much more than a simple yacht race, you will be required to stop off and climb the highest peaks in Wales, England and finally Scotland. Disciplines required: Sailing, running, cycling and rowing. This is a race for the ultimate all round adventure racing team. If you are currently unable to sail and wish to take part in this race then arrange a beginner sailing course then a fast track yachtmaster course and enter ASAP!
Where: Starts in Barmouth, Wales
Details: www.threepeaksyachtrace.co.uk
7. RAT RACE: June – September 2010
A sort of UK version of the well known TV series The Amazing Race, this race takes place within bustling cities such as Bristol, London and Sheffield. Prepare yourself for tasks which include mountain biking, canoeing, abseiling down buildings and eating chilli pizzas. Your navigational skills will be tested as well as some endurance. This is definitely one of the more entertaining adventure races on the calendar this year so be sure to check it out. Teams can be made up of either two or three people.
Where: Edinburgh to London
Details: www.ratraceadventure.com
8. LONDON TO PARIS BIKE RIDE: June 24 – 27 2010
Perhaps not your typical adventure race, but this amazing event enables you to experience cycling in a peloton for 350 miles over three days. Organizers of the race take care of road closures, motorbike outriders and 100% logistic support to ensure that all you have to do is focus on your cycling. There will be 5 categories in this year’s race into which you will be allocated depending on your fitness level and ability. Groups stay together and are each led by an experienced team captain. Cycling lovers need to make sure that they do not miss out on this awesome opportunity.
Where: London to Paris
Details: www.londres-paris.com
9. INOV8 IROC: May 28 – 31 2010
A cracking combination of running, mountain biking and night orienteering requires racers to accumulate points in each discipline to continue racing. One can take part in a team or as an individual. This is an event for the whole family so there’s no need to leave the wife and kids at home. They will be kept entertained whilst you race from one checkpoint to the next. Add this one to your adventure race calendar.
Where: venue to be confirmed
Details: www.iroc-race.com
10: COAST RAID SERIES
This series is for those of you who love the beautiful South West region of our country. The series includes a multitude of races which range from coastal runs to multi-sport adventure days, as well as the ultimate 140 mile non-stop coast to coast race across the country.
Where: Dorset and Devon
Details: www.endurancelife.com
As you can see, there are races to suit every individual or team. If you need to start with your adventure racing training, make sure you get going ASAP so as not to miss out on any of the above races. The UK proves once again that we won’t allow these extreme weather conditions to keep as indoors all year. Let’s get out there and enjoy the best of UK Adventure racing.
On your marks, get set, GO!