Adventure Racing FAQs
Is Adventure Racing (AR) really difficult?
If you’re in pretty good shape and are competent running/trekking, riding a mountain bike, can paddle (note: not all events have paddling) and know how to use a trail map — then you’re ready to give AR a try!
Each event has many new folks doing their first race. Give it a try and you’ll likely be hooked.
Do we need strong navigational skills?
Basically, if you can get around a park using a trail map then you’ll do just fine. If it makes you feel better, you’re welcome to bring/use a GPS device… or even try to follow a team in front of you (as long as they’re going in the right direction)!
Want to really improve your navigation skills? Contact our friends at the California Adventure Racing Association to find out when the next free clinic is taking place.
Do we need to be strong paddlers?
Our kayak (or canoe) distances for our sprint events are usually very short and on pretty tame lakes or reservoirs. Generally, you’re paddling for an hour or less. That said, conditions can change rapidly so it is best to have the basic skills so you’re prepared.
Not all of our events include kayaking. However, for the events that do include kayaking, it is usually pretty basic. Besides complimentary clinics offered by the California Adventure Racing Association, our partner Aquan Sports in San Carlos has classes that will get you race-ready in just a few hours.
Do I need a boat or a mountain bike?
You’ll need a bike for all of our races. Some of our races include paddling and for those events you will need a boat as well. However, if you do not have your own you can easily rent.
For a rental boat, you can add it to your order when you register. We have a great deal Aquan Sports that includes a tandem sit-on-top kayak, paddles, and PFDs — all delivered right to the event for just $30.
If you need a mountain bike, you should visit your local MTB shop and get fitted with a good demo bike. You will not need anything too expensive or heavy-duty. Go with a lightweight option as you’ll mostly be riding fire-roads and some singletrack. Front suspension or full-suspension is advised.
Can you help me find a teammate?
Yes, we can help! First, you should try to connect with other new racers on the California Adventure Racing Association website as there are many new and first-time racers mixed in with experienced folks looking to help newbies. They even have a first-time racer section.
When searching for a teammate, please make sure you detail your skill level and what your goals are so you can be provided with the best potential match options.
Can you send us the course route in advance?
Adventure Racing puts an emphasis on the “adventure”. In other words, we don’t tell you in advance all the details of the course as that would spoil the fun, surprise, and adventure!
Why are some distances listed as approximations?
Because we have designed the courses to have “optional” or “bonus” checkpoints (CPs) for more experienced teams, we don’t know exactly how far your tean will actually travel during the event. Plus, there are often many different ways to get to the same point via route choices. Sometimes the short-cuts may involve more difficult terrain, but could save you a few miles in distance. On top of all that, you may goof up and make a few wrong-turns during the event.
