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The terms Adventure Racing
and Multi-Sport Racing are often confused with one other. Multi-sport
racing is probably exemplified by the sport of triathlon, a set
combination of swimming, cycling and running where, although courses are
of varying distances, the individual disciplines always follow the same
set order. Further, although Multi-Sport Racing offers participants the
opportunity to enter as a team, it is primarily an individual sport; and
a race, where fitness, endurance and athletic skill are paramount.
On the other hand, Adventure Racing is a team sport, loosely based on
the sport of orienteering (using a map and compass to navigate
unfamiliar terrain). Whilst an Adventure Race may include similar
disciplines as a triathlon (cycling, running and swimming) races are
usually held in bushland rather than the urban areas, and have a fluid
rather than a set course. The aim of an Adventure Race is to navigate
around a course, collecting as many checkpoints as possible.
Navigational ability and strategic thinking are equally as important as
athletic ability and endurance. The ability to work together in a team
is paramount…as is a sense of humour!
Adventure Races range from 2 hours to 10 days or more, and usually
comprise cross-country running, mountain biking and kayaking. The multi
day events add even more activities, such as abseiling, horse riding and
even paragliding. Some races even include challenges like solving a
Sudoku puzzle, navigating a maze, or being dunked in a tub of water.
Many consider the challenges to be the best part of Adventure Racing. |