Hello All!

 

Here is a note from Guy Gaskill, the coordinater of WAR.  It has more info on distance, start time/location, etc.

 

Read up!

 

Start time will be at 10:00am Sunday April 19th.  Be there early (at least by 9:00am) to get the release forms signed and all your gear lined up.

 

Remember, the teammates must stay together!!  This is not a "you do the run, I do the bike..." event!!!  And must have at least 2 teammates.  More is okay.

 

Please send me or Guy an email for an approximate headcount.....having enough maps will be nice.....!!  And having enough of the "mystery" items is also handy!  If there is a remote possibility you might be there, please let us know ASAP!!

 

Looking for a teammate?  Maybe we can help!  Let me or Guy know if you want to come but are needing a partner!

 

WILSON ADVENTURE RACE:

Sprint adventure races are designed to take 2-4 hours to complete and are the perfect introduction into the world of Adventure Racing.   Teams of two or more have the chance to compete in trail running, mountain biking, kayaking, and an occasional special challenge.   The goal is for you to have a great time and loads of fun!
The distances for a typical Sprint Race vary according to the geography and terrain of each event.   Each race usually includes a 1-2 mile water leg, a 7-10 mile mountain bike course, and a 3-5 mile trail run. The combined distances will be approximately 10-17 miles.   To participate all you need is a mountain bike and helmet, a good solid pair of running shoes, and a willingness to try something new and unforgettable!
Additionally, several special (mystery) events will be included along the race course.  These are designed to add an element of fun while challenging your team, both physically and mentally.  These special tests require no additional gear on your part and no special training!

"Wilson State Park is located on the southeastern edge of Wilson Lake, in the heart of the Smoky Hills approximately 25 miles east of Russell, and is one of Kansas' premier recreation hotspots, considered by many to be the most beautiful in the state.
The Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail provides a challenging 15-mile excursion through the Hell Creek area over hills and through valleys rarely seen by the visiting public. This trail is known locally as the 'Rollercoaster' for its grinding climbs and swooping descents."             ( kansascyclist.com review )

"Well, this trail before expansion had over 2000 feet of climbing per 6 mile lap. That should tell you something about the trail. And now its twice as long!!! Its just technical enough to make things interesting, and the climbs will get you in shape for about anything. They don't call it the rollarcoaster for nothing. You climb for 2 or 3 minutes, then descend for 30 seconds or so. A tough trail. But sooooo much fun. There is just something special about this trail. It's just fun to ride.

To get to the Switchgrass parking lot:      From Interstate 70, turn north on 232 towards Lucas KS; turn into Wilson State Park and go west about 2 miles, take a right into the Hell Creek Area Park.  At the top of the hill is a Park entrance, with a day fee required.  Follow the road and signs, and take the next 2 lefts to get to the Switchgrass parking area / bathroom.  Start time will be around 10:00am with check in at 9:00am.

This year we are going to do a easy and a hard Mountain biking section.  The easy course will have 8 miles of really fun biking trails, with a 4 mile run, and 2 miles of kayaking.  The hard will have 11.5 miles of biking, with the same 4 miles of running and 2 miles of kayaking.  I would like to do more kayaking, but we will not have enough boats for everyone, so we will have to share.  If you have your own kayak / canoe, or access to one, please bring it.  The race will take around 3 - 5 hours.  Last year the winning time was just over 1 1/2 hours, but this did not include the kayaking, and was a shorter race.

The rules are simple:  Your must hit all of the checks, and stay within 100 yards of your partner / partners.  You must have at least 2 in your team, and be courteous to other racers.  It is definitely okay to help other teams.

Required gear is:  Mt. bike, helmet, and around 2L of water.  Gloves would be a good idea, and bike tools with a air pump and spare tube.  Some other recommended equipment would be something to write with, cell phone, small first aid kit, sunscreen, knife, power bars, water proof bag, rain jacket, and a way to carry these items + a few you get on the route. (Hint)

No fees to enter race, but there are no points towards other races for winning this one.  This race is designed for fun!!!  So start getting ready for WAR...............   There is no pre-registration, but it would really be nice to have an idea of numbers, so please send me an e-mail if you are planning on coming.

Hope to see you there!    APRIL 19, 2009  Guy Gaskill coordinator  WAR

guy@...