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Post by beckyl on Jan 22, 2012 7:27:58 GMT -5
To any adventure racers out there, I'd like to recommend a race that is coming up on Feb. 11. It's called the Winter Challenge in Columbia, SC and I know a number of local mtn bikers who have done it either on a team or solo. It consists of a 7 mile trail run, 6 mile paddle and 10 mile mtn bike. I did it on a team a few years ago and it is a blast. Yetichick and I are both competing solo this year and I've heard rumblings that there are some folks looking for a team so if there is any interest "post up" and we will have a cohort there. We also have a spare kayak (not fancy but it floats) if there are any takers. winterchallenge.eventbrite.com/
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Post by OopsFellDown on Jan 22, 2012 15:40:55 GMT -5
I did this race a few years ago... Cool event, and quite challenging. A few things I learned the hard way: The run is first, and we had to go through some ankle deep puddles (no avoiding this). It was cold that day (20's) and I was miserable in the kayak with wet cold feet. It would have been well worth it to have taken the time to put dry shoes/socks on before getting in the kayak. If I ever do this again, I will make sure I have this option. Regarding the kayak, I borrowed a 10 ft. long recreational kayak from a friend. Not good. Most of the racers had 16 ft + long skinny kayaks with rudders, and they were flying while working about half as hard as I was. I really struggled to maneuver my kayak through the course (3 laps of a large pond with trees in high winds), and my arms were shot when I was done. There was a guy there renting the good kayaks, and I wish I had taken advantage of this. Also, a lot of water drips from the paddle into your lap, and I was really cold by the time I got on the bike. Again, I would have taken the time to change some clothes before the bike ride if I had planned for it, or use a spray skirt if the kayak has one. The MTB ride was tougher than I expected. My legs cramped almost immediately (surprising how much your legs are working in a kayak), and once I got through that, the bike trail was freshly cut in sandy soil and pedaling was hard work. So, don't let me discourage you... this is a great event, just be prepared!
Bryan B.
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Post by OopsFellDown on Jan 22, 2012 15:48:23 GMT -5
Oh, and I forgot my main reason for posting the previous ramble... I would be willing to be the kayaker on a relay team if anyone needs it. I have a pretty fast kayak now and would like to give it a shot. Could do the MTB segment too, but no running for me these days.
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Post by beckyl on Jan 22, 2012 18:22:44 GMT -5
Great advice particularly about the dry socks/shoes. Thanks! Yeah, I'm a bit worried about cramping when I get in the kayak but since running is my weakest skill I'll be happy to have it over first. About being cold and miserable, I'm from Ohio so mentally I'm used to that PLUS no sunshine for 2/3 of the year! LOL Anyway, I love a good challenge and what doesn't kill ya makes ya stronger.
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Post by OopsFellDown on Jan 22, 2012 19:29:54 GMT -5
Oh Oh... You're not a Buckeye are you? (I am a Wolverine) ;D
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Post by oddcouple on Jan 22, 2012 22:38:29 GMT -5
Alice has done this race a few times.It is such a cool event.You never know what the weather will be like, over the years its been in the 70's, 20's and one year rained most of the race.Its held on such a beautiful piece of property.I always looked forward to the food and the cool little building with the big potbellied stove.Y'all have FUN.
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Post by yetichick on Jan 25, 2012 7:54:40 GMT -5
I wasn't planning on changing my shoes between the run and kayak portion, but now I am rethinking my strategy. Thanks for the report, oopsfelldown. I have never done a multi-sport event with transition areas, so appreciate the advice. I will make sure I am prepared for cold and wet weather. This will be quite the challenge and a lot of fun!
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Post by beckyl on Jan 25, 2012 11:18:44 GMT -5
Yetichick, I have a feeling we'll need to give ourselves multiple options so that we are prepared for any scenario. I'd prefer not changing my shoes if my feet are dry but it will be nice having dry stuff there just in case. Should be a good time!
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