For those of you who are new to the area (or just new to Nebraska Adventure Racing) the Nebraska Sports Council's 'NSC Racing' group is the predominate adventure race organizer for eastern Nebraska. They have both originated new events and incorporated existing independent events into a unified race series. 2008 will be the second year of the NSC Race Series in which teams accumulate points for each series race finish leading up to the crowning of Series Champions in the fall. For more information, go to NSC Racing.com.
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Now the Basics...
The classic definition of Adventure Racing: A self-supported, multi day, multi sport, non motorized team endurance race with a wilderness aspect. With the growth and evolution of the sport, there have been unlimited variations on this classic concept. Event lengths can vary from a couple hours for the beginner up to professional multi day expeditions. A wilderness setting is the norm, but there are examples of races staged across urban landscapes. Race directors are always looking for new and creative ways to capitalize on their local environment and available resources.
At the heart of Adventure Racing is the self-supported team. Self-supported means racers must carry with them all water, food and equipment needed until the next designated checkpoint - this might be a short time/distance or extended travel through a remote unpopulated area. This is in contrast to the traditional marathon or triathlon in which competitors are supported by (or at least have access to) frequent aid stations along the course.
Teams are usually made up of three to five people. Coed is the traditional rule, but here again evolution of the sport has made all-male and all-female divisions common at the recreational levels. Team members must stay together at all times. Your team will only be as fast as your slowest member so it is essential to work cooperatively and help each other out. Versatility, humility and a willingness to face unexpected challenges are qualities that contribute to a good adventure racer.
more to come...
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