RIB MOUNTAIN – With the extension of Safer at Home orders through Memorial Day weekend, the sixth annual Rib Mountain Adventure Challenge will be held virtually.
“We felt we needed to think outside the box to offer an opportunity to the adventure race community to stay active during this challenging time,” said race director Anna Nummelin in a news release.
The Virtual Adventure Challenge participants will have 48 hours to complete five hours of physical activity over three stages. Participants have the flexibility to start the challenge anytime between now and May 31 and can take breaks within the stages. The three stages consist of a run/hike, bike and activity of choice, with specific instructions to complete each segment.
“We wanted the Virtual Adventure Challenge to provide an opportunity for all ability levels to participate,” said race director Tim Buchholz in the release. “Adventure racing usually consists of using a map and compass to navigate through an unmarked course, so we will require participants to plan their route to reach specific features, such as a hilltop.”
Adventure races typically include a staged course where racers bike, run/trek, paddle, and participate in unique challenges. In the Virtual Adventure Challenge, Buchholz and Nummelin are allowing flexibility in disciplines since boats are typically provided in adventure races and in some areas boat landings are currently closed. Participants can even add an activity they always wanted in an adventure race, such as weightlifting, stairclimbing or scootering.
The registration fee of $30 goes toward the cost of an event T-shirt, with net proceeds going to COVID-19 relief efforts.
For more race information on the Virtual Adventure Challenge, go to the IRONBULL Facebook page or https://www.ironbull.org/virtual-adventure-challenge.
Photo of Ironbull 2019 courtesy Gary Barden.
