Team Runs with Scissors
T minus 3 Days and counting...training for this first race is drawing to a close. We've been training hard and feel pretty good about our endurance at this point in the season. We plan to take it fairly easy and rest for the next few days. It's important to be at 100 percent on race day.
On Friday, we're having a big pasta dinner with friends...should be fun.
On Saturday, we'll leave Waterbury around 7:00-7:30 a.m. That should put us at the campground around 3:00.
We'll try to document as much of the trip as possible with photos and post an update when we return.
If we win anything, we may owe it to Coach Troy! Troy, you're the devil!
JG
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Friday, April 14, 2006
16 Days...
On Spinning...
So this week I joined the Waterbury Gym (Phyz Ed), and JG introduced me to "Spinnervals". These are spinning videos played on a big screen TV which has a bunch of spinning bikes around it. The first day we did one (50 minutes long) called Muscle Breakdown. Sounds bad, and it was pretty tough, but a great workout. 2 days later (with all 3 of us now members of the gym) we decided we were ready for one called (if I recall correctly, it's a little hazy) Intense Suffering. And I'll tell ya, it was!! Seriously, it was a crazy good workout, and I was pretty sore the next day. I think doing these a couple days a week will help move our training to the next level. Or, it will kill us...Maybe soon we'll be ready for the follow on tape, called 120 Minutes of Suffering!!
Grambo
On Spinning...
So this week I joined the Waterbury Gym (Phyz Ed), and JG introduced me to "Spinnervals". These are spinning videos played on a big screen TV which has a bunch of spinning bikes around it. The first day we did one (50 minutes long) called Muscle Breakdown. Sounds bad, and it was pretty tough, but a great workout. 2 days later (with all 3 of us now members of the gym) we decided we were ready for one called (if I recall correctly, it's a little hazy) Intense Suffering. And I'll tell ya, it was!! Seriously, it was a crazy good workout, and I was pretty sore the next day. I think doing these a couple days a week will help move our training to the next level. Or, it will kill us...Maybe soon we'll be ready for the follow on tape, called 120 Minutes of Suffering!!
Grambo
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Someone asked me yesterday where we stay when we go to these races. Where would you expect us to stay, the Ritz? We camp, baby! We're down with going as rustic and as low budget as possible.
At the Savage on April 30, we'll be spending Saturday night at the West Chester, Pennsylvania KOA! A tent site at the KOA is about as fancy as we're willing to get.
JG
Team Runs with Scissors
Three weeks from today we'll probably be chugging free Red Bull and meatball subs at the post-race awards ceremony--assuming we don't get lost, that is.
I've been trying to think through some of the transitions and reviewing last years race website to see if there are any clues that might help us shave some time.
The mandatory equipment list and rules are pretty straight forward.
Here are the rules courtesy of Bill and Anne Gibbons at GOALS Adventure Racing Association:
General Rules:
· The start/finish and main transition area of the race will take place at pavilion #4. There is limited parking in the area. Teams are HIGHLY encouraged to travel in one vehicle to the park.
· Teams are eligible to race when the team is fully registered, fee paid in full, paperwork, waivers, and gear checks are complete.
· Any failure to comply with mandatory safety precautions will trigger time penalties or disqualification from the race.
· Each team will receive a race passport which must be carried with them though out the entire course.
· The race director has the authority to alter the race course due to weather and safety precautions. All teams will be notified of these changes if they occur.
· Teams must complete all check points and all team members must complete all disciplines in order to remain ranked in the competition. If a team of 3 loses 1 team member due to illness or injury, the team may choose to remain in the event, after the injured member is medically cared for and released to race staff. However, the remaining 2 members will not be ranked in the competition.
· Teams coming upon an injured participant MUST stop to provide assistance as needed. Failure to assist will result in disqualification from the race.
· Team members must stay within 100 meters of one another at all times during the event
· All racers must wear unaltered provided racing bibs on the outside of their clothing or PFD’s AT ALL TIMES during the race course. No alterations of the racing bibs are allowed. Teams will also be provided with race shirts that they may choose to wear during the course.
· Each team must carry a minimum of one operational and charged cell phone for emergency purposes only. Each team will also be given the cell phone number of the medical director and race director. This is to be used in the event of an emergency only. No other cell phone calls are permitted during the race. HOWEVER, cell phone coverage in some areas may not be reliable. A race volunteer with a radio is much more reliable.
· All competitors must wear PFD during canoe section. All competitors must wear bike helmet during biking section.
· All competitors are responsible for familiarizing and preparing themselves for any health and fitness requirements for the event. It is recommended that participants notify medical staff of medical conditions at pre-race check in.
Check points and Transition Areas:
· All time recordings will be performed when the last team member passes or arrives at the manned check point. Certain unmanned checkpoints will have punches to be used in the passport.
· Time cut offs will be set for racers to arrive at transition areas by set times. Teams, who do not arrive by the specified time, will be able to complete a modified race course. They will not be eligible for ranking though.
· Missed check points will result in time penalties and cause the team to be excluded in the overall ranking, unless circumstances determined by the race director are deemed otherwise. A team may back track and get missed checkpoints, but must be cognizant of time cut offs.
· There is one main transition area in the race. You will have the opportunity to return to that area between each race section.
Safety and Medical:
· The race director may modify or change the course for safety reasons at any time.
· Trained medical crews will be located throughout the course. The teams will be mobile; a race team may have to wait for personnel to arrive. It is highly recommended that at least one team member be trained in first aid and CPR.
· There are no penalties imposed for receiving any type of emergency help or first aid treatment.
· For any injuries or conditions beyond the scope of first aid providers, the injured party will be transported to the nearest hospital facility. Transport may include ambulance services. Racers will carry their health insurance information and emergency contact information with them on the course.
· The event medical officer may remove any competitor they feel is in danger to themselves or others. Racers suffering from exhaustion, dehydration, or other race related injuries are also subject to removal.
· In the event of thunder and lightening, or severe wind, all competitors must remove watercraft immediately from the water, and seek shelter. An upside down canoe can be used as an expedient shelter.
· Only the official race map(s) are to be used on the race course.
Foot section of race:
· No trails or roads are closed for this event. The trekking and running sections of the race will take place on roads and multi-use trails, with some orienteering. Safety is of the utmost importance. All racers should pay special attention to vehicular traffic, and be vigilant with their surroundings.
· During the trail running section there are tree roots and rocks and other recreational users. It is important to watch you footing. Be vigilant of other recreational trail users which can include runners, bikers, and horse back riders. Treat the area with respect and utilize the leave no trace rules
Biking Section:
· All competitors will use and ride their own mountain bikes.
· Any and all mechanical problems encountered while racing will be handled by team members. No support crews, family, friends, or spectators are permitted to assist. However, if a team comes upon another team that is struggling with the bike repair, and assists them, then the assisting team will be granted a time bonus. Both teams must report that information to the next manned checkpoint.
· Competitors must wear a properly fitted ANSI or SNELL approved biking helmet while biking AT ALL TIMES. Failure to wear the helmet will result in disqualification from the event. Protective eye wear must also be worn. We also recommend riding gloves.
· The race course will include road biking and mountain biking. Riders are to use caution when riding on road sections. No roads will be closed to vehicular traffic.
· Use common sense when riding, especially down hill. If you feel you are beyond your limits, GET OFF AND WALK YOUR BIKE. Efficiency and safety, rather than speed, is most important during this section of the course. You will have a better finish time, and will not have to limp your way to the finish line. The trails are not closed for the race. Recreational users, including hikers, other bikers, horse back riders, could be on the trails. All racers must use caution. Treat the area with respect and utilize the leave no trace rules
· If you do fall and think you are injured, stop and evaluate your self. Your entire team must stop with you. If you feel you require medical attention, you must contact Medical director via event staff who will be located through out the mountain biking course. Find a race volunteer, who will then radio event staff for medical assistance.
Rules of the Trail
The way we ride today shapes mountain bike trail access tomorrow. Do your part to preserve and enhance our sport's access and image by observing the following rules of the trail, formulated by IMBA, the International Mountain Bicycling Association. These rules are recognized around the world as the standard code of conduct for mountain bikers. IMBA's mission is to promote mountain bicycling that is environmentally sound and socially responsible.
· Ride On Open Trails Only
· Respect trail and road closures (ask if uncertain); avoid trespassing on private land; obtain permits or other authorization as may be required. Federal and state Wilderness areas are closed to cycling. The way you ride will influence trail management decisions and policies.
· Leave No Trace
· Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Recognize different types of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage. When the trail bed is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.
· Control Your Bicycle!
· Inattention for even a second can cause problems. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations.
· Always Yield Trail
· Let your fellow trail users know you're coming. A friendly greeting or bell is considerate and works well; don't startle others. Show your respect when passing by slowing to a walking pace or even stopping. Anticipate other trail users around corners or in blind spots. Yielding means slow down, establish communication, be prepared to stop if necessary and pass safely.
· Never Scare Animals
· All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. This can be dangerous for you, others, and the animals. Give animals extra room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain).
· Plan Ahead
· Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in which you are riding -- and prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times, keep your equipment in good repair, and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. A well-executed trip is a satisfaction to you and not a burden to others. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.
Keep trails open by setting a good example of environmentally sound and socially responsible off-road cycling Remember that all mountain bicyclists will be judged by your actions.
Team Challenge Sections:
All teams will come upon team challenge sections during the race course. These require critical thinking, and self confidence more than athletic skill. A team may choose to not complete one or more of the team challenge areas. However, they will incur a time penalty. These are also some of the highlighted and fun moments of the race
Made of Old Town’s unique SuperLink3™, Discovery 158’s glossy surface literally slips through the water, glides over rocks, and does it quietly...perfect for family outings. The 158’s excellent maneuverability also makes it a fine choice to confidently challenge moderate whitewater.
The patented Discovery 158’s SuperLink3™ hull is produced using a layer of closed cell foam sandwiched by layers of high-density polyethylene. The result is a molded hull with inherent structural integrity that does not require the clumsy metal framework or keelson found in single-layer linear polyethylene boats.
Standard features include black vinyl gunwales, polyethylene decks with grab handles, polyethylene contoured seats, and ash carrying yoke and thwart. Cane seats are optional.
Canoe Section:
· Teams will be issued 2-3 canoe paddles per team plus PFD’s. Teams may opt to bring their own choice of paddles and PFD for the race. These will be kept at the main transition area until you are to go on the paddling section.
· Race director has the discretion to alter or cancel the canoe section due to weather or other safety concerns. All teams will be properly notified of the change or cancellation.
· It is mandatory that all participants wear US Coast Guard Type III or better life jackets (PFD) at all times while when participating in the water event. Any member removing PFD will cause in disqualification of the team.
· All care should be given to respect and not damage any watercraft provided. Any damaged watercraft will result in time penalties. Racers are responsible for all costs to repair any damaged equipment.
· All teams must have appropriate waterproof bags to contain and keep equipment water tight while on waterways.
· Water safety crews and volunteers will be patrolling the canoe section. Teams must have out whistle (tied to your PFD) to notify race staff if they need safety or medical assistance during the canoe course.
Team Withdrawal from Competition:
· In the case of a team withdrawal, the team must inform the race staff by the best means available, and the shortest possible time, usually by going to the closest check point or race official and informing them of intent to withdrawal. Official withdrawal occurs upon surrender of the passport to the race official at pavilion #4.
· If a team fails to notify the race staff of its withdrawal and the organization is forced to bring about a specific search for the team, the financial responsibility of said search will fall on each competitor who has not taken the necessary steps to officially inform the race staff of whereabouts and withdrawal form the competition.
· In cases where a team has lost a member due to inability to continue, health, or other reasons, the entire team must wait until help has arrived for the disabled team member before consideration can be given to allowing the remaining team members to continue racing.
· Any emergency evacuation, either by land or helicopter, is reserved for sick or injured parties only. Fees associated with this type of rescue are borne by the injured party.
Race Timing:
· The official race clock begins at the start of the race and stops for each team when an entire team has crossed the finish line.
· Time periods may be adjusted to compensate for unforeseen circumstances
Penalties:
· Time penalties will be served on the course, at the main transition area. Any time penalties that are not served on the course, for what ever reason, will be deducted from the team’s overall finish time.
· Any necessary time adjustments will be applied across the board to all teams, unless the adjustments are due to infractions, penalties, or other unforeseen circumstances.
· The race director has final decision on all time penalties.
· The list below is a general guideline, and may not cover all situations that may arise during the event. Race director has discretion to evaluate additional situations as they occur.
Disqualification from the race
· Disobeying an instruction from a race official or written race rules
· Abandoning a teammate
· Not assisting a person in danger or hurt
· Not wearing safety gear during specific discipline (PFD, bike helmet)
· Un-sportsmanlike behavior.
· Being disrespectful to any member of the public you may encounter during race course
· Use of forbidden equipment such as GPS, night vision goggles, weapons, etc
· Riding out of control, and not exercising proper safety during any part of race, especially mountain bike section
· Use of unauthorized maps
· Littering/ and or not assisting in clean up of Transition areas
One hour penalty
· Not wearing racing bib (unless directed by race director) on outside or altering racing bib
· Failure to return paddles or other equipment
· Team mates not remaining within 100 meters of one another
Prizes and awards:
· Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers in each race category. Highest prize will go to co-ed team of 3
· Various prize packages including gift certificates and gear will be awarded.
· Due to the charitable nature of this event, no cash prizes will be awarded
· All participants will receive a goodie bag compliments of: Bicycling Magazine, EMS, REI, Bucks County Outfitters, Trail Creek Outfitters, Hammer Nutrition, ROAD ID. Each participant will receive a wicking T-shirt and REI water bottle.
Sanctioning and Liability
This event is sanctioned by the United States Racing Association (USARA), meeting all minimum safety requirements set forth the organization. This event carries third party event liability insurance.
Here's the Gear List:
Mandatory Individual Gear
This is a minimum list for this event. You are welcome to carry any other equipment you feel is necessary. Racers are responsible for carrying all their own food and water for the entire race.
· Racing bib (unaltered, with no additional logo placement, worn and visible from the front throughout the entire event). Provided by GOALS ARA. Return at end of race.
· Hydration System/water bottles
· Whistle
· Protective eyewear
· Sunscreen, Lip balm (recommended)
· PFD (Minimum of USCG Type III) OR you may use one provided by race staff
· Bike helmet
Canoe paddles will be provided but racers may bring their own choice of paddles
Canoes will be provided. PFD’s will be provided, or you may bring your own.
Mandatory Team Gear
Teams must at all times possess the following mandatory team gear in addition to the mandatory individual gear being carried by all team members:
· Waterproof map carrying case
· Check Point Passport (provided by GOALS ARA)
· First Aid Kit suitable for all three teammates
· Pen or pencil
· At least one operational charged cell phone (water proofed in zip lock bag)
· Bilge pump or bailer (1 per team) (small bucket OK)
· Knife (Locking or fixed-blade, 2 inch minimum)
2 extra bicycle inner tubes or a minimum of two patches (appropriate size).
Repair kit (multi tool with Phillips and flat head screw drivers, chain break tool, allen wrench set, two tire levers, at a minimum). Note…one per team is OK.
· Throw bag (1 per team, minimum of 25 feet in length) (safety line sold at most canoe/kayak stores. Available at REI, Bucks County Outfitters, EMS)
Forbidden Equipment
Weapons
G.P.S. (Global Positioning Systems)
Motorized Vehicles
And, Team Runs with Scissors has one other important piece of mandatory gear to get us pumped on the way to the race...Monsters of Rock, Volume 1!
Three weeks from today we'll probably be chugging free Red Bull and meatball subs at the post-race awards ceremony--assuming we don't get lost, that is.
I've been trying to think through some of the transitions and reviewing last years race website to see if there are any clues that might help us shave some time.
The mandatory equipment list and rules are pretty straight forward.
Here are the rules courtesy of Bill and Anne Gibbons at GOALS Adventure Racing Association:
General Rules:
· The start/finish and main transition area of the race will take place at pavilion #4. There is limited parking in the area. Teams are HIGHLY encouraged to travel in one vehicle to the park.
· Teams are eligible to race when the team is fully registered, fee paid in full, paperwork, waivers, and gear checks are complete.
· Any failure to comply with mandatory safety precautions will trigger time penalties or disqualification from the race.
· Each team will receive a race passport which must be carried with them though out the entire course.
· The race director has the authority to alter the race course due to weather and safety precautions. All teams will be notified of these changes if they occur.
· Teams must complete all check points and all team members must complete all disciplines in order to remain ranked in the competition. If a team of 3 loses 1 team member due to illness or injury, the team may choose to remain in the event, after the injured member is medically cared for and released to race staff. However, the remaining 2 members will not be ranked in the competition.
· Teams coming upon an injured participant MUST stop to provide assistance as needed. Failure to assist will result in disqualification from the race.
· Team members must stay within 100 meters of one another at all times during the event
· All racers must wear unaltered provided racing bibs on the outside of their clothing or PFD’s AT ALL TIMES during the race course. No alterations of the racing bibs are allowed. Teams will also be provided with race shirts that they may choose to wear during the course.
· Each team must carry a minimum of one operational and charged cell phone for emergency purposes only. Each team will also be given the cell phone number of the medical director and race director. This is to be used in the event of an emergency only. No other cell phone calls are permitted during the race. HOWEVER, cell phone coverage in some areas may not be reliable. A race volunteer with a radio is much more reliable.
· All competitors must wear PFD during canoe section. All competitors must wear bike helmet during biking section.
· All competitors are responsible for familiarizing and preparing themselves for any health and fitness requirements for the event. It is recommended that participants notify medical staff of medical conditions at pre-race check in.
Check points and Transition Areas:
· All time recordings will be performed when the last team member passes or arrives at the manned check point. Certain unmanned checkpoints will have punches to be used in the passport.
· Time cut offs will be set for racers to arrive at transition areas by set times. Teams, who do not arrive by the specified time, will be able to complete a modified race course. They will not be eligible for ranking though.
· Missed check points will result in time penalties and cause the team to be excluded in the overall ranking, unless circumstances determined by the race director are deemed otherwise. A team may back track and get missed checkpoints, but must be cognizant of time cut offs.
· There is one main transition area in the race. You will have the opportunity to return to that area between each race section.
Safety and Medical:
· The race director may modify or change the course for safety reasons at any time.
· Trained medical crews will be located throughout the course. The teams will be mobile; a race team may have to wait for personnel to arrive. It is highly recommended that at least one team member be trained in first aid and CPR.
· There are no penalties imposed for receiving any type of emergency help or first aid treatment.
· For any injuries or conditions beyond the scope of first aid providers, the injured party will be transported to the nearest hospital facility. Transport may include ambulance services. Racers will carry their health insurance information and emergency contact information with them on the course.
· The event medical officer may remove any competitor they feel is in danger to themselves or others. Racers suffering from exhaustion, dehydration, or other race related injuries are also subject to removal.
· In the event of thunder and lightening, or severe wind, all competitors must remove watercraft immediately from the water, and seek shelter. An upside down canoe can be used as an expedient shelter.
· Only the official race map(s) are to be used on the race course.
Foot section of race:
· No trails or roads are closed for this event. The trekking and running sections of the race will take place on roads and multi-use trails, with some orienteering. Safety is of the utmost importance. All racers should pay special attention to vehicular traffic, and be vigilant with their surroundings.
· During the trail running section there are tree roots and rocks and other recreational users. It is important to watch you footing. Be vigilant of other recreational trail users which can include runners, bikers, and horse back riders. Treat the area with respect and utilize the leave no trace rules
Biking Section:
· All competitors will use and ride their own mountain bikes.
· Any and all mechanical problems encountered while racing will be handled by team members. No support crews, family, friends, or spectators are permitted to assist. However, if a team comes upon another team that is struggling with the bike repair, and assists them, then the assisting team will be granted a time bonus. Both teams must report that information to the next manned checkpoint.
· Competitors must wear a properly fitted ANSI or SNELL approved biking helmet while biking AT ALL TIMES. Failure to wear the helmet will result in disqualification from the event. Protective eye wear must also be worn. We also recommend riding gloves.
· The race course will include road biking and mountain biking. Riders are to use caution when riding on road sections. No roads will be closed to vehicular traffic.
· Use common sense when riding, especially down hill. If you feel you are beyond your limits, GET OFF AND WALK YOUR BIKE. Efficiency and safety, rather than speed, is most important during this section of the course. You will have a better finish time, and will not have to limp your way to the finish line. The trails are not closed for the race. Recreational users, including hikers, other bikers, horse back riders, could be on the trails. All racers must use caution. Treat the area with respect and utilize the leave no trace rules
· If you do fall and think you are injured, stop and evaluate your self. Your entire team must stop with you. If you feel you require medical attention, you must contact Medical director via event staff who will be located through out the mountain biking course. Find a race volunteer, who will then radio event staff for medical assistance.
Rules of the Trail
The way we ride today shapes mountain bike trail access tomorrow. Do your part to preserve and enhance our sport's access and image by observing the following rules of the trail, formulated by IMBA, the International Mountain Bicycling Association. These rules are recognized around the world as the standard code of conduct for mountain bikers. IMBA's mission is to promote mountain bicycling that is environmentally sound and socially responsible.
· Ride On Open Trails Only
· Respect trail and road closures (ask if uncertain); avoid trespassing on private land; obtain permits or other authorization as may be required. Federal and state Wilderness areas are closed to cycling. The way you ride will influence trail management decisions and policies.
· Leave No Trace
· Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Recognize different types of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage. When the trail bed is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.
· Control Your Bicycle!
· Inattention for even a second can cause problems. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations.
· Always Yield Trail
· Let your fellow trail users know you're coming. A friendly greeting or bell is considerate and works well; don't startle others. Show your respect when passing by slowing to a walking pace or even stopping. Anticipate other trail users around corners or in blind spots. Yielding means slow down, establish communication, be prepared to stop if necessary and pass safely.
· Never Scare Animals
· All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. This can be dangerous for you, others, and the animals. Give animals extra room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain).
· Plan Ahead
· Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in which you are riding -- and prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times, keep your equipment in good repair, and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. A well-executed trip is a satisfaction to you and not a burden to others. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.
Keep trails open by setting a good example of environmentally sound and socially responsible off-road cycling Remember that all mountain bicyclists will be judged by your actions.
Team Challenge Sections:
All teams will come upon team challenge sections during the race course. These require critical thinking, and self confidence more than athletic skill. A team may choose to not complete one or more of the team challenge areas. However, they will incur a time penalty. These are also some of the highlighted and fun moments of the race
Made of Old Town’s unique SuperLink3™, Discovery 158’s glossy surface literally slips through the water, glides over rocks, and does it quietly...perfect for family outings. The 158’s excellent maneuverability also makes it a fine choice to confidently challenge moderate whitewater.
The patented Discovery 158’s SuperLink3™ hull is produced using a layer of closed cell foam sandwiched by layers of high-density polyethylene. The result is a molded hull with inherent structural integrity that does not require the clumsy metal framework or keelson found in single-layer linear polyethylene boats.
Standard features include black vinyl gunwales, polyethylene decks with grab handles, polyethylene contoured seats, and ash carrying yoke and thwart. Cane seats are optional.
Canoe Section:
· Teams will be issued 2-3 canoe paddles per team plus PFD’s. Teams may opt to bring their own choice of paddles and PFD for the race. These will be kept at the main transition area until you are to go on the paddling section.
· Race director has the discretion to alter or cancel the canoe section due to weather or other safety concerns. All teams will be properly notified of the change or cancellation.
· It is mandatory that all participants wear US Coast Guard Type III or better life jackets (PFD) at all times while when participating in the water event. Any member removing PFD will cause in disqualification of the team.
· All care should be given to respect and not damage any watercraft provided. Any damaged watercraft will result in time penalties. Racers are responsible for all costs to repair any damaged equipment.
· All teams must have appropriate waterproof bags to contain and keep equipment water tight while on waterways.
· Water safety crews and volunteers will be patrolling the canoe section. Teams must have out whistle (tied to your PFD) to notify race staff if they need safety or medical assistance during the canoe course.
Team Withdrawal from Competition:
· In the case of a team withdrawal, the team must inform the race staff by the best means available, and the shortest possible time, usually by going to the closest check point or race official and informing them of intent to withdrawal. Official withdrawal occurs upon surrender of the passport to the race official at pavilion #4.
· If a team fails to notify the race staff of its withdrawal and the organization is forced to bring about a specific search for the team, the financial responsibility of said search will fall on each competitor who has not taken the necessary steps to officially inform the race staff of whereabouts and withdrawal form the competition.
· In cases where a team has lost a member due to inability to continue, health, or other reasons, the entire team must wait until help has arrived for the disabled team member before consideration can be given to allowing the remaining team members to continue racing.
· Any emergency evacuation, either by land or helicopter, is reserved for sick or injured parties only. Fees associated with this type of rescue are borne by the injured party.
Race Timing:
· The official race clock begins at the start of the race and stops for each team when an entire team has crossed the finish line.
· Time periods may be adjusted to compensate for unforeseen circumstances
Penalties:
· Time penalties will be served on the course, at the main transition area. Any time penalties that are not served on the course, for what ever reason, will be deducted from the team’s overall finish time.
· Any necessary time adjustments will be applied across the board to all teams, unless the adjustments are due to infractions, penalties, or other unforeseen circumstances.
· The race director has final decision on all time penalties.
· The list below is a general guideline, and may not cover all situations that may arise during the event. Race director has discretion to evaluate additional situations as they occur.
Disqualification from the race
· Disobeying an instruction from a race official or written race rules
· Abandoning a teammate
· Not assisting a person in danger or hurt
· Not wearing safety gear during specific discipline (PFD, bike helmet)
· Un-sportsmanlike behavior.
· Being disrespectful to any member of the public you may encounter during race course
· Use of forbidden equipment such as GPS, night vision goggles, weapons, etc
· Riding out of control, and not exercising proper safety during any part of race, especially mountain bike section
· Use of unauthorized maps
· Littering/ and or not assisting in clean up of Transition areas
One hour penalty
· Not wearing racing bib (unless directed by race director) on outside or altering racing bib
· Failure to return paddles or other equipment
· Team mates not remaining within 100 meters of one another
Prizes and awards:
· Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers in each race category. Highest prize will go to co-ed team of 3
· Various prize packages including gift certificates and gear will be awarded.
· Due to the charitable nature of this event, no cash prizes will be awarded
· All participants will receive a goodie bag compliments of: Bicycling Magazine, EMS, REI, Bucks County Outfitters, Trail Creek Outfitters, Hammer Nutrition, ROAD ID. Each participant will receive a wicking T-shirt and REI water bottle.
Sanctioning and Liability
This event is sanctioned by the United States Racing Association (USARA), meeting all minimum safety requirements set forth the organization. This event carries third party event liability insurance.
Here's the Gear List:
Mandatory Individual Gear
This is a minimum list for this event. You are welcome to carry any other equipment you feel is necessary. Racers are responsible for carrying all their own food and water for the entire race.
· Racing bib (unaltered, with no additional logo placement, worn and visible from the front throughout the entire event). Provided by GOALS ARA. Return at end of race.
· Hydration System/water bottles
· Whistle
· Protective eyewear
· Sunscreen, Lip balm (recommended)
· PFD (Minimum of USCG Type III) OR you may use one provided by race staff
· Bike helmet
Canoe paddles will be provided but racers may bring their own choice of paddles
Canoes will be provided. PFD’s will be provided, or you may bring your own.
Mandatory Team Gear
Teams must at all times possess the following mandatory team gear in addition to the mandatory individual gear being carried by all team members:
· Waterproof map carrying case
· Check Point Passport (provided by GOALS ARA)
· First Aid Kit suitable for all three teammates
· Pen or pencil
· At least one operational charged cell phone (water proofed in zip lock bag)
· Bilge pump or bailer (1 per team) (small bucket OK)
· Knife (Locking or fixed-blade, 2 inch minimum)
2 extra bicycle inner tubes or a minimum of two patches (appropriate size).
Repair kit (multi tool with Phillips and flat head screw drivers, chain break tool, allen wrench set, two tire levers, at a minimum). Note…one per team is OK.
· Throw bag (1 per team, minimum of 25 feet in length) (safety line sold at most canoe/kayak stores. Available at REI, Bucks County Outfitters, EMS)
Forbidden Equipment
Weapons
G.P.S. (Global Positioning Systems)
Motorized Vehicles
And, Team Runs with Scissors has one other important piece of mandatory gear to get us pumped on the way to the race...Monsters of Rock, Volume 1!
Monday, April 03, 2006
27 Days!!!
Well, the great, sunny weather last week got us into the biking mood, so myself and JG both went out and purchased new mountain bikes!! He had been riding an older Trek 4500, and I was riding an even older GT (no suspension at all), and after last year we thrashed them pretty bad. We both ended up buying hardtail '05 Kona bikes, J got the Blast and I opted for the Cinder Cone. They are both awesome bikes, with extremely beefy Al frames, disc brakes, and good components. Of course, we immediately took them out into the woods (last Thursday) for some fun. They performed great, although the trails are still too wet for any real ridin'. Friday (which was 70+ degrees out) the 3 of us went for a road ride from Waterbury, across the river, down River Road, and up Camel's Hump road to the trailhead. A good ride, about 17-18 miles round trip, and the climb up Camel's Hump road was a great workout. I think we'll be adding that the the regular training schedule. Even better was the ride down, as it took us 50 minutes to ride up the road and only about 7 minutes to ride down!! Love that front shock and disc brakes!!!
In other news, you'll note a few schedule changes on our schedule (to the right=>). JH is planning on being away at the end of July, so we are dropping the Mt. Snow race and adding The Ultimate Adirondack Race June 24th. Looks like an awesome (and tough) race. Can't wait...
Well, the great, sunny weather last week got us into the biking mood, so myself and JG both went out and purchased new mountain bikes!! He had been riding an older Trek 4500, and I was riding an even older GT (no suspension at all), and after last year we thrashed them pretty bad. We both ended up buying hardtail '05 Kona bikes, J got the Blast and I opted for the Cinder Cone. They are both awesome bikes, with extremely beefy Al frames, disc brakes, and good components. Of course, we immediately took them out into the woods (last Thursday) for some fun. They performed great, although the trails are still too wet for any real ridin'. Friday (which was 70+ degrees out) the 3 of us went for a road ride from Waterbury, across the river, down River Road, and up Camel's Hump road to the trailhead. A good ride, about 17-18 miles round trip, and the climb up Camel's Hump road was a great workout. I think we'll be adding that the the regular training schedule. Even better was the ride down, as it took us 50 minutes to ride up the road and only about 7 minutes to ride down!! Love that front shock and disc brakes!!!
In other news, you'll note a few schedule changes on our schedule (to the right=>). JH is planning on being away at the end of July, so we are dropping the Mt. Snow race and adding The Ultimate Adirondack Race June 24th. Looks like an awesome (and tough) race. Can't wait...
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