The disciplines involved in adventure racing are as varied as the races
themselves. Mountain biking, trekking, and paddling are the most common
activities in a typical adventure race. Events can also include more
advanced disciplines, such as cliff rappelling, orienteering, and
whitewater paddling.
The multi-disciplined nature of adventure racing is one characteristic that sets this sport apart from most other racing sports. Some athletes are good runners or are good at paddling; adventure racers have to be good at multiple disciplines.
Trekking
The general act of moving across land on foot is known in adventure racing as trekking. This discipline can include hiking, running, or walking, and sometimes includes light climbing by hand and foot. In advanced races, trekking can also include making one's way across very rough terrain, swampy or muddy terrain, or boulder hopping.
Mountain Biking
Cross-country travel on a bicycle over rough, and often hilly or mountainous terrain takes up the majority of the mileage in most adventure races. Bike trails can range from dirt ATV/snowmobile paths to trails that push a mountain bike to its limits.
Paddling
Whether by standard canoe, racing canoe, or kayak, paddling requires good teamwork more than any other discipline. Only with a dedicated team effort will an adventure race team be successful in this discipline. Paddling can be up or down a gentle stream, across a lake, or can involve more challenging watercourses, such as whitewater rivers or an ocean coastline.
Other Disciplines
Though most adventure racing events involve trekking, paddling, and biking, there are several other disciplines which can be found in various races. Rope rappelling, the most common advanced discipline, involves climbing steep natural barriers (such as a cliff) with the use of climbing equipment. Other advanced disciplines include inline skating, horseback riding, canyoneering, river traverses, and special tests. Another advanced aspect of adventure racing is orienteering, which involves the ability of a team to use a map and compass to find their way through unfamiliar territory.
The second annual Aroostook Adventure Race will take place on Saturday, August 28th. The total course distance is 26.2 miles, the same distance as a standard marathon. This course will challenge three-person adventure race teams with approximately 13 miles of mountain biking, 6-7 miles of paddling in as ABS canoe, and 6-7 miles of trekking over varied terrain. Knowledge of orienteering skills is strongly recommended, as some portions of the course may require off-trail decisions.
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