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Extreme Adventure Racing
from: Maxx Sports GuidesThe new sport of Adventure Racing is now one of the fastest growing extreme sports. Adventure Racing isn't one single sport with one set of rules but more comparable to an extreme sports Olympics. Of course, the name along shoule give you a clue as to what this sport is all about -- competition. As with any race, the first person (or first people, if it's a team event) across the 'finish line' wins. But be forewarned, this combination of a competition sport along with that of extreme sports can be very addictive to you adventurous types who love the adrenaline rush of this type of competition.
For those unfamiliar with the idea of extreme sports, you need to understand that they aren't all about a death wish or taking wild and ridiculous chances (although these are possibilities). Extreme sports are really about a person challenging themself to beat the odds, regardless of what the odds may be. It's about individual achievment and attaining a level of focus and determination to accomplish what that person may have previously doubted about their capabilities to achieve. Basically, that's what extreme sports are all about.
There are a number of sports 'officially' included in the world of adventure racing. Some of these races are very long and require training along the lines of running a marathon.
Hiking - Running - Scrambling: This competition takes place on mixed terrains and, as is the case with all extreme sports, it's held in any type of weather. These competitions often get started with a run from the starting point to some difficult terrain that requires hiking up or scrambling. The term scrambling basically means climbing without the use of ropes using only your hands for balance (as opposed to grabbing or pulling yourself up).
Paddling: In this competition you could be paddling a canoe or rowboat, but most often a kayak across a pool, lake, or river, which means water conditions will vary from smooth to extremely choppy. Becoming a highly skillful paddler under all conditions is a major advantage in adventure racing since it's often one of the weakest events for many adventure racers. If you excel, it will definitely give you and/or your team a potentially huge lead.
Navigation: There are adventure races that have a section where navigation is an event. It's certainly an important component for any cross-country event. Navigation is your ability to read the terrain map and read a compass that allows you to quickly find your target location ahead of anyone else. Doing this well is similar to paddling since many adventure racers have weak navigation skills, thus giving you a great advantage.
Mountain Biking: When mountain biking you might be inclined to get rid of extra weight, such as your headlight. However, when taking part in adventure racing, it's likely you'll be biking at night, so scratch that idea. However, you can replace a heavy, clunky light with a lightweight headlight that provides a bright light for rough terrain and a lower-powered light for the roads. Also, if you're racing in a team, it's ideal if everyone has the same type of bike which makes part swapping possible when required.
Climbing: There are adventure races that include a climbing or rappelling (the opposite of climbing) component. Getting some training and practice for this event is advisable and it's also recommended that you buy some lightweight climbing gear and become a minimalist so you don't weigh yourself down.
Teamwork: Of course, teamwork isn't a competition -- but a necessity. When racing in a team, your teammates are much more than fellow adventurers, they'll actually become extra arms, legs and brains. The best teams function like a well-oiled machine and act as a single unit. The worst teams maintain individual preference, and grapple with unity and may need an army to reassemble the team if it falls to pieces.
Understand that the winning team in any race isn't necessarily the team with the strongest, fastest or most skilled individuals. Winning teams don't have individuals -- just team members. Gaining a team member mentality isn't easy for everyone to achieve. However, competitive adventure sports get highly emotional and too often emotions lay waste to the tightest teamwork.
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