Race the Rockies
Golden 2008

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does "Unsupported" mean?
A: Unsupported means simply that athletes must complete their transitions without any help. Athletes will pack supplies into supply drops and deliver them to race staff the evening before the race. Volunteers will move the supplies to the designated transition areas and once the athletes have used their supplies and repacked the containers, volunteers will move the bins back to the finish line. The advantage is reduced logistics for competitors. They can race without having to feel guilty about their support team having to give up an entire weekend for them. For organized and practiced teams, there is an additional advantage in that the transitions become more of a factor in the race.

Q: What is the breakdown of events?
A: Can't tell ya. The race course remains a secret until the evening before the start. You can bet that the disciplines will be divided into roughly thirds.

Q: Is there a lot of bushwhacking?
A: There is some bushwhacking, but the amount that you end up doing will depend on your route. It will be a strategic decision on how much forest you tackle versus how long you hang on to a fireroad.

Q: Can two solos paddle in the same boat?
A: Nope!

Q: What is a co-ed team?
A: To "officially compete" all teams must be of mixed gender. This means two males and a female, or two females and a male.

Q: SPACE BAG versus SPACE BLANKET?
A: The mandatory gear list stipulates an emergency space BAG or bivy bag instead of a blanket. This is so you can slide yourself in and be totally protected from rain/snow/wind without having to hold the sides together. If you don't already have a waterproof bivy bag, save yourself some cash and pick up a Space Emergency Bag. It is available from MEC for about $13. You can order one online through their website at www.mec.ca. It is a bargain because it's compact, lightweight and cheaper than a gore-tex bivy bag, which usually runs around $200 plus. Here is some info about the space bag from MEC's website: Space Emergency Bag - Weight: 115.0 grams - Product Number: 4001-916

Q: Can I race in a team of all males/females?
A: Of course! We allow teams of all males or all females to compete unofficially. If you do decide to race ‘unofficially’ the only thing you miss out on is official placing and prizes. Unless you plan on being in the top 3, it’s not a big deal….we will keep track of your time and penalties just as if you were an official team and post your results with everyone else…you get the same race, the same party and the same great experience. We will also put your names in for draw prizes at the party after the race. Therefore, if you have a great group of friends and you’re after some fun, go for it. You won’t be the only ones.

Q: Is there any way I can find a team to join or support?
A: Anyone who wants to participate in a Race the Rockies Adventure Race, but can't fill a team can email .

Q: I would like to register as a team but haven't found teammates yet. Can I change my registration to solo if I don't find teammates as the race approaches?
A: No problem! Register your team as normal, and if you decide to change your registration to a solo competitor just send us an e-mail before July 1, 2008 and we'll make the necessary changes.

Q: I would like to register as a solo athlete but I might chicken out before the race. Can I change my registration to a team later on?
A: No problem! Register as a solo athlete, and if you decide to change your registration to a team just send us an e-mail before July 1st and we'll make it happen.

Q: How do I pay for this race?
A: You can pay online or you can send payment by cheque or money order in Canadian funds to the following address: Race the Rockies Ltd., 8002 Ranchview Dr NW, Calgary AB, T3G 1T1, Canada.

Q: How much is the entry fee?
A: $175 (CAD) plus 5% GST per racer under 23 years old, $200 (CAD) plus 5% GST per racer for the first 20 racers to pay before Dec 15, 2007, $225 (CAD) plus 5% GST per racer otherwise.

Q: Do you have to provide your own boat for the paddling? If so, can you rent one there?
A: You do have to bring your own boat and you can rent one in Calgary. Rentals are available at: Rocky Mountain Paddling Centre, Undercurrents, and the University of Calgary Outdoor Centre. Note: Boat rentals and transportation can be arranged through Race the Rockies (see details above).

Q: What kind of elevation will we reach?
A: Approximately 8000' or 2400 meters.

Q: Is this adventure race just for experienced/elite adventure racers?
A: This race is geared towards fit newcomers and experienced athletes with solid navigation skills. Previous AR experience and comfort in an off-trail alpine environment is important for anyone competing in the solo category. Some scrambling experience is helpful. Contact us if you have any concerns.

Q: How long will the race take most people?
A: We expect 80% of athletes to finish in under 18 hours, weather and conditions depending. Athletes still on the course after 18 hours may be permitted to finish at the discretion of the race director. We expect elite athletes to finish in much less time.

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