The third annual Isle of Man Adventure Race, sponsored by Price Waterhouse Coopers, sets off next Saturday and it looks to be an exciting weekend for both competitors and spectators alike. Teams are currently completing the last of their training regimes in preparation for the multidisciplinary challenge. This year the competition is set to be fierce; two time runners up ‘Rockhoppers’ are looking to secure their first win, but last year’s champions ‘Adventure Club Outsiders’ are just as keen to keep their title.
The first day of the event kicks off on Saturday 16th at 10am with a morning Sea Swim around Peel castle to finish on Fenella Beach, Peel, followed by a 12km Sea Kayak, and a 14km Mountain Bike route from Niarbyl concluding day one. Day two’s schedule on Sunday involves a gruelling 9km Hill Run, starting at 10am at Fenella Beach. The teams must then nominate one team member to complete the intimidating Rope Ascent. A 40m high crane will be installed in Fenella Beach car park and competitors must climb 25 metres to the top in a head to head battle, not only against other competitors, but also against the clock. With Peel Castle as a backdrop, this is one of the most dramatic events for spectators and well worth a look. The finale to the weekend is a great deal more relaxing: the prize presentation followed by a barbeque at the Adventurous Experience’s base in Patrick.
The Isle of Man makes the perfect natural playground to host to such an event, with the race routes not merely challenging, but also providing a stunning backdrop; in previous years the kayak competitors were even rewarded with sightings of basking sharks!
Keirron Tastagh, director at Adventurous Experiences Ltd said ‘This year’s race is set to be a great event for both competitors and spectators alike. Local response has been great and the weekend could not happen without the continued support from the Isle of Man Steam Packet, Sea Kayaking UK, Green Mann Spring, Mylchreests Motors and Intersport (RC Turner Ltd). We are planning to continue to build the event and in 2013 will be opening up the race with elite and amateur categories. ’
Although entries for this year are now closed, those hoping to enter a team next year are encouraged to check out the race atmosphere and potential competition.
