Adventure racing in Ireland is much more accessible and inclusive than you might think. It’s not just for the elite few! Over the years, we’ve watched thousands of competitors cross the finish line at our Gaelforce events. Here are 10 reasons why we know that adventure racing is for everyone.
1. Adventure races are achievable - They do require training and some level of commitment but being prepared means you can and will cross that finish line.
2. You can choose your challenge level - Adventure races vary in distance and challenge so that you can come in on an entry level and progress to the big guns if and when you feel able. You can start with a shorter event and build up to our 66K Gaelforce West.
3. The more effort the greater the reward - Adventure races provide an exciting and interesting goal for every fitness regime, especially when motivation levels might be low. They demand that you push yourself but as a result they reward you with an immense sense of achievement. And if signing up makes you immediately break into a cold sweat, you can be assured that when you do cross the finish line your reward will be all the more sweet.
4. Adventure races are never boring - They usually take place in locations of remarkable beauty. You’ll encounter hills, forests, trails, beaches, bogland and mountains. You’ll be inspired and distracted as you make your way to the finish line.
5. Mix it up with multi-disciplinary adventure - When you enter a multi-disciplinary adventure race you might find yourself climbing a mountain, running along grassy trails, cycling along country lanes or kayaking across a majestic fjord. Much more enjoyable than a straight up single discipline event, and more likely to match your strengths in at least one discipline!
6. Take some time out - We live in a fast-paced world. Adventure racing is a form of escapism. There is a sense that this is what our bodies should be doing – enjoying the outdoors, pushing ourselves physically and mentally, coping with the weather and the environment and challenging the body and mind.
7. It's not just a race - Adventure races are not just races, they are events. They bring people with shared goals and interests together and they offer camaraderie, support, encouragement and a feeling of inclusiveness. Everyone is welcome to be a part of this.
8. Not just for the elite - Although there are elite competitors in every adventure race, they don’t have to be intimidating to us lesser mortals! Before you know it, they are off and long gone, leaving the rest of us intent on getting through at our own pace, enjoying the experience and of course doing our best.
9. Support a charity - If you are struggling to find your mojo and none of the above have managed to get you going then how about deciding to enter an adventure race to raise money for a charity close to your heart? Adventure races qualify in the effort-worth-supporting stakes and when it all seems a bit much just think of why you are raising money, to spur you on.
Find out about Jigsaw, our charity partner.
10. The Kudos! – Once you pass that finish line, you’ll be part of a group of ordinary people who expected greatness from themselves and achieved it! Something amazing to tick off the bucket list, now what could be wrong with that?