FITNESS ADVENTURE CHALLENGE

July 9, 2005

While we were somewhat disappointed in the number of teams that registered for the Fitness Adventure Challenge in Cold Lake on July 9, 2005, our disappointment was quickly replaced with awe for the amazing course that race director Rob Wellon had set out.

An unassuming start from the Fish Hatchery had us travelling over peaceful country road and easy quad trail to the first control, where things got decidedly more difficult. With the hordes of mosquitoes adding an additional and very exasperating element to the challenging navigational component, the Stadium Dogs bushwhacked through prickly bush, savannah grass, and the deepest and murkiest bogs you have ever imagined. The foul smelling bog muck was washed from our legs and shoes in the several hip-deep, fast moving creek crossings - ones that required serious diligence to stay upright and avoid an unplanned swim section. The CP's on the trek section were definitely not easy to locate, with CP3 offering the most difficulty, hidden as it was in a looping creek section at the bottom of a descent, through a stand of trees, and on the other side of a marsh. We were happy to hear the voices of the CP volunteers, because we sure couldn't see them on the other side of the river! Our switch to bikes at TA1 for 30 km of trail-breaking cross-country was slowed by some minor mechanical difficulties and the advanced course that followed CP5 offered an additional 10 km of mud bogging on another incredible quad trail that had us longing for winches on the front of our bikes. A fabulous canoe section in the sun-filled afternoon rounded out the disciplines and we were thankful to be on the water and away from the mosquitoes! The final 5 km run was across a magnificent bridge trestle - a stunning crossing with breath taking views - making it an exhilarating run to the finish and hard to top in future races. The post-race steak barbeque with salad, fresh bread and homemade desserts was second to none and the quality of the meal was a most unexpected treat at the end of a demanding day.

Approximate distances: 20 km (cumulative) trek, 40 km bike, 20 km canoe

Rob Wellon and his team did an amazing job in designing a stunning course that was challenging both mentally and physically - we will be highly recommending his race as a destination in 2006. Our special thanks to his race team, especially Ed Barden, Colleen Zukiwski, and contingent of volunteers, they did a fantastic job in every area - from manning CP's in the middle of nowhere to waiting for hours with a transport canoe at dangerous river crossings, these volunteers made every aspect of this race safe, fun and rewarding. We look forward to next year!