The following is super write-up, by Leo Roth of the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, that describes the basics to adventure racing.

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Adventure races are nonstop, non-motorized, multi-sport team events that take place in the wilderness.

Contestants navigate to checkpoints using only maps and compasses. Mountaineering, hiking, kayaking, rafting, river boarding, orienteering and mountain biking are required skills. But endurance, strength, commitment, selflessness and sheer will are also tested.

Primal Quest, featuring co-ed teams, is the sport’s premier event. Held in locales in Washington state, Colorado, Utah and Montana, Sportales.com included it on its list of the “Seven Hidden Wonders of the Sporting World.” The Iditarod dog sled race in Alaska and the Hawaiian Ironman Triathlon are also on the list.

Primal Quest race director Don Mann relishes that his events are nicknamed “Sufferfests.”

“Suffering is what they come for,” the former Navy Seal and Ironman participant said in an interview.

Here’s how to get started:

Types of races: Beginners usually start with sprint races that last 2-12 hours. Weekenders last a few days and require more logistical planning and night navigation. Expedition level is for experts. These last 3-15 days and require the whole gamut of outdoor travel and survival skills.

Events: You’ll need to gain proficiency in navigation/map reading (orienteering), trail running and trekking, mountain biking, paddling (canoes, kayaks, rafts), climbing fixed ropes, and river swimming (use of river boards). Some races require certifications or skill testing to enter. Some allow support crews.

Training: Simulate the wilderness experience as best you can. Be sure to practice at least two disciplines so the body can get used to transitioning from say biking to running or mountaineering to kayaking. Train at various times of the day with a full backpack. Test out foods and fluids that keep you both physically and mentally refreshed as well as the laundry list of gear the sport requires. When it comes to gear, lighter is always better and never scrimp on quality footwear.

Learning more: Volunteering at an event is a good way to find out if you’d like to give adventure racing a try. Or attend an outdoors school. The sport isn’t cheap. Entry fees to events can run from $200 a team to well into the thousands, plus travel expenses.

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