The Atomic AR is taking place in Blue Ridge, GA and is building on the success of last year's race by tapping into new territory! The 30 hour race will prove to be an exciting challenge for the elite athletes and will make for a competitive finish.
We recently talked to the Race director, Greg Owens, about his love and involvement with the sport of Adventure Racing, and here's what he had to say.
1. How did you get into adventure race production?
In 2003, I did my first AR which was 18 hours and placed at the bottom of the leader board and have been addicted to this "get outdoors & play in the woods sport" ever since. I started Pangea Adventure Racing in the later part of 2007 as it appeared that AR in Florida was dwindling away. Most of our events have an intro level event that ranges from 3 to 5 hours and has helped to introduce many to AR.
2. What are the biggest challenges you face as a RD in your area?
Permitting is many times a challenge with new venues. Reaching new prospects is also challenging as they feel that AR's are beyond them and prefer to go participate in the Mud/Obstacle races sweeping the nation. Logistics with canoes early on was a issue as was volunteers though not so much an issue anymore.3. What can participants expect...that you're willing to share?
Great views, mountains, single track biking, limited white water paddling in canoes, challenging land navigation.
4. What is the biggest change from last year's race?
With the date of the race being moved back one week, many new lands usually reserved for hunting become available. And no nighttime white water paddling.
5. What advice do you have for training or just from general experience in the AR world?
Have fun when training and train in multiple disciplines - for example do a good run followed with a nice bike ride back-to-back several times a week. Train eating the foods you plan to use during the event. Couple of weeks or further out prior to the event, train with teammates if possible for a long weekend. Not necessarily sleep deprived but a good weekend of training and include the night aspect so you are comfortable with your lights. Lastly, have a transitions plan so you can minimize time spent in TAs.
