Archived Blog Posts by Date
October 2012 (1)
BMAR Competes in Checkpoint Tracker Nationals
Posted on October 22, 2012 by ChelseaLuttrall
Read about our West Virginia Adventure here: https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B3z7M1y2W1fIX09ybVZpNDUyWGc
Posted on October 22, 2012 by ChelseaLuttrall
Read about our West Virginia Adventure here: https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B3z7M1y2W1fIX09ybVZpNDUyWGc
May 2012 (1)
A Sneak Peak
Posted on May 13, 2012 by ChelseaLuttrall
Sorry about the shaky camera and poor quality, but here’s a sneak peak into the fun biking you’d get to enjoy if you do the 24 hour race. Register today! BMAR@AM Sneak Peak
Posted on May 13, 2012 by ChelseaLuttrall
Sorry about the shaky camera and poor quality, but here’s a sneak peak into the fun biking you’d get to enjoy if you do the 24 hour race. Register today! BMAR@AM Sneak Peak
March 2012 (1)
New Trail Run Info Available!
Posted on March 16, 2012 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
We’ve updated the website with new information about the trail run. Updates include official start times, aid station information, new course maps, sanctioning/chip timing, a change to the divisions 50-59 and 60+, course detail (in prose), race prizes and finisher medals, parking information and… FREE BEER FROM PHANTOM CANYON! A big thanks to our sponsors New Balance, Colorado Running Company, Phantom Canyon, Power Bar, and La’aus Tacos!
Posted on March 16, 2012 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
We’ve updated the website with new information about the trail run. Updates include official start times, aid station information, new course maps, sanctioning/chip timing, a change to the divisions 50-59 and 60+, course detail (in prose), race prizes and finisher medals, parking information and… FREE BEER FROM PHANTOM CANYON! A big thanks to our sponsors New Balance, Colorado Running Company, Phantom Canyon, Power Bar, and La’aus Tacos!
February 2012 (1)
Good Luck!
Posted on February 5, 2012 by ChelseaLuttrall
Good luck everybody who’s doing the Super Half tomorrow! Tony will be running with you all and two of us will be out there as a living billboard cheering you all on. Again, good luck!Super Half
Posted on February 5, 2012 by ChelseaLuttrall
Good luck everybody who’s doing the Super Half tomorrow! Tony will be running with you all and two of us will be out there as a living billboard cheering you all on. Again, good luck!Super Half
January 2012 (2)
Registration Open for Big Mountain Trail Run
Posted on January 18, 2012 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
A TRUE COLORADO TRAIL RUN – RAW BEAUTY AND RUGGED TERRAIN
This is a beautifully scenic and inspiring mountain running course.
5k: $25, 10k: $30, Half Marathon: $40
http://bigmountainar.com/BMTR2012.php
http://www.bigmountainar.com/register.php
Posted on January 18, 2012 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
A TRUE COLORADO TRAIL RUN – RAW BEAUTY AND RUGGED TERRAIN
This is a beautifully scenic and inspiring mountain running course.
5k: $25, 10k: $30, Half Marathon: $40
http://bigmountainar.com/BMTR2012.php
http://www.bigmountainar.com/register.php
Registration almost open…
Posted on January 11, 2012 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Are you guys ready our 2012 races? We almost are. Registration for the Big Mountain Trail Run will be open very, very soon. We are also about 90% of the way to registration for Rampart Rage and 80% of the way to Big Mountain AR @ America’s Mountain. We’ll keep you posted when we’re about to open the gates. Meanwhile check out an article about BMAR@AM on the Pikes Peak Courier.http://www.ourcoloradonews.com/tellercounty/sports/adventure-racers-choose-gmf/article_4bd648a4-689f-5e6c-98ff-917efd5dd828.html
Posted on January 11, 2012 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Are you guys ready our 2012 races? We almost are. Registration for the Big Mountain Trail Run will be open very, very soon. We are also about 90% of the way to registration for Rampart Rage and 80% of the way to Big Mountain AR @ America’s Mountain. We’ll keep you posted when we’re about to open the gates. Meanwhile check out an article about BMAR@AM on the Pikes Peak Courier.http://www.ourcoloradonews.com/tellercounty/sports/adventure-racers-choose-gmf/article_4bd648a4-689f-5e6c-98ff-917efd5dd828.html
December 2011 (1)
Big Mountain Adventure Races in Snowshoe Event
Posted on December 12, 2011 by jluttrall
Chelsea and I got to go visit Sunlight Mountain Resort near Glenwood Springs over the weekend. We were scouting for potential future races and got to compete in the Day of Infamy Snowshoe Race on Sunday.
Sunday started as a normal day, though a little more relaxed than most race day mornings. We ate a little too much of a normal breakfast, dressed for the race and Chamois Butt’red up (well, I did. Some people have more problems with chafing than others, dang it). The morning then continued with us not being able to find where we were supposed to register, and we just about missed registration and the race start. Because of that, we didn’t have time to do a slow warm-up, as Tony Lutack, our resident personal trainer and spinning coach at Lifetime Fitness, always encourages us to do. Instead, we got to warm up nice and slow-like as we trudged uphill behind all the slow people! Man, was that frustrating! I thought we’d never get to running. About a half-mile into the race, we finally ducked and weaved our way through the walker traffic, and the race was really on then. Of course, by that time, I had spent a lot of energy going up nearly 500 feet, and Chelsea, the monster athlete, started pulling away from me. It seemed that I would finish behind her yet again. I hate losing, especially when it’s something I should be winning. The two beers I had the night before probably didn’t help, nor did the short but steep run I did at about 8pm. As we continued uphill, Chelsea pulled farther and farther away, getting nearly a quarter mile ahead of me at the top of the uphill portion of the race.
Though I was getting bummed out, once we were nearing the half-way point, I was able to talk myself into trying harder. My heart was beating through my chest, and my head was about to explode with every beat, but I managed to convince myself that we were nearly half-way, and I didn’t need to keep any energy (or life source) in reserve. Anything I had left in the tank could be let loose and used up entirely. So, I started running again.
Within the first five minutes of running again, I was able to pass up four people. Never mind the fact that one was a teenage kid and another was in the “Over 45″ division (I won’t say how far over 45 he was). It doesn’t matter. The fact was that I had passed four in five minutes, and my nemesis was again in sight (In every race, racers pick out that one team or that one person that you aim to beat at all cost; that team or person that you know you can beat if you can just get your body/bodies to cooperate.). I told myself to push through the uphills and keep running. Through the burning legs and lungs and throbbing head, I kept running, passing my nemesis with about 1.5 miles to go. Then, I set my sights on my new nemesis: my wife. Hahahahaha…
Chelsea has long been the superior endurance athlete, but I hoped that I would be able to take advantage of her having a fairly bad cold this weekend. The uphill, though, proved to me that she’s not just better than me, she’s way better, even when sick. When we got to the downhill, though, I picked up my pace from what felt like about 20 minute miles to about 7 minute miles, and no one within 5 minutes in front of me was safe. When I saw Chelsea, I sped up even more, and I passed her with about 3/4 of a mile to go. I then passed up two more people, including Chelsea’s nemesis, whom she was unable to overtake.
This was our first snowshoe race ever, so we were really happy with the results we got. I finished 10th of 25 “Under 45 Men,” and Chelsea finished 8th of 45 “Under 45 Women.” Two top 10′s in our very first snowshoe race. Not bad. Oh, and I beat Chelsea. First time ever.
Posted on December 12, 2011 by jluttrall
Chelsea and I got to go visit Sunlight Mountain Resort near Glenwood Springs over the weekend. We were scouting for potential future races and got to compete in the Day of Infamy Snowshoe Race on Sunday.
Sunday started as a normal day, though a little more relaxed than most race day mornings. We ate a little too much of a normal breakfast, dressed for the race and Chamois Butt’red up (well, I did. Some people have more problems with chafing than others, dang it). The morning then continued with us not being able to find where we were supposed to register, and we just about missed registration and the race start. Because of that, we didn’t have time to do a slow warm-up, as Tony Lutack, our resident personal trainer and spinning coach at Lifetime Fitness, always encourages us to do. Instead, we got to warm up nice and slow-like as we trudged uphill behind all the slow people! Man, was that frustrating! I thought we’d never get to running. About a half-mile into the race, we finally ducked and weaved our way through the walker traffic, and the race was really on then. Of course, by that time, I had spent a lot of energy going up nearly 500 feet, and Chelsea, the monster athlete, started pulling away from me. It seemed that I would finish behind her yet again. I hate losing, especially when it’s something I should be winning. The two beers I had the night before probably didn’t help, nor did the short but steep run I did at about 8pm. As we continued uphill, Chelsea pulled farther and farther away, getting nearly a quarter mile ahead of me at the top of the uphill portion of the race.
Though I was getting bummed out, once we were nearing the half-way point, I was able to talk myself into trying harder. My heart was beating through my chest, and my head was about to explode with every beat, but I managed to convince myself that we were nearly half-way, and I didn’t need to keep any energy (or life source) in reserve. Anything I had left in the tank could be let loose and used up entirely. So, I started running again.
Within the first five minutes of running again, I was able to pass up four people. Never mind the fact that one was a teenage kid and another was in the “Over 45″ division (I won’t say how far over 45 he was). It doesn’t matter. The fact was that I had passed four in five minutes, and my nemesis was again in sight (In every race, racers pick out that one team or that one person that you aim to beat at all cost; that team or person that you know you can beat if you can just get your body/bodies to cooperate.). I told myself to push through the uphills and keep running. Through the burning legs and lungs and throbbing head, I kept running, passing my nemesis with about 1.5 miles to go. Then, I set my sights on my new nemesis: my wife. Hahahahaha…
Chelsea has long been the superior endurance athlete, but I hoped that I would be able to take advantage of her having a fairly bad cold this weekend. The uphill, though, proved to me that she’s not just better than me, she’s way better, even when sick. When we got to the downhill, though, I picked up my pace from what felt like about 20 minute miles to about 7 minute miles, and no one within 5 minutes in front of me was safe. When I saw Chelsea, I sped up even more, and I passed her with about 3/4 of a mile to go. I then passed up two more people, including Chelsea’s nemesis, whom she was unable to overtake.
This was our first snowshoe race ever, so we were really happy with the results we got. I finished 10th of 25 “Under 45 Men,” and Chelsea finished 8th of 45 “Under 45 Women.” Two top 10′s in our very first snowshoe race. Not bad. Oh, and I beat Chelsea. First time ever.
November 2011 (3)
Winter Hydration – you know you’re not getting enough…
Posted on November 19, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Check out this article from Nuun about winter hydration: http://nuunblog.com/2011/11/16/winter-hydration/ (function() { var s = document.createElement(‘SCRIPT’), s1 = document.getElementsByTagName(‘SCRIPT’)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = ‘http://widgets.digg.com/buttons.js’; s1.parentNode.insertBefore(s, s1); })(); . . . Bookmark this on Delicious
Posted on November 19, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Check out this article from Nuun about winter hydration: http://nuunblog.com/2011/11/16/winter-hydration/ (function() { var s = document.createElement(‘SCRIPT’), s1 = document.getElementsByTagName(‘SCRIPT’)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = ‘http://widgets.digg.com/buttons.js’; s1.parentNode.insertBefore(s, s1); })(); . . . Bookmark this on Delicious
Tentative 2012 BMA Schedule
Posted on November 18, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
See the November Newsletter for our 2012 schedule! http://www.bigmountainar.com/newsletters/2011/November/ (function() { var s = document.createElement(‘SCRIPT’), s1 = document.getElementsByTagName(‘SCRIPT’)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = ‘http://widgets.digg.com/buttons.js’; s1.parentNode.insertBefore(s, s1); })(); . . . Bookmark this on Delicious
Posted on November 18, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
See the November Newsletter for our 2012 schedule! http://www.bigmountainar.com/newsletters/2011/November/ (function() { var s = document.createElement(‘SCRIPT’), s1 = document.getElementsByTagName(‘SCRIPT’)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = ‘http://widgets.digg.com/buttons.js’; s1.parentNode.insertBefore(s, s1); })(); . . . Bookmark this on Delicious
BMA Blog Invitation
Posted on November 9, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
We finally got tired of all the rampant spam on the blog and closed it to unsolicited new users and comments. If you wish to be an author or make comments just send an email to [email protected] and we will be sure to make it happen. The blog will still be used similarly to before the closing to spammers for information sharing about BMA happenings. We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause.
- BMA
Posted on November 9, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
We finally got tired of all the rampant spam on the blog and closed it to unsolicited new users and comments. If you wish to be an author or make comments just send an email to [email protected] and we will be sure to make it happen. The blog will still be used similarly to before the closing to spammers for information sharing about BMA happenings. We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause.
- BMA
September 2011 (3)
Over the Edge Preliminary Results
Posted on September 20, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Over the Edge Preliminary results are now available.http://bigmountainar.com/docs/OvertheEdgeResults.pdf
We will be double and triple checking before publishing final results as well as adding split times.
Posted on September 20, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Over the Edge Preliminary results are now available.http://bigmountainar.com/docs/OvertheEdgeResults.pdf
We will be double and triple checking before publishing final results as well as adding split times.
Over the Edge Race Update!
Posted on September 11, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
http://www.bigmountainar.com/docs/OvertheEdgeRaceUpdate_1.pdf
Registered racers check it out for important info. Potential racers on the fence: learn more and sign up today! See you on September 17th.
Posted on September 11, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
http://www.bigmountainar.com/docs/OvertheEdgeRaceUpdate_1.pdf
Registered racers check it out for important info. Potential racers on the fence: learn more and sign up today! See you on September 17th.
Help Jennifer of Women’s Adventure Magazine with newbie AR Advice
Posted on September 10, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Our friend Jennifer Olson of Women’s Adventure Magazine is competing in Over the Edge Ar as a newbie with a friend. Help her out with some AR advice!
http://www.womensadventuremagazine.com/blog/newbie-adventure-racer-seeking-advice/
Posted on September 10, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Our friend Jennifer Olson of Women’s Adventure Magazine is competing in Over the Edge Ar as a newbie with a friend. Help her out with some AR advice!
http://www.womensadventuremagazine.com/blog/newbie-adventure-racer-seeking-advice/
August 2011 (3)
Free AR clinic with Over the Edge discount!
Posted on August 30, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Join BMA for a free Adventure Racing discussion/clinic at REI Boulder this Friday at 6:30PM! http://www.rei.com/event/29819/session/36986 (you must RSVP at this website) Attendees who also race the Over the Edge AR (current and new registrants) will get $5 off the race! http://bigmountainar.com/OverTheEdge2011.php
Posted on August 30, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Join BMA for a free Adventure Racing discussion/clinic at REI Boulder this Friday at 6:30PM! http://www.rei.com/event/29819/session/36986 (you must RSVP at this website) Attendees who also race the Over the Edge AR (current and new registrants) will get $5 off the race! http://bigmountainar.com/OverTheEdge2011.php
Rampart RAGE Split times, video, and FREE training event
Posted on August 9, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
The split times for Rampart RAGE are now available. Sorry it took so long.
https://spreadsheets.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AvEUuJKdqcqcdGpkUjFhNUR2U1FUU09zd1lTdl9jQVE&hl=en_US#gid=0
The Rampart RAGE video from the race is also done. Check it out!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_LBwKEs62Lo
Lastly, we have a BMARE event, AR training, and FREE ascension clinic in Colorado Springs coming up on Saturday August 20th. You’ll need to RSVP for the event. More info:
http://www.bigmountainar.com/bmare.php
Posted on August 9, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
The split times for Rampart RAGE are now available. Sorry it took so long.
https://spreadsheets.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AvEUuJKdqcqcdGpkUjFhNUR2U1FUU09zd1lTdl9jQVE&hl=en_US#gid=0
The Rampart RAGE video from the race is also done. Check it out!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_LBwKEs62Lo
Lastly, we have a BMARE event, AR training, and FREE ascension clinic in Colorado Springs coming up on Saturday August 20th. You’ll need to RSVP for the event. More info:
http://www.bigmountainar.com/bmare.php
A Special Story About the Winners of Rampart RAGEPosted on August 2, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Team Boom Boom Pow earned 1st place in the 12-14hr 3-4 coed division of Rampart RAGE. That’s impressive enough, but check out this story courtesy of Pikes Peak Sportsabout one of the members:
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/forum/topics/big-mountain-adventure-racing-?groupUrl=adventure&
Congrats Jeri and Boom Boom Pow!
Team Boom Boom Pow earned 1st place in the 12-14hr 3-4 coed division of Rampart RAGE. That’s impressive enough, but check out this story courtesy of Pikes Peak Sportsabout one of the members:
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/forum/topics/big-mountain-adventure-racing-?groupUrl=adventure&
Congrats Jeri and Boom Boom Pow!
July 2011 (6)
Rampart RAGE Race Write Up
Posted on July 27, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
July 16th, 2011 Forecast: 30% chance of thunderstorms…
They’d said the same thing every day for 2 weeks straight, and each of those days 30% had meant a 100% guarantee. But Saturday morning came (very early), and there was not a cloud in the sky. It was going to be a good day.
At 5:30am, the brave sport length racers lined up to race for 12-15 hours non-stop. After a quick recap of key rules, the racers were pumped up and ready. At 6am they took off on foot for a grueling 11 mile trail run for checkpoints 1-3.
Still in good spirits, the racers traded their running shoes for paddles at CP3 and had to pursue 5 paddling checkpoints. Teams did well on this leg, and were glad to give their feet a break. The phenomenal views of Pikes Peak over the water did a lot for the morale as well.
Back at the boat dock, the racers had more running staring at them. Racers chose what order to pursue the rest of the checkpoints in. Should we get the zip line now or later? Should we even try for that checkpoint? At what point should we do the special challenge? What is the special challenge?! Choice within the race is definitely what separates adventure racing from so many other sports.
Once at the zip line team mates had to don climbing harnesses, fly across a finger of the lake, and feel the wind in their hair. Many racers thought the zip line to be the highlight of the race, and said they would have done it over and over again….had there not been a race to win! A new adventure racing convert had this to say: “who can resist a race that includes a zipline?!?!”
While collecting a few more checkpoints, the racers had to run or trek to the tops of the surrounding mountains to the special challenge, where they found slingshots and milk jugs awaiting them. All team members had 4 chances each to try to hit the milk jug with their rock.
If the teams didn’t make their shots, they had to carry their team mate down the road 100 meters and back. -A pricey cost of energy since they were only about halfway through the race at this point.
After paying their debts at the slingshot station, they had to run down Shubarth trail to the bike drop where they got the coordinates of 17 new biking checkpoints……Uggg….and they smattered the map like a Dalmatian’s spots cover his fur! Racers gulped and pressed on like gladiators for the most epic, but also the most rewarding portion of the race. Tired racers were wise to strategically choose which checkpoints to attain on this leg.
During the biking leg, the racers could enjoy views of Pikes Peak, Rampart Reservoir, the Airforce Academy, Denver, and Colorado Springs. They’d pass through meadows, pass by reservoirs, zip up and down single & double track to the bottom and tops of mountains, and climb annoyingly short but steep hill climbs. They’d pass by flowered meadows with butterflies, find a cool shelter that would tempt them to stay and hangout in the shady cool, and then descend back to the reservoir trail for some rewarding single-track. At this point, teams were praying for rain to escape the summer day’s heat, and refill their water bottles….but they didn’t get it. The scorching sun shined on.
The racers headed back toward the finish line, but before they could finish, they had to complete a Tyrolean traverse. Racers were attached to a rope, suspended above the ground, and had to pull themselves from one side of the meadow to the other. A Tyrolean traverse is difficult when you’re fresh….at this point in the race, it was nearly impossible. But once again, the racers astounded us, and victoriously completed this last challenge before crossing the finish line.
Dusty-faced and bloody kneed but with smileys on their faces, the sport length racers crossed the finish line victoriously; able to say they survived and conquered the Rampart Rage.
At 9am the same morning while the sport racers were on the water, the 5-8hr sprint racers followed the sport racer’s foot prints and overlaid them with bike tracks. The sprint racers got to have fun on the rollercoaster single-track that circumnavigates the reservoir on the way to the boat drop.
The sprint racers then got to enjoy the same boating navigation and lake views of Pikes that the 12 hour did….except with an extra time-crunch. All racers had to be off the lake by noon or else those teams would be disqualified. In a frenzy, all teams made it, with the last team making it off at 11:57….whew!
Once finished with the boating leg, it was time to don running shoes and complete the zip line then find as many checkpoints as possible. Checkpoints were hidden on the very tops of boulders, under boulders, on a random knoll, in a reentrant and along a trail bend. Racers sleuthed their way to these and then to the same special challenge that the 12 hour had to complete. If a team failed to hit the slingshot target, racers wished they’d chosen tinier teammates. And they, too, were required to haul their teammate 100 yards down the trail and back.
Following the slingshot challenge, racers ran back downhill to the lake to pick up their bikes and ride the same single-track all the way back to the campground….for many a little less energetically than the first time.
Teams raced back to the finish in order to make the cutoff time. After all, every minute late after cutoff, counted as 10 minutes of penalty time, which can really kill a great race time.
At the finish line all teams got to enjoy Brisket sandwiches from Phil’s BBQ and brews from Phantom Canyon Brewery. Once the results were in, racers won prizes from Win Insurance Agency, Whole Foods, Nathan Packs, The Trailhead, Planet Bike, and Polar Bottle. Racers then vied for raffle prizes from all of our wonderful sponsors. Kathleen from Healing Touch Massage was also there to help racers their reduce their soreness from a long day of fun!
The BMARE Challenge (Big Mountain Adventure Racing for the Environment) also had some stiff competition. Racers collected all sorts of odd trash, and then creatively displayed and named their “trashy art.” Teams who collected the most trash and teams who won the creativity challenge cleaned up; each team member winning a pair of socks from SOLE, a visor from GoLite, and a coffee mug from PlanetHeal.com.
Overall, the race was a huge success. And in the words of Jerry Badders of Team Boom Boom Pow, the 3-person coed sport course winners, it was a, “tough, fun, tough, awesome, tough, scenic tough race.”
See you next year on the Rampart and also in September for our last race of 2011!
Posted on July 27, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
July 16th, 2011 Forecast: 30% chance of thunderstorms…
They’d said the same thing every day for 2 weeks straight, and each of those days 30% had meant a 100% guarantee. But Saturday morning came (very early), and there was not a cloud in the sky. It was going to be a good day.
At 5:30am, the brave sport length racers lined up to race for 12-15 hours non-stop. After a quick recap of key rules, the racers were pumped up and ready. At 6am they took off on foot for a grueling 11 mile trail run for checkpoints 1-3.
Still in good spirits, the racers traded their running shoes for paddles at CP3 and had to pursue 5 paddling checkpoints. Teams did well on this leg, and were glad to give their feet a break. The phenomenal views of Pikes Peak over the water did a lot for the morale as well.
Back at the boat dock, the racers had more running staring at them. Racers chose what order to pursue the rest of the checkpoints in. Should we get the zip line now or later? Should we even try for that checkpoint? At what point should we do the special challenge? What is the special challenge?! Choice within the race is definitely what separates adventure racing from so many other sports.
Once at the zip line team mates had to don climbing harnesses, fly across a finger of the lake, and feel the wind in their hair. Many racers thought the zip line to be the highlight of the race, and said they would have done it over and over again….had there not been a race to win! A new adventure racing convert had this to say: “who can resist a race that includes a zipline?!?!”
While collecting a few more checkpoints, the racers had to run or trek to the tops of the surrounding mountains to the special challenge, where they found slingshots and milk jugs awaiting them. All team members had 4 chances each to try to hit the milk jug with their rock.
If the teams didn’t make their shots, they had to carry their team mate down the road 100 meters and back. -A pricey cost of energy since they were only about halfway through the race at this point.
After paying their debts at the slingshot station, they had to run down Shubarth trail to the bike drop where they got the coordinates of 17 new biking checkpoints……Uggg….and they smattered the map like a Dalmatian’s spots cover his fur! Racers gulped and pressed on like gladiators for the most epic, but also the most rewarding portion of the race. Tired racers were wise to strategically choose which checkpoints to attain on this leg.
During the biking leg, the racers could enjoy views of Pikes Peak, Rampart Reservoir, the Airforce Academy, Denver, and Colorado Springs. They’d pass through meadows, pass by reservoirs, zip up and down single & double track to the bottom and tops of mountains, and climb annoyingly short but steep hill climbs. They’d pass by flowered meadows with butterflies, find a cool shelter that would tempt them to stay and hangout in the shady cool, and then descend back to the reservoir trail for some rewarding single-track. At this point, teams were praying for rain to escape the summer day’s heat, and refill their water bottles….but they didn’t get it. The scorching sun shined on.
The racers headed back toward the finish line, but before they could finish, they had to complete a Tyrolean traverse. Racers were attached to a rope, suspended above the ground, and had to pull themselves from one side of the meadow to the other. A Tyrolean traverse is difficult when you’re fresh….at this point in the race, it was nearly impossible. But once again, the racers astounded us, and victoriously completed this last challenge before crossing the finish line.
Dusty-faced and bloody kneed but with smileys on their faces, the sport length racers crossed the finish line victoriously; able to say they survived and conquered the Rampart Rage.
At 9am the same morning while the sport racers were on the water, the 5-8hr sprint racers followed the sport racer’s foot prints and overlaid them with bike tracks. The sprint racers got to have fun on the rollercoaster single-track that circumnavigates the reservoir on the way to the boat drop.
The sprint racers then got to enjoy the same boating navigation and lake views of Pikes that the 12 hour did….except with an extra time-crunch. All racers had to be off the lake by noon or else those teams would be disqualified. In a frenzy, all teams made it, with the last team making it off at 11:57….whew!
Once finished with the boating leg, it was time to don running shoes and complete the zip line then find as many checkpoints as possible. Checkpoints were hidden on the very tops of boulders, under boulders, on a random knoll, in a reentrant and along a trail bend. Racers sleuthed their way to these and then to the same special challenge that the 12 hour had to complete. If a team failed to hit the slingshot target, racers wished they’d chosen tinier teammates. And they, too, were required to haul their teammate 100 yards down the trail and back.
Following the slingshot challenge, racers ran back downhill to the lake to pick up their bikes and ride the same single-track all the way back to the campground….for many a little less energetically than the first time.
Teams raced back to the finish in order to make the cutoff time. After all, every minute late after cutoff, counted as 10 minutes of penalty time, which can really kill a great race time.
At the finish line all teams got to enjoy Brisket sandwiches from Phil’s BBQ and brews from Phantom Canyon Brewery. Once the results were in, racers won prizes from Win Insurance Agency, Whole Foods, Nathan Packs, The Trailhead, Planet Bike, and Polar Bottle. Racers then vied for raffle prizes from all of our wonderful sponsors. Kathleen from Healing Touch Massage was also there to help racers their reduce their soreness from a long day of fun!
The BMARE Challenge (Big Mountain Adventure Racing for the Environment) also had some stiff competition. Racers collected all sorts of odd trash, and then creatively displayed and named their “trashy art.” Teams who collected the most trash and teams who won the creativity challenge cleaned up; each team member winning a pair of socks from SOLE, a visor from GoLite, and a coffee mug from PlanetHeal.com.
Overall, the race was a huge success. And in the words of Jerry Badders of Team Boom Boom Pow, the 3-person coed sport course winners, it was a, “tough, fun, tough, awesome, tough, scenic tough race.”
See you next year on the Rampart and also in September for our last race of 2011!
Rampart Rage Media
Posted on July 27, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Newspaper Articles:
http://www.outtherecolorado.com/blogs/racers-find-adventure-riding-running-paddling-in-the-mountains.html (Colorado Springs Gazette, July 17th in the Local Section)
Professional Pictures for Purchase:
http://robertvillena.zenfolio.com/p638556468
Pictures/videos:
https://picasaweb.google.com/Mike.R.Lester/RampartRagePics (you can add your own photos to this album for all to see. if you have issues please email your photos to [email protected])
http://www.outtherecolorado.com/photos/102-gazette-dena/photo.html?albumid=1926#photoid=44949
http://www.outtherecolorado.com/photos/102-gazette-dena/photo.html?albumid=1927#photoid=44978
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.191453920911329.48995.180678211988900
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2217140477158.129631.1507008415
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150326561720984.392203.599820983
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2292166030166.2137964.1429470141
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150316757395664.380841.550900663
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150231918947215.319316.700967214
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150317270010589.382178.735650588&
Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2L3_M4GPws
Posted on July 27, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Newspaper Articles:
http://www.outtherecolorado.com/blogs/racers-find-adventure-riding-running-paddling-in-the-mountains.html (Colorado Springs Gazette, July 17th in the Local Section)
Professional Pictures for Purchase:
http://robertvillena.zenfolio.com/p638556468
Pictures/videos:
https://picasaweb.google.com/Mike.R.Lester/RampartRagePics (you can add your own photos to this album for all to see. if you have issues please email your photos to [email protected])
http://www.outtherecolorado.com/photos/102-gazette-dena/photo.html?albumid=1926#photoid=44949
http://www.outtherecolorado.com/photos/102-gazette-dena/photo.html?albumid=1927#photoid=44978
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.191453920911329.48995.180678211988900
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2217140477158.129631.1507008415
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150326561720984.392203.599820983
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2292166030166.2137964.1429470141
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150316757395664.380841.550900663
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150231918947215.319316.700967214
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150317270010589.382178.735650588&
Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2L3_M4GPws
Great job racers!
Posted on July 18, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
You all really impressed us this weekend. Fantastic job everyone! Please post pictures of your adventure so we can all see the parts we missed!
Posted on July 18, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
You all really impressed us this weekend. Fantastic job everyone! Please post pictures of your adventure so we can all see the parts we missed!
Campers: don’t forget your warmer stuff
Posted on July 15, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
If you are camping Friday night or any night this weekend, don’t forget some warmer gear. It got pretty chilly up here last night.
Posted on July 15, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
If you are camping Friday night or any night this weekend, don’t forget some warmer gear. It got pretty chilly up here last night.
Don’t run off, now!
Posted on July 14, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
Racers, don’t forget: After each race finish time, we’ll have food and drinks, and of course, some sweet prizes and raffles to give away to racers and volunteers!
Posted on July 14, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
Racers, don’t forget: After each race finish time, we’ll have food and drinks, and of course, some sweet prizes and raffles to give away to racers and volunteers!
Rampart Rage Registration closes on Sunday at Midnight!
Posted on July 8, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Do it! :) http://www.bigmountainar.com/RampartRageAR2011.php Map now updated with Iowa and Illinois! (function() { var s = document.createElement(‘SCRIPT’), s1 = document.getElementsByTagName(‘SCRIPT’)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = ‘http://widgets.digg.com/buttons.js’; s1.parentNode.insertBefore(s, s1); })(); . . . Bookmark this on Delicious
Posted on July 8, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Do it! :) http://www.bigmountainar.com/RampartRageAR2011.php Map now updated with Iowa and Illinois! (function() { var s = document.createElement(‘SCRIPT’), s1 = document.getElementsByTagName(‘SCRIPT’)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = ‘http://widgets.digg.com/buttons.js’; s1.parentNode.insertBefore(s, s1); })(); . . . Bookmark this on Delicious
June 2011 (4)
Rampart RAGE registration closing soon…Posted on June 30, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Our July 16th race is coming along very nicely. So far we have racers from 12 states joining us and we want you too! Help us fill out our map by coming out to have some fun with BMA.
Our July 16th race is coming along very nicely. So far we have racers from 12 states joining us and we want you too! Help us fill out our map by coming out to have some fun with BMA.
Get Ready for Rampart RAGE with 2 REI Clinics (Colorado Springs)
Posted on June 22, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Hey there Colorado – don’t let a map and compass or being a newbie to Adventure Racing scare you away from trying out the short course of Rampart RAGE… Two upcoming REI clinics can help you get prepared for a day of fun and adventure.
July 6th Map and Compass Basics
REI will cover the basics such as understanding map symbols, orienting the map and compass, declination adjustment, and reading terrain features. Participants are encouraged to bring their own compass. These classes are limited to the first 16 people to sign up. Register on-line, call customer service at 260-1455, or come into the store to register. The class will begin promptly at 6:00PM.
July 7th Adventure Racing in the Front Range
Come learn about all the fun you can have while adventure racing like paddling an inflatable kayak on a scenic mountain lake, dropping from a giant boulder on to a 300ft zipline, trekking through the forests amidst trees and rock formation, and mountain biking some of the most amazing single track trails that Colorado has to offer. So if you are into nature, camaraderie, fun and adventure, you are going to love what adventure racing has to offer, and Big Mountain Adventure would love to tell you about it. RSVP required. Reserve your spot today!
See you there!
Posted on June 22, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Hey there Colorado – don’t let a map and compass or being a newbie to Adventure Racing scare you away from trying out the short course of Rampart RAGE… Two upcoming REI clinics can help you get prepared for a day of fun and adventure.
July 6th Map and Compass Basics
REI will cover the basics such as understanding map symbols, orienting the map and compass, declination adjustment, and reading terrain features. Participants are encouraged to bring their own compass. These classes are limited to the first 16 people to sign up. Register on-line, call customer service at 260-1455, or come into the store to register. The class will begin promptly at 6:00PM.
July 7th Adventure Racing in the Front Range
Come learn about all the fun you can have while adventure racing like paddling an inflatable kayak on a scenic mountain lake, dropping from a giant boulder on to a 300ft zipline, trekking through the forests amidst trees and rock formation, and mountain biking some of the most amazing single track trails that Colorado has to offer. So if you are into nature, camaraderie, fun and adventure, you are going to love what adventure racing has to offer, and Big Mountain Adventure would love to tell you about it. RSVP required. Reserve your spot today!
See you there!
BMA in the Denver Examiner
Posted on June 22, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Check out our article:
http://www.examiner.com/running-in-denver/big-mountain-adventure-brings-adventure-racing-to-colorado-s-front-range
Hope to see you at Rampart RAGE on July 16th and our REI clinic at Colorado Springs on July 7th.
Posted on June 22, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Check out our article:
http://www.examiner.com/running-in-denver/big-mountain-adventure-brings-adventure-racing-to-colorado-s-front-range
Hope to see you at Rampart RAGE on July 16th and our REI clinic at Colorado Springs on July 7th.
Race Prizes!!!
Posted on June 17, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
Once again, there are some sweet prizes to be won at Rampart RAGE. 1st place winners of the 3-4 person coed division will each get a $100 gift certificate to Whole Foods! And 1st place winners of the 2 person coed and open divisions will each win an awesome Synergypack and bladder from Nathan! The Trailhead of Buena Vista has provided some awesome packages for the 3rd place winners of the 3-4 person coed division. And Planet Bike has supplied 2nd place for the 2 person coed & open divisions. The prize packages include bike lights, socks, and more…they’re definitely cool things every adventure racer needs! Yep, some great prizes to be won, indeed!
Posted on June 17, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
Once again, there are some sweet prizes to be won at Rampart RAGE. 1st place winners of the 3-4 person coed division will each get a $100 gift certificate to Whole Foods! And 1st place winners of the 2 person coed and open divisions will each win an awesome Synergypack and bladder from Nathan! The Trailhead of Buena Vista has provided some awesome packages for the 3rd place winners of the 3-4 person coed division. And Planet Bike has supplied 2nd place for the 2 person coed & open divisions. The prize packages include bike lights, socks, and more…they’re definitely cool things every adventure racer needs! Yep, some great prizes to be won, indeed!
May 2011 (2)
Win Insurance Agency
Posted on May 27, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
Okay racers, everyone knows accidents happen. Win Insurance Agency has been a huge asset to Big Mountain Adventure Racing in preparing for and producing our races. So, whether it be health, car, home, bike, boat or any other type of insurance you might need, try Win Insurance Agency. They’re awesome folks who will listen to you and work with you to try to find the best plan possible. Seriously. They’re great.
Posted on May 27, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
Okay racers, everyone knows accidents happen. Win Insurance Agency has been a huge asset to Big Mountain Adventure Racing in preparing for and producing our races. So, whether it be health, car, home, bike, boat or any other type of insurance you might need, try Win Insurance Agency. They’re awesome folks who will listen to you and work with you to try to find the best plan possible. Seriously. They’re great.
Big Mountain Adventure Racing wins First Place in Buena Vista!
Posted on May 17, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
What a great race! And after 20 hours of racing, Big Mountain Adventure Racing came up first! Great job team!!
Posted on May 17, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
What a great race! And after 20 hours of racing, Big Mountain Adventure Racing came up first! Great job team!!
April 2011 (21)
Rock2Rock Official ResultsPosted on April 27, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Thanks again to everyone who attended!
Solo FemaleRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Laurien Moes (153)5 h 43 min5 h 42 min2nd: Deborah Doyle (152)7 h 21 min7 h 20 min3rd: Baarbd (151)6 h 42 min8 h 24 min 30 sSolo MaleRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Ryan Ognibene (107)4 h 39 min4 h 39 min2nd: Bryan Caylor (103)5 h 14 min5 h 14 min3rd: Timothy David McNamara (109)5 h 42 min5 h 41 min4th: Jeff LaForce (101)5 h 44 min5 h 43 min5th: Ken Lotze (104)5 h 57 min5 h 57 min6th: Richard Wood (106)5 h 56 min6 h 11 min7th: Jonas Reynolds (102)6 h 05 min6 h 25 min8th: Dakata Thunder (105)6 h 51 min6 h 50 min9th: Vance Nixon (110)6 h 54 min7 h 08 min10th: Shane Spraggins (111)8 h 39 min9 h 57 min11th: Ben Wedeking (108)8 h 33 min10 h 58 min 30 s2 person CoedRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Who Plotted? (205)6 h 04 min6 h 00 min2nd: Team Timex7 h 20 min7 h 19 min 30 s3rd: KriznBlock (203)8 h 02 min8 h 03 min4th: Metke (204)7 h 55 min8 h 18 min5th: Dos Patos Locos (207)7 h 53 min8 h 18 min 30 s6th: Shake ‘n’ Bake (206)8 h 50 min9 h 07 min7th: MuffinTops (208)9 h 20 min12 h 46 min2 person OpenRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Beer Nuts (254)5 h 55 min5 h 55 min2nd: Squirrel Master (258)6 h 32 min6 h 29 min3rd: Just Finish (251)6 h 53 min6 h 40 min 30 s4th: Slaughter Me Nicely (255)6 h 58 min7 h 40 min5th: Weedarzee (257)8 h 20 min8 h 7 min6th: Cruizer Team (259)6 h 50 min8 h 51 min 30 s7th: COGs (256)8 h 28 min9 h 22 min8th: Team Muscle Memory (253)7 h 37 min9 h 23 min9th: Milky Mamas (252)6 h 22 min9 h 33 min3-4 CoedRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Nord Vrai (356)5 h 32 min5 h 32 min2nd: Spider Monkeys (304)6 h 33 min6 h 33 min3rd: CrossFit 5280 (353)7 h 16 min7 h 07 min4th: Pikes Peak Adrenaline (302)6 h 53 min7 h 08 min5th: Two outties and an innie (309)6 h 26 min7 h 09 min 30 s6th: TSSAR (355)7 h 18 min7 h 10 min7th: Compensating for Benefits (351)8 h 40 min8 h 23 min 30 s8th: Bi-WINNING!!! (352)8 h 6 min9 h 03 min 30 s9th: 5280 Too (354)7 h 24 min9 h 09 min 30 s10th: Whose Idea? (303)8 h 45 min9 h 44 min3 OpenRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: A priest and a Rabbie (308male)5 h 45 min5 h 45 min2nd: Chic Force (307female)6 h 43 min8 h 25 min 30 s3rd: Awesome (306male)8 h 31 min8 h 53 min 30 s4th: Magnanimous (301male)7 h 28 min8 h 53 min 30 s4+ OpenRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Last But Not Least (402)6 h 51 min6 h 51 min2nd: Dragons (401)8 h 04 min7 h 43 min 30 s
Thanks again to everyone who attended!
Solo FemaleRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Laurien Moes (153)5 h 43 min5 h 42 min2nd: Deborah Doyle (152)7 h 21 min7 h 20 min3rd: Baarbd (151)6 h 42 min8 h 24 min 30 sSolo MaleRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Ryan Ognibene (107)4 h 39 min4 h 39 min2nd: Bryan Caylor (103)5 h 14 min5 h 14 min3rd: Timothy David McNamara (109)5 h 42 min5 h 41 min4th: Jeff LaForce (101)5 h 44 min5 h 43 min5th: Ken Lotze (104)5 h 57 min5 h 57 min6th: Richard Wood (106)5 h 56 min6 h 11 min7th: Jonas Reynolds (102)6 h 05 min6 h 25 min8th: Dakata Thunder (105)6 h 51 min6 h 50 min9th: Vance Nixon (110)6 h 54 min7 h 08 min10th: Shane Spraggins (111)8 h 39 min9 h 57 min11th: Ben Wedeking (108)8 h 33 min10 h 58 min 30 s2 person CoedRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Who Plotted? (205)6 h 04 min6 h 00 min2nd: Team Timex7 h 20 min7 h 19 min 30 s3rd: KriznBlock (203)8 h 02 min8 h 03 min4th: Metke (204)7 h 55 min8 h 18 min5th: Dos Patos Locos (207)7 h 53 min8 h 18 min 30 s6th: Shake ‘n’ Bake (206)8 h 50 min9 h 07 min7th: MuffinTops (208)9 h 20 min12 h 46 min2 person OpenRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Beer Nuts (254)5 h 55 min5 h 55 min2nd: Squirrel Master (258)6 h 32 min6 h 29 min3rd: Just Finish (251)6 h 53 min6 h 40 min 30 s4th: Slaughter Me Nicely (255)6 h 58 min7 h 40 min5th: Weedarzee (257)8 h 20 min8 h 7 min6th: Cruizer Team (259)6 h 50 min8 h 51 min 30 s7th: COGs (256)8 h 28 min9 h 22 min8th: Team Muscle Memory (253)7 h 37 min9 h 23 min9th: Milky Mamas (252)6 h 22 min9 h 33 min3-4 CoedRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Nord Vrai (356)5 h 32 min5 h 32 min2nd: Spider Monkeys (304)6 h 33 min6 h 33 min3rd: CrossFit 5280 (353)7 h 16 min7 h 07 min4th: Pikes Peak Adrenaline (302)6 h 53 min7 h 08 min5th: Two outties and an innie (309)6 h 26 min7 h 09 min 30 s6th: TSSAR (355)7 h 18 min7 h 10 min7th: Compensating for Benefits (351)8 h 40 min8 h 23 min 30 s8th: Bi-WINNING!!! (352)8 h 6 min9 h 03 min 30 s9th: 5280 Too (354)7 h 24 min9 h 09 min 30 s10th: Whose Idea? (303)8 h 45 min9 h 44 min3 OpenRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: A priest and a Rabbie (308male)5 h 45 min5 h 45 min2nd: Chic Force (307female)6 h 43 min8 h 25 min 30 s3rd: Awesome (306male)8 h 31 min8 h 53 min 30 s4th: Magnanimous (301male)7 h 28 min8 h 53 min 30 s4+ OpenRaw TimeOfficial Time (Time + Penalties + refunded time spent in ropes line)1st: Last But Not Least (402)6 h 51 min6 h 51 min2nd: Dragons (401)8 h 04 min7 h 43 min 30 s
Front Range Adventure Enthusiasts Tackle the Rock2Rock Adventure RacePosted on April 27, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
(Photos coming soon!) Teams and solo adventure racers gathered on what was a day of unknown weather to compete in the Rock2Rock Adventure race from Monument, CO to Colorado Springs. The racers knew it would be a chilly Spring day, but no one knew whether to expect rain, snow, or sunshine. Throughout the day they experienced all in addition to some treacherous sleet and wind. However, the smiles, laughs, and camaraderie that maintained showed that the weather didn’t slow the racers’ adventurous spirit.
The event started bright and early (well, overcast and early anyway) at 6AM at the Colorado Sports Center in Monument. After a pre-race meeting racers began practicing for 2 special challenges that would determine their starting positions for the race: a rock climbing wall traverse and an ice hockey goal challenge. The ice hockey challenge invited racers out on the ice to complete 2 or more out of 4 attempts to land a goal. The rock climbing traverse challenged racers to use their forearm muscles to complete a 40ft traverse. Some racers elected for some last minute orienteering instruction before completing the challenges.
The course started between 9 and 9:40AM with 3 heats to spread out racers on the Santa Fe Trail. Racers headed south through the beautiful Air Force Academy stopping for their first checkpoint at the south exit gate leading to Woodmen road. While heading down the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail, some racers elected to stop at Criterium Bike Shop to resolve some bike issues. Due to a serious malfunction – one racer had to even rent a new bike to continue on the course!
The second checkpoint signified the turn to one of the highlights of the race – the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) land navigation and ropes challenges. After a bike drop transition area, including a check for safety gear needed for ropes challenges, racers tested out their map and compass skills in the breathtaking UCCS owned land adjacent to Pulpit Rock Park. This off trail course had racers climbing up and down the ridges and valleys in this not-widely known area. Even the race organizers were excited to discover new awesome trails in this area before planning the race. Amidst the challenging navigation, racers had to decide which one of two ropes challenges to complete in this area: a cable zipline or a rappel. The rappel was the faster choice for many competitive racers due to its favorable placement on the course, but the zipline was the undisputed adrenaline booster for many racers. The screaming fast zipline gave the sense of flying to racers who chose this 500ft challenge from the top of a ridge down into a valley. Some teams enjoyed it so much they hiked back uphill to do the zipline twice. Some teams even chose to do both the zipline and the rappel, highlighting one of the most important aspects of adventure racing – having fun!
Afterwards, racers jumped back on their bikes and continued heading south on the Pikes Peak Greenway trail to Sondermannn Park for a foot orienteering course. This course used a Rocky Mountain Orienteering Club map and had racers following topographical clues to gain checkpoints to finish the course and get back on their bikes. Sometime during this transition Team Muffin Tops was unlucky enough to acquire goat head thorns in their bike tires. Eventually, all four of Muffin Tops’ tires popped, leading to a long push-bike trip to a bike shop to obtain more tubes…this time attempting to try the ones with the green jelly inside.
The next stop was at Monument Valley Park for special challenges that exercised racers’ balance, coordination, and ability to work together. Teams had to choose two of three challenges in which to prevail: a slack line, a ropes descent to and ascent from Fountain Creek, and a raised checkpoint in a tree. The slack line is nylon webbing tensioned between two anchor points similar to a tight rope, except that it is not as tight and is more like a skinny trampoline. While a balance challenge about 30 miles into the race was somewhat daunting, many racers completed and enjoyed this challenge! The ropes ascent and descent gave a bit up upper body muscle challenge to slightly balance out the long miles of leg work, while the raised checkpoint in a tree forced teams to work together. There was no possibility of climbing the tree so racers were on top of each others’ shoulders or standing on interlaced hands to hoist their teammate to reach the checkpoint.
Upon completion of the Monument challenges the final course leg awaited racers which was, for some, the most difficult section of the course. Fatigued racers tackled orienteering while biking at Bear Creek Park. An established trail system provided plenty of opportunity for route finding choices to pedal their way to the checkpoints. Racers’ reward for their perseverance was some nice double track and single track mountain biking on what was otherwise a mostly urban course.
After biking in the shadows of Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain, racers headed to the finish, where the final challenge waited racers: a 43ft indoor rock climb at the CityRock climbing gym in order to stop the race clock. Racers used their last bit of muscle reserves and conquered the final challenge that stood in the way of snagging some beer and brats! Phantom Canyon Brewery graciously provided the well deserved post race beer for the racers and the amazing Whole Foods brought and prepared the brats. The post race party included prizes for race winners and a swag raffle for all racers. All in all it was an incredibly fun time with a great community of racers!
The Big Mountain Adventure Racing for the Environment (BMARE) competition was also well received. Racers collected about 6 full trash bags worth of trash and a whole box of recyclables. Team Milky Mamas took first place with the most amount of trash collected by weight and Team Nord Vrai took second place with the most creative display of trash with their themed ‘vices’ trash collected: poker chips, cigarette packs, golf balls, and empty beer bottles.
The race attracted numerous first time adventure racers which helped reach one of Big Mountain Adventure’s goals of introducing this fun sport to new people. Veteran teams and racers came as well, placing some impressive finishing times! The race included a large number of local racers, as well as racers representing 5 different states. Course times ranged from 4:39 to 9:20. Big Mountain Adventure received a gamut of positive feedback from racers. The common themes were appreciation of organization, variety in the race, and course design. Thanks everyone! We really enjoyed putting on the race and hope to provide our community of racers with fun and challenging races to come. We also hope to promote the use of our beautiful parks and trails in an environmentally friendly manner.
Thanks to all the racers and volunteers who made the event happen. And BIG congratulations to all for showing your enthusiasm and amazing endurance, especially through the grueling weather. We certainly head some hearty and strong racers…the snow, bike malfunctions, map oversights, getting lost and other mishaps did not deter any of the racers from finishing the course. There were winners with the fastest times, and there those un-announced winners too, who despite pushing bikes, getting lost, and other such mishaps never gave up and finished the course. Awesome!! We hope we’ll see you again at Rampart RAGE on July 16th!
Big Mountain Adventure
Media:
Pictures:
Robert Villena Photography
http://rvphoto.zenfolio.com/
Pikes Peak Sports Adventure Racing Group (Join today!!!)
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/photo/albums/rock2rock-adventure-race
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/photo/albums/rock2rock-adventure-race-1
Gazette/OutThereColorado:
http://gazettephoto.mycapture.com/mycapture/enlarge.asp?image=35381571&event=1233252&CategoryID=62011&Slideshow=Stop#Image
Videos:
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/video/rock2rock-zip-line
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/video/rock2rock-adventure-race-start
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/video/rock2rock-adventure-race
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/video/rock2rock-winner-ryan
News Stories:
OutThereColorado:
http://networkedblogs.com/h1Ppy
The Gazette:
Sunday April 24th Front page of the newspaper, front page of the sports section, rear page of the sports section!
Race Winners:
3-4 Coed
1st Nord Vrai 5:32
2nd Spider Monkeys 6:33
3rd Crossfit 5280 7:07
2 Coed
1st Who Plotted 6:00
2nd Team Timex 7:20
2 Open
1st Beer Nuts 5:55
2nd Milky Mamas 5:58
Solo Male
1st Ryan Ognibene 4:39
Solo Female
1st Laurien Moes 5:42
4 Open
1st Last but not Least 6:51
(Photos coming soon!) Teams and solo adventure racers gathered on what was a day of unknown weather to compete in the Rock2Rock Adventure race from Monument, CO to Colorado Springs. The racers knew it would be a chilly Spring day, but no one knew whether to expect rain, snow, or sunshine. Throughout the day they experienced all in addition to some treacherous sleet and wind. However, the smiles, laughs, and camaraderie that maintained showed that the weather didn’t slow the racers’ adventurous spirit.
The event started bright and early (well, overcast and early anyway) at 6AM at the Colorado Sports Center in Monument. After a pre-race meeting racers began practicing for 2 special challenges that would determine their starting positions for the race: a rock climbing wall traverse and an ice hockey goal challenge. The ice hockey challenge invited racers out on the ice to complete 2 or more out of 4 attempts to land a goal. The rock climbing traverse challenged racers to use their forearm muscles to complete a 40ft traverse. Some racers elected for some last minute orienteering instruction before completing the challenges.
The course started between 9 and 9:40AM with 3 heats to spread out racers on the Santa Fe Trail. Racers headed south through the beautiful Air Force Academy stopping for their first checkpoint at the south exit gate leading to Woodmen road. While heading down the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail, some racers elected to stop at Criterium Bike Shop to resolve some bike issues. Due to a serious malfunction – one racer had to even rent a new bike to continue on the course!
The second checkpoint signified the turn to one of the highlights of the race – the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) land navigation and ropes challenges. After a bike drop transition area, including a check for safety gear needed for ropes challenges, racers tested out their map and compass skills in the breathtaking UCCS owned land adjacent to Pulpit Rock Park. This off trail course had racers climbing up and down the ridges and valleys in this not-widely known area. Even the race organizers were excited to discover new awesome trails in this area before planning the race. Amidst the challenging navigation, racers had to decide which one of two ropes challenges to complete in this area: a cable zipline or a rappel. The rappel was the faster choice for many competitive racers due to its favorable placement on the course, but the zipline was the undisputed adrenaline booster for many racers. The screaming fast zipline gave the sense of flying to racers who chose this 500ft challenge from the top of a ridge down into a valley. Some teams enjoyed it so much they hiked back uphill to do the zipline twice. Some teams even chose to do both the zipline and the rappel, highlighting one of the most important aspects of adventure racing – having fun!
Afterwards, racers jumped back on their bikes and continued heading south on the Pikes Peak Greenway trail to Sondermannn Park for a foot orienteering course. This course used a Rocky Mountain Orienteering Club map and had racers following topographical clues to gain checkpoints to finish the course and get back on their bikes. Sometime during this transition Team Muffin Tops was unlucky enough to acquire goat head thorns in their bike tires. Eventually, all four of Muffin Tops’ tires popped, leading to a long push-bike trip to a bike shop to obtain more tubes…this time attempting to try the ones with the green jelly inside.
The next stop was at Monument Valley Park for special challenges that exercised racers’ balance, coordination, and ability to work together. Teams had to choose two of three challenges in which to prevail: a slack line, a ropes descent to and ascent from Fountain Creek, and a raised checkpoint in a tree. The slack line is nylon webbing tensioned between two anchor points similar to a tight rope, except that it is not as tight and is more like a skinny trampoline. While a balance challenge about 30 miles into the race was somewhat daunting, many racers completed and enjoyed this challenge! The ropes ascent and descent gave a bit up upper body muscle challenge to slightly balance out the long miles of leg work, while the raised checkpoint in a tree forced teams to work together. There was no possibility of climbing the tree so racers were on top of each others’ shoulders or standing on interlaced hands to hoist their teammate to reach the checkpoint.
Upon completion of the Monument challenges the final course leg awaited racers which was, for some, the most difficult section of the course. Fatigued racers tackled orienteering while biking at Bear Creek Park. An established trail system provided plenty of opportunity for route finding choices to pedal their way to the checkpoints. Racers’ reward for their perseverance was some nice double track and single track mountain biking on what was otherwise a mostly urban course.
After biking in the shadows of Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain, racers headed to the finish, where the final challenge waited racers: a 43ft indoor rock climb at the CityRock climbing gym in order to stop the race clock. Racers used their last bit of muscle reserves and conquered the final challenge that stood in the way of snagging some beer and brats! Phantom Canyon Brewery graciously provided the well deserved post race beer for the racers and the amazing Whole Foods brought and prepared the brats. The post race party included prizes for race winners and a swag raffle for all racers. All in all it was an incredibly fun time with a great community of racers!
The Big Mountain Adventure Racing for the Environment (BMARE) competition was also well received. Racers collected about 6 full trash bags worth of trash and a whole box of recyclables. Team Milky Mamas took first place with the most amount of trash collected by weight and Team Nord Vrai took second place with the most creative display of trash with their themed ‘vices’ trash collected: poker chips, cigarette packs, golf balls, and empty beer bottles.
The race attracted numerous first time adventure racers which helped reach one of Big Mountain Adventure’s goals of introducing this fun sport to new people. Veteran teams and racers came as well, placing some impressive finishing times! The race included a large number of local racers, as well as racers representing 5 different states. Course times ranged from 4:39 to 9:20. Big Mountain Adventure received a gamut of positive feedback from racers. The common themes were appreciation of organization, variety in the race, and course design. Thanks everyone! We really enjoyed putting on the race and hope to provide our community of racers with fun and challenging races to come. We also hope to promote the use of our beautiful parks and trails in an environmentally friendly manner.
Thanks to all the racers and volunteers who made the event happen. And BIG congratulations to all for showing your enthusiasm and amazing endurance, especially through the grueling weather. We certainly head some hearty and strong racers…the snow, bike malfunctions, map oversights, getting lost and other mishaps did not deter any of the racers from finishing the course. There were winners with the fastest times, and there those un-announced winners too, who despite pushing bikes, getting lost, and other such mishaps never gave up and finished the course. Awesome!! We hope we’ll see you again at Rampart RAGE on July 16th!
Big Mountain Adventure
Media:
Pictures:
Robert Villena Photography
http://rvphoto.zenfolio.com/
Pikes Peak Sports Adventure Racing Group (Join today!!!)
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/photo/albums/rock2rock-adventure-race
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/photo/albums/rock2rock-adventure-race-1
Gazette/OutThereColorado:
http://gazettephoto.mycapture.com/mycapture/enlarge.asp?image=35381571&event=1233252&CategoryID=62011&Slideshow=Stop#Image
Videos:
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/video/rock2rock-zip-line
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/video/rock2rock-adventure-race-start
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/video/rock2rock-adventure-race
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/video/rock2rock-winner-ryan
News Stories:
OutThereColorado:
http://networkedblogs.com/h1Ppy
The Gazette:
Sunday April 24th Front page of the newspaper, front page of the sports section, rear page of the sports section!
Race Winners:
3-4 Coed
1st Nord Vrai 5:32
2nd Spider Monkeys 6:33
3rd Crossfit 5280 7:07
2 Coed
1st Who Plotted 6:00
2nd Team Timex 7:20
2 Open
1st Beer Nuts 5:55
2nd Milky Mamas 5:58
Solo Male
1st Ryan Ognibene 4:39
Solo Female
1st Laurien Moes 5:42
4 Open
1st Last but not Least 6:51
Rock2Rock (Unnoficial) Results!Posted on April 24, 2011 by Cami Heaps
***not official***
We are working on verifying all times and will have final results soon.
Solo Female:
1st – #153, Laurien Moes – 5:42
2nd – #152, Deborah Doyle – 7:20
3rd – #151, Baarbd – 8:24:30
Solo Male:
1st – #107, Ryan Ognibene – 4:39
2nd – #103, Bryan Caylor – 5:14
3rd – #109, Timothy David McNamara – 5:41
4th – #101, Joseph Parris – 5:43
5th – #104, Ken Lotze – 5:57
6th – #106, Richard Wood – 6:11
7th – #102, Jonas Reynolds – 6:25
8th – #105, Dakata Thunder – 6:50
9th – #110, Vance Nixon – 7:09
10th – #111, Shane Spraggins – 9:57
11th – #108, Ben Wedeking – 10:58:30
2 Co-Ed:
1st – #205, Who Plotted – 6:00
2nd – #202, Team Timex – 7:19:30
3rd – #204, Metke – 7:38 (time/placement will change soon)
4th – #203, KriznBlock – 8:03
5th – #207, Dos Patos Locos – 8:18:30 (time/placement will change soon)
6th – #206, Shake’n'Bake – 9:07
7th – #208, Muffin Tops – time coming soon
2 Open:
1st – #254, Beer Nuts – 5:55
2nd – #252, Milky Mamas – 5:58
3rd – #258, Squirrel Master – 6:29
4th – #251, Just Finish – 7:40:30
5th – #255, Slaughter Me Nicely – 7:40
6th – #257, Weedarzee – 8:07
7th – #259, Cruizer Team – 9:51:30
8th – #253, Team Muscle Memory – 9:23
9th – #256, COGs – 9:52
3-4 Co-Ed: (coed and open will be separated out soon)
1st – #356, Nord Vrai – 5:32
2nd – #308, A Priest and a Rabbi walk into a Bar… – 5:44
3rd – #304, Spider Monkeys – 6:33
4th – #307, Chic Force – 6:40:30
5th – #302, Pikes Peak Adrenaline – 7:08
6th – #353, CrossFit 5280 – 7:07
7th – #309, Two Outties and an Innie – 7:09:30
8th – #355, TSSAR – 7:10
9th – #351, Compensating for Benefits – 8:23:30
10th – #306, Awesome – 8:53:30
11th – #352, BI-WINNING! – 9:03:30
12th – #354, 5280 Too – 9:09:30
13th – #303, Whose Idea? – 9:44
14th – #301, Magnamimous – 12:34:30
4+ Open:
1st – #402, Last But Not Least – 6:51
2nd – #402, Dragons – 7:43:30
BMARE competition:
1st (most trash by weight): Milky Mamas
2nd (most creative display of trash): Nord Vrai
You guys were AWESOME!! Hope to see you for the next race…!
***not official***
We are working on verifying all times and will have final results soon.
Solo Female:
1st – #153, Laurien Moes – 5:42
2nd – #152, Deborah Doyle – 7:20
3rd – #151, Baarbd – 8:24:30
Solo Male:
1st – #107, Ryan Ognibene – 4:39
2nd – #103, Bryan Caylor – 5:14
3rd – #109, Timothy David McNamara – 5:41
4th – #101, Joseph Parris – 5:43
5th – #104, Ken Lotze – 5:57
6th – #106, Richard Wood – 6:11
7th – #102, Jonas Reynolds – 6:25
8th – #105, Dakata Thunder – 6:50
9th – #110, Vance Nixon – 7:09
10th – #111, Shane Spraggins – 9:57
11th – #108, Ben Wedeking – 10:58:30
2 Co-Ed:
1st – #205, Who Plotted – 6:00
2nd – #202, Team Timex – 7:19:30
3rd – #204, Metke – 7:38 (time/placement will change soon)
4th – #203, KriznBlock – 8:03
5th – #207, Dos Patos Locos – 8:18:30 (time/placement will change soon)
6th – #206, Shake’n'Bake – 9:07
7th – #208, Muffin Tops – time coming soon
2 Open:
1st – #254, Beer Nuts – 5:55
2nd – #252, Milky Mamas – 5:58
3rd – #258, Squirrel Master – 6:29
4th – #251, Just Finish – 7:40:30
5th – #255, Slaughter Me Nicely – 7:40
6th – #257, Weedarzee – 8:07
7th – #259, Cruizer Team – 9:51:30
8th – #253, Team Muscle Memory – 9:23
9th – #256, COGs – 9:52
3-4 Co-Ed: (coed and open will be separated out soon)
1st – #356, Nord Vrai – 5:32
2nd – #308, A Priest and a Rabbi walk into a Bar… – 5:44
3rd – #304, Spider Monkeys – 6:33
4th – #307, Chic Force – 6:40:30
5th – #302, Pikes Peak Adrenaline – 7:08
6th – #353, CrossFit 5280 – 7:07
7th – #309, Two Outties and an Innie – 7:09:30
8th – #355, TSSAR – 7:10
9th – #351, Compensating for Benefits – 8:23:30
10th – #306, Awesome – 8:53:30
11th – #352, BI-WINNING! – 9:03:30
12th – #354, 5280 Too – 9:09:30
13th – #303, Whose Idea? – 9:44
14th – #301, Magnamimous – 12:34:30
4+ Open:
1st – #402, Last But Not Least – 6:51
2nd – #402, Dragons – 7:43:30
BMARE competition:
1st (most trash by weight): Milky Mamas
2nd (most creative display of trash): Nord Vrai
You guys were AWESOME!! Hope to see you for the next race…!
More (unofficial) Results!Posted on April 23, 2011 by Cami Heaps
Solo Female:
1st – #153, Laurien Moes – 5:43
2nd – #152, Deborah Doyle – 7:21
3rd – #151, Baarbd – 8:27
Solo Male:
8th – #105, Dakata Thunder – 6:51
9th – #110, Vance Nixon – 7:09
2 Co-Ed:
1st – #205, Who Plotted – 6:14
2nd – #202, Team Timex – 7:45
2 Open:
1st – #254, Beer Nuts – 6:05
2nd – #252, Milky Mamas – 6:32
3rd – #258, Squirrel Master – 6:57
4th – #251, Just Finish – 7:03
5th – #253, Team Muscle Memory – 7:47
6th – #255, Slaughter Me Nicely – 8:03
7th – #259, Cruizer Team – 9:25
3-4 Co-Ed:
1st – #356, Nord Vrai – 5:37
2nd – #308, A Priest and a Rabbi walk into a Bar… – 6:05
3rd – #304, Spider Monkeys – 6:38
4th – #307, Chic Force – 7:03
5th – #302, Pikes Peak Adrenaline – 7:13
6th – #309, Two Outties and an Innie – 7:16
7th – #353, CrossFit 5280 – 7:21
8th – #355, TSSAR – 7:23
9th – #301, Magnamimous – 7:48
10th – #354, 5280 Too – 9:29
4+ Open:
1st – #402, Last But Not Least – 7:01
You guys ROCK!!!
Solo Female:
1st – #153, Laurien Moes – 5:43
2nd – #152, Deborah Doyle – 7:21
3rd – #151, Baarbd – 8:27
Solo Male:
8th – #105, Dakata Thunder – 6:51
9th – #110, Vance Nixon – 7:09
2 Co-Ed:
1st – #205, Who Plotted – 6:14
2nd – #202, Team Timex – 7:45
2 Open:
1st – #254, Beer Nuts – 6:05
2nd – #252, Milky Mamas – 6:32
3rd – #258, Squirrel Master – 6:57
4th – #251, Just Finish – 7:03
5th – #253, Team Muscle Memory – 7:47
6th – #255, Slaughter Me Nicely – 8:03
7th – #259, Cruizer Team – 9:25
3-4 Co-Ed:
1st – #356, Nord Vrai – 5:37
2nd – #308, A Priest and a Rabbi walk into a Bar… – 6:05
3rd – #304, Spider Monkeys – 6:38
4th – #307, Chic Force – 7:03
5th – #302, Pikes Peak Adrenaline – 7:13
6th – #309, Two Outties and an Innie – 7:16
7th – #353, CrossFit 5280 – 7:21
8th – #355, TSSAR – 7:23
9th – #301, Magnamimous – 7:48
10th – #354, 5280 Too – 9:29
4+ Open:
1st – #402, Last But Not Least – 7:01
You guys ROCK!!!
More finishers!Posted on April 23, 2011 by Cami Heaps
***Unofficial Results***
Solo Male:
1st – #107, Ryan Ognibene – 4:49
2nd – #103, Bryan Caylor – 5:14
3rd – #109, Timothy David McNamara – 5:42
4th – #101, Joseph Parris – 5:44
5th – #104, Crazy Legs – 5:57
6th – #106, Richard Wood – 6:11
7th – #102, Jonas Reynolds – 6:25
2 Open:
Team #254, Beer Nuts – 6:05
3-4 Co-Ed:
Team #356, Nord Vrai – 5:37
Awesome job, guys!!
***Unofficial Results***
Solo Male:
1st – #107, Ryan Ognibene – 4:49
2nd – #103, Bryan Caylor – 5:14
3rd – #109, Timothy David McNamara – 5:42
4th – #101, Joseph Parris – 5:44
5th – #104, Crazy Legs – 5:57
6th – #106, Richard Wood – 6:11
7th – #102, Jonas Reynolds – 6:25
2 Open:
Team #254, Beer Nuts – 6:05
3-4 Co-Ed:
Team #356, Nord Vrai – 5:37
Awesome job, guys!!
2nd finisher in!Posted on April 23, 2011 by Cami Heaps
Solo male #103, Bryan Caylor, in at 2:16pm. Final time: 5hrs 16min. Congrats Bryan!
Solo male #103, Bryan Caylor, in at 2:16pm. Final time: 5hrs 16min. Congrats Bryan!
Last group of teams departing UCCSPosted on April 23, 2011 by Cami Heaps
Team / time:
352 – 1:57:38
208 – 1:58:49
252 – 2:02:29
401 – 2:03:26
301 – 2:08:21
253 – 2:11:12
259 – 2:12:43
All teams have now left UCCS and are on to the finish…!
Team / time:
352 – 1:57:38
208 – 1:58:49
252 – 2:02:29
401 – 2:03:26
301 – 2:08:21
253 – 2:11:12
259 – 2:12:43
All teams have now left UCCS and are on to the finish…!
More teams departing UCCSPosted on April 23, 2011 by Cami Heaps
Team / time:
257 – 1:10:56
258 – 1:12:10
203 – 1:19:20
202 – 1:22:58
111 – 1:29:31
306 – 1:35:10
207 – 1:36:25
204 – 1:36:51
354 – 1:41:05
108 – 1:42:05
206 – 1:43:05
256 – 1:44:40
303 – 1:46:58
351 – 1:49:19
Team / time:
257 – 1:10:56
258 – 1:12:10
203 – 1:19:20
202 – 1:22:58
111 – 1:29:31
306 – 1:35:10
207 – 1:36:25
204 – 1:36:51
354 – 1:41:05
108 – 1:42:05
206 – 1:43:05
256 – 1:44:40
303 – 1:46:58
351 – 1:49:19
First finisher!Posted on April 23, 2011 by Cami Heaps
First racer in at 1:41pm. Solo male #107 Ryan Ognibene. Final unofficial time: 4:41. Way to go, Ryan!!
First racer in at 1:41pm. Solo male #107 Ryan Ognibene. Final unofficial time: 4:41. Way to go, Ryan!!
Teams departing UCCSPosted on April 23, 2011 by Cami Heaps
Team / time:
304 – 12:41:41
402 – 12:44:07
355 – 12:45
353 – 12:59:32
251 – 1:00:15
255 – 1:01:21
Team / time:
304 – 12:41:41
402 – 12:44:07
355 – 12:45
353 – 12:59:32
251 – 1:00:15
255 – 1:01:21
Teams departing UCCS, continued…Posted on April 23, 2011 by Cami Heaps
254 – 12:15:01
356 – 12:17:38
151 – 12:19:56
152 – 12:26:54
302 – 12:33:13
309 – 12:35:45
205 – 12:37:35
254 – 12:15:01
356 – 12:17:38
151 – 12:19:56
152 – 12:26:54
302 – 12:33:13
309 – 12:35:45
205 – 12:37:35
Rock2Rock Update: Teams departing UCCSPosted on April 23, 2011 by Cami Heaps
Team / departure time:
107 – 11:05
103 – 11:35
104 – 11:45
106 – 11:45:48
109 – 11:51:44
102 – 11:51:15
153 – 11:51:52
308 – 11:59
105 – 12:03:03
110 – 12:03:21
Team / departure time:
107 – 11:05
103 – 11:35
104 – 11:45
106 – 11:45:48
109 – 11:51:44
102 – 11:51:15
153 – 11:51:52
308 – 11:59
105 – 12:03:03
110 – 12:03:21
Rock2Rock: Checkpoint 3 (UCCS transition area/bike drop) UpdatePosted on April 23, 2011 by Cami Heaps
Check-in Time / Team number:
10:30 – 301
10:43 – 254, 251, 306
10:44 – 355
10:47 – 109
10:50 – 205
10:52 – 203
10:54 – 255
10:55 – 302, 352
10:57 – 207
10:58 – 204
11:00 – 258
11:03 – 253, 257
11:04 – 208
11:06 – 259
11:07 – 351, 303
11:08 – 402, 354
11:18 – 353
11:20 – 252
11:22 – 253
Check-in Time / Team number:
10:30 – 301
10:43 – 254, 251, 306
10:44 – 355
10:47 – 109
10:50 – 205
10:52 – 203
10:54 – 255
10:55 – 302, 352
10:57 – 207
10:58 – 204
11:00 – 258
11:03 – 253, 257
11:04 – 208
11:06 – 259
11:07 – 351, 303
11:08 – 402, 354
11:18 – 353
11:20 – 252
11:22 – 253
Rock2Rock updatePosted on April 23, 2011 by Cami Heaps
The first 4 teams reached checkpoint 3 (UCCS bike drop) at 10:01:30!
Team 107
Team 109
Team 101
Team 106
10:04 – Team 104
10:05 – Team 308
10:06 – Teams 152 and 153
10:25 – Teams 102, 151, 110 and 309
10:28 – Team 356
10:30 – Teams 307 and 301
10:34 – Team 304
Great job, everyone! Stay warm out there!!
The first 4 teams reached checkpoint 3 (UCCS bike drop) at 10:01:30!
Team 107
Team 109
Team 101
Team 106
10:04 – Team 104
10:05 – Team 308
10:06 – Teams 152 and 153
10:25 – Teams 102, 151, 110 and 309
10:28 – Team 356
10:30 – Teams 307 and 301
10:34 – Team 304
Great job, everyone! Stay warm out there!!
Rock2Rock Team Placement UpdatesPosted on April 23, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Adventure Race!We will be tracking teams’ progress throughout the race on this blog post. Please check back periodically to see how your friends and family are doing. A big thank you to Cami Heaps for keeping this updated throughout the race. http://www.creationsbycami.com/
Current Team Standings(just by race time – penalties are not accounted for)
3-4 coed
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
2 coed
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
2 open
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
solo male
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
solo female
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
group division
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
General Updates:(in reverse chronological order)
Check back after race start!
Rock2Rock Team List3-4 Person Coed
301 Magnanimous
302 Pikes Peak Adrenaline
303 Whose Idea?
304 Spider Monkeys
305 Pikes Peak Mountain Warriors
306 Awesome
307 Chic Fource
308 A priest and a rabbi walk into a bar…
309 Two outties and an innie
351 Compensating for Benefits
352 BI-WINNING!!!
353 CrossFit 5280
354 5280 Too
355 TSSAR
356 Nord Vrai
2 Person Coed
201 Chop Chop Little Onion
202 Team Timex
203 KriznBlock
204 Metke
205 Who Plotted?
206 Shake ‘n’ Bake
207 Dos Patos Locos
208 DC Hill Rats
2 Person Open
251 Just Finish
252 Milky Mamas
253 Team Muscle Memory
254 Beer Nuts
255 Slaughter me nicely
256 COGs
257 Weedarzee
258 Squirrel Master
259 Cruizer Team
Solo Male
101 Jeff LaForce
102 Jonas Reynolds
103 Bryan Caylor
104 Crazy Legs
105 Dakata Thunder
106 Richard Wood
107 Ryan Ognibene
108 Ben Wedeking
109 Timothy David McNamara
110 Vance Nixon
Solo Female
151 baarbd
152 Deborah Doyle
153 Laurien Moes
Large Group / Family (4+ open and 5+ coed)
401 Dragons
402 Last but not least
Adventure Race!We will be tracking teams’ progress throughout the race on this blog post. Please check back periodically to see how your friends and family are doing. A big thank you to Cami Heaps for keeping this updated throughout the race. http://www.creationsbycami.com/
Current Team Standings(just by race time – penalties are not accounted for)
3-4 coed
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
2 coed
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
2 open
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
solo male
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
solo female
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
group division
1st:
2nd:
3rd:
General Updates:(in reverse chronological order)
Check back after race start!
Rock2Rock Team List3-4 Person Coed
301 Magnanimous
302 Pikes Peak Adrenaline
303 Whose Idea?
304 Spider Monkeys
305 Pikes Peak Mountain Warriors
306 Awesome
307 Chic Fource
308 A priest and a rabbi walk into a bar…
309 Two outties and an innie
351 Compensating for Benefits
352 BI-WINNING!!!
353 CrossFit 5280
354 5280 Too
355 TSSAR
356 Nord Vrai
2 Person Coed
201 Chop Chop Little Onion
202 Team Timex
203 KriznBlock
204 Metke
205 Who Plotted?
206 Shake ‘n’ Bake
207 Dos Patos Locos
208 DC Hill Rats
2 Person Open
251 Just Finish
252 Milky Mamas
253 Team Muscle Memory
254 Beer Nuts
255 Slaughter me nicely
256 COGs
257 Weedarzee
258 Squirrel Master
259 Cruizer Team
Solo Male
101 Jeff LaForce
102 Jonas Reynolds
103 Bryan Caylor
104 Crazy Legs
105 Dakata Thunder
106 Richard Wood
107 Ryan Ognibene
108 Ben Wedeking
109 Timothy David McNamara
110 Vance Nixon
Solo Female
151 baarbd
152 Deborah Doyle
153 Laurien Moes
Large Group / Family (4+ open and 5+ coed)
401 Dragons
402 Last but not least
Earth Day is Friday but Celebrate it on Saturday with BMA!Posted on April 21, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Don’t forget about our Big Mountain Adventure Racing for the Environment (BMARE) competition and initiatives at Rock2Rock this Saturday! Earth Day is April 22nd, but you can help mother on the 23rd while enjoying Rock2Rock.
Racers will have trashbags as well as drop off locations for the bags as it is collected. The team with the most amount of trash by weight sins first prize and the most creative display of the trash wins second. The competition is sponsored by SOLE, GoLite, andBestway.
Read more about BMARE here:
http://www.bigmountainar.com/bmare.php
Don’t forget about our Big Mountain Adventure Racing for the Environment (BMARE) competition and initiatives at Rock2Rock this Saturday! Earth Day is April 22nd, but you can help mother on the 23rd while enjoying Rock2Rock.
Racers will have trashbags as well as drop off locations for the bags as it is collected. The team with the most amount of trash by weight sins first prize and the most creative display of the trash wins second. The competition is sponsored by SOLE, GoLite, andBestway.
Read more about BMARE here:
http://www.bigmountainar.com/bmare.php
Excitement Leading Into Rock2RockPosted on April 19, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
There is a lot of excitement leading into the Rock2Rock Adventure Race. Racers are putting final touches on their gear, trying to get some last minute training in, and of course wondering more and more about the course. :) In due time… your adventure awaits you on Saturday!
Pikes peak sports and OutThereColorado are excited about the race too. Check out their stories:
Big Mountain Adventure Racing hosts Rock2Rock event this weekend, Rampart RAGE goes July 16th, Pikes Peak Sports
Adventure Racing Goes Beyond Pure Athleticism, OutThereColorado.com
There were many more people wanting to get in on the adventure in Rock2Rock than our first early season race had room for (we’ll change that next year), so don’t miss your chance to get in on the action in July at the Rampart RAGE adventure race! Registration is open for both a short and long course.
http://www.bigmountainar.com/RampartRageAR2011.php
There is a lot of excitement leading into the Rock2Rock Adventure Race. Racers are putting final touches on their gear, trying to get some last minute training in, and of course wondering more and more about the course. :) In due time… your adventure awaits you on Saturday!
Pikes peak sports and OutThereColorado are excited about the race too. Check out their stories:
Big Mountain Adventure Racing hosts Rock2Rock event this weekend, Rampart RAGE goes July 16th, Pikes Peak Sports
Adventure Racing Goes Beyond Pure Athleticism, OutThereColorado.com
There were many more people wanting to get in on the adventure in Rock2Rock than our first early season race had room for (we’ll change that next year), so don’t miss your chance to get in on the action in July at the Rampart RAGE adventure race! Registration is open for both a short and long course.
http://www.bigmountainar.com/RampartRageAR2011.php
Registration for the Rampart RAGE adventure race is now open!Posted on April 8, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Hi Adventurers!
Rock2Rock sold out quite quickly so don’t miss your opportunity to race at this phenomenal venue on July 16th… Rampart RAGE registration is open NOW!
http://www.bigmountainar.com/RampartRageAR2011.php
http://www.bigmountainar.com/register.php
Beginners through seasoned adventure racers can all enjoy! The Sprint race (5-8hr) is aimed at being beginner friendly similar to the Rock2Rock race. However, this course will not have any elements of urban AR and will be absolutely gorgeous. The Sport race (12-15 hr) covers more beautiful ground, focuses more on strategy and teamwork, and will prepare you for our third race in the fall. This will be a memorable adventure race; we’re honored to share it with you. This race is what adventure racing is all about! Both options include trail running, mountain biking, flatwater kayaking, fixed ropes including a cable zipline and rope tyrolean traverse, navigation, and special challenges.
Grab your teammates or brave it solo. We are offering the same flexible categories and now include a 3 open option in the large family/group division. Once again we strive to keep racer costs as low as possible and give you the best possible value so everyone can enjoy! For the 12-15hr race, only $126 gets you in the race, kayaks and paddles included! You can also look forward to a winner prizes and medals for the 12-15hr race, a race t-shirt, a sweet swag bag, post race food (beer tbd), and a gear-filled prize raffle thanks to our generous sponsors. The 5-8hr sprint race is only $89 with all the perks listed above including kayaks and paddles, however the sprint race includes no prizes, only official rankings and winner medals.
Primitive camping at the start/finish location is available as well for $12/night for Friday and Saturday. If interested, please send an email to [email protected].
Rampart RAGE is a USARA sanctioned event and the 12-15hr race is a part of the Checkpoint Tracker Series! http://www.checkpointtracker.com/
See you in July!
Hi Adventurers!
Rock2Rock sold out quite quickly so don’t miss your opportunity to race at this phenomenal venue on July 16th… Rampart RAGE registration is open NOW!
http://www.bigmountainar.com/RampartRageAR2011.php
http://www.bigmountainar.com/register.php
Beginners through seasoned adventure racers can all enjoy! The Sprint race (5-8hr) is aimed at being beginner friendly similar to the Rock2Rock race. However, this course will not have any elements of urban AR and will be absolutely gorgeous. The Sport race (12-15 hr) covers more beautiful ground, focuses more on strategy and teamwork, and will prepare you for our third race in the fall. This will be a memorable adventure race; we’re honored to share it with you. This race is what adventure racing is all about! Both options include trail running, mountain biking, flatwater kayaking, fixed ropes including a cable zipline and rope tyrolean traverse, navigation, and special challenges.
Grab your teammates or brave it solo. We are offering the same flexible categories and now include a 3 open option in the large family/group division. Once again we strive to keep racer costs as low as possible and give you the best possible value so everyone can enjoy! For the 12-15hr race, only $126 gets you in the race, kayaks and paddles included! You can also look forward to a winner prizes and medals for the 12-15hr race, a race t-shirt, a sweet swag bag, post race food (beer tbd), and a gear-filled prize raffle thanks to our generous sponsors. The 5-8hr sprint race is only $89 with all the perks listed above including kayaks and paddles, however the sprint race includes no prizes, only official rankings and winner medals.
Primitive camping at the start/finish location is available as well for $12/night for Friday and Saturday. If interested, please send an email to [email protected].
Rampart RAGE is a USARA sanctioned event and the 12-15hr race is a part of the Checkpoint Tracker Series! http://www.checkpointtracker.com/
See you in July!
Radio Interview on Sports Animal 1300Posted on April 5, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
While on our way to our Kansas race we had a chance to phone in with Len Williams of Colorado Springs Sports Animal 1300 to talk about the Rock2Rock and Rampart RAGE adventure races coming soon in the Colorado Springs area. Check it out and let us know what you think!
Out There Colorado Sports Animal Radio Interview.mp3
While on our way to our Kansas race we had a chance to phone in with Len Williams of Colorado Springs Sports Animal 1300 to talk about the Rock2Rock and Rampart RAGE adventure races coming soon in the Colorado Springs area. Check it out and let us know what you think!
Out There Colorado Sports Animal Radio Interview.mp3
3rd Place in Extreme Breakup ARPosted on April 4, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Well our first race of the season is over. Overall we felt we did very well in it. Did the extra oxygen help? It seemed so, but it doesn’t replace the need to not accidentally skip a checkpoint and then have to go back, nor did it make us fast enough on the bikes. We also had about 8 bike malfunctions over the course of this race (preparation, race, and post race) Oh well – room for improvement next time! Despite some errors, we qualified for the USARA National Championship race in October! More pics to come (probably)
Well our first race of the season is over. Overall we felt we did very well in it. Did the extra oxygen help? It seemed so, but it doesn’t replace the need to not accidentally skip a checkpoint and then have to go back, nor did it make us fast enough on the bikes. We also had about 8 bike malfunctions over the course of this race (preparation, race, and post race) Oh well – room for improvement next time! Despite some errors, we qualified for the USARA National Championship race in October! More pics to come (probably)
Our first race of ’11!Posted on April 1, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
So, the team is leaving for Kansas tomorrow to attend our first race of the season. No doubt we have a lot of questions buzzing through our minds. What will the course be like? How will we do? What do we need to pack? Will the “extra oxygen” help us? and more. But I think the biggest question on our minds is: On the drive there, will we stop to see the worlds biggest prairie dog?!
Happy weekend everybody! I hope you all find some adventure!
So, the team is leaving for Kansas tomorrow to attend our first race of the season. No doubt we have a lot of questions buzzing through our minds. What will the course be like? How will we do? What do we need to pack? Will the “extra oxygen” help us? and more. But I think the biggest question on our minds is: On the drive there, will we stop to see the worlds biggest prairie dog?!
Happy weekend everybody! I hope you all find some adventure!
March 2011 (10)
Rock2Rock Race is FULL! Registration is now closed.Posted on March 29, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Rock2Rock is full of adventure and is now full of racers too. Over the past 48 hours we’ve had 18 registrations. We wanted to give everyone a better heads up on the nearing of the registration closing, but it was a surprise to us too!
See who is registered here:http://www.bigmountainar.com/docs/Rock2RockRegisteredTeams.pdf
If you wanted to race Rock2Rock but didn’t make it in time, consider racing in Rampart RAGE on July 16th. Registration will open for this race in the next couple weeks.
See you in April!
Rock2Rock is full of adventure and is now full of racers too. Over the past 48 hours we’ve had 18 registrations. We wanted to give everyone a better heads up on the nearing of the registration closing, but it was a surprise to us too!
See who is registered here:http://www.bigmountainar.com/docs/Rock2RockRegisteredTeams.pdf
If you wanted to race Rock2Rock but didn’t make it in time, consider racing in Rampart RAGE on July 16th. Registration will open for this race in the next couple weeks.
See you in April!
Brooks Range MountaineeringPosted on March 24, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
We’re not requiring a UTM for this first race, but races 2 & 3 will likely require one. In this first race, you have the chance of winning a super nice UTM included in the All-in-One Adventure Racing Toolkit from Brooks Range Mountaineering if you win 2nd place in the 3-4 person coed division, or 1st place in either 2 person open or coed division. So, race on and win so you are already prepared for races 2 & 3!
We’re not requiring a UTM for this first race, but races 2 & 3 will likely require one. In this first race, you have the chance of winning a super nice UTM included in the All-in-One Adventure Racing Toolkit from Brooks Range Mountaineering if you win 2nd place in the 3-4 person coed division, or 1st place in either 2 person open or coed division. So, race on and win so you are already prepared for races 2 & 3!
Rock2Rock is almost here!Posted on March 23, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
Rock2Rock is almost here & it’s going to be an amazingly fun race. Phantom Canyon is providing the post race brewskies & Whole Foods will be cooking up your post-race vittles. You are guaranteed to be pleasantly fatigued & well fed by the end of the day! It should be a hoot!
Rock2Rock is almost here & it’s going to be an amazingly fun race. Phantom Canyon is providing the post race brewskies & Whole Foods will be cooking up your post-race vittles. You are guaranteed to be pleasantly fatigued & well fed by the end of the day! It should be a hoot!
Sponsors!!!Posted on March 18, 2011 by jluttrall
I love our sponsors. Let me list for you a few of the products of our sponsors that I’ve used in (roughly) the past 24 hours:
I love our sponsors. Let me list for you a few of the products of our sponsors that I’ve used in (roughly) the past 24 hours:
- Nathan’s big AR pack
- Numa sunglasses
- Nuun electrolyte replacement
- Sport Multi vitamins
- Powerbar’s Raspberry Cream gel
Saint Patrick’s Day Newsletter (March Edition of BMA)Posted on March 18, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
BMA March Newsletter:
Rock2Rock info
Article 2 in our foot health series – this month Plantar Fasciitis
http://www.bigmountainar.com/newsletters/2011/March/
BMA March Newsletter:
Rock2Rock info
Article 2 in our foot health series – this month Plantar Fasciitis
http://www.bigmountainar.com/newsletters/2011/March/
BMA Adventure Racing Clinic at Carmichael Training SystemsPosted on March 9, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Big Mountain Adventure is presenting an free adventure racing clinic at Carmichael Training Systems in Colorado Springs (600 S. 21st Street, Suite 100) on Friday 3/11 at 6PM. Grab a friend and enjoy this free clinic; you can even enjoy a ride on the computrainers!
Join us to learn more about and discuss adventure racing, what to expect at your first race, training, and gear considerations. Additionally there will be a navigation clinic component. Throughout the clinic Big Mountain Adventure will share interesting stories and lessons learned over the years.
RSVPs are not required, but appreciated. Call 719.635.0645 ext 5 or send an email to [email protected]
Big Mountain Adventure is presenting an free adventure racing clinic at Carmichael Training Systems in Colorado Springs (600 S. 21st Street, Suite 100) on Friday 3/11 at 6PM. Grab a friend and enjoy this free clinic; you can even enjoy a ride on the computrainers!
Join us to learn more about and discuss adventure racing, what to expect at your first race, training, and gear considerations. Additionally there will be a navigation clinic component. Throughout the clinic Big Mountain Adventure will share interesting stories and lessons learned over the years.
RSVPs are not required, but appreciated. Call 719.635.0645 ext 5 or send an email to [email protected]
BMA Article on Pikes Peak SportsPosted on March 9, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Tim Bergsten sat down with us and made arrangements to start a newAdventure Racing Group on PikesPeakSports.us. He also took the time to interview and write an article about us. Check it out!
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/group/adventure/forum/topics/the-thinking-and-the-passion
Tim Bergsten sat down with us and made arrangements to start a newAdventure Racing Group on PikesPeakSports.us. He also took the time to interview and write an article about us. Check it out!
http://www.pikespeaksports.us/group/adventure/forum/topics/the-thinking-and-the-passion
Yoga @ City RockPosted on March 9, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
Yoga @ City Rock @ 6pm tonight for anyone who is interested….Ug…it’s oh so painful, yet, oh so good…..
Yoga @ City Rock @ 6pm tonight for anyone who is interested….Ug…it’s oh so painful, yet, oh so good…..
REI ClinicPosted on March 3, 2011 by jluttrall
Hey everybody,
Don’t forget to head over to REI for our “Adventure Racing in the Front Range” clinic that the BMA team is putting on tonight. Thanks to REI for hosting. We’re all looking forward to it! If you plan on coming, you should try to register online, for there’s limited seating. In fact, I just checked, and there are only 15 spots left.
Hey everybody,
Don’t forget to head over to REI for our “Adventure Racing in the Front Range” clinic that the BMA team is putting on tonight. Thanks to REI for hosting. We’re all looking forward to it! If you plan on coming, you should try to register online, for there’s limited seating. In fact, I just checked, and there are only 15 spots left.
Jack Quinns Tuesday runPosted on March 3, 2011 by John Thiel
Just wanted to say it was a pleasure to meet James, Chelsea, and Ben at Quinns Tuesday evening, thanks again for letting me run with you all.. It was really fun and I look for forward to every Tuesday night now…
Also, Congrats again to Chelsea for receiving her 10th run t-shirt… = )
Just wanted to say it was a pleasure to meet James, Chelsea, and Ben at Quinns Tuesday evening, thanks again for letting me run with you all.. It was really fun and I look for forward to every Tuesday night now…
Also, Congrats again to Chelsea for receiving her 10th run t-shirt… = )
February 2011 (5)
Easy Day at Fox RunPosted on February 28, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
James and I had an easy rest day at Fox Run. We rode our bikes around and explored a new park that we’d never been to before. It’s a nice little place–a good family outing kind of park. I’d been feeling low on electrolytes, so I also grabbed my Nuun to try to replenish. Gosh, that stuff is good! It’s not sweet and “cakey” like so many other electrolyte drinks out there. I see how so many of the AR pro’s can drink it for days on end in their multi day races. And it plugs me full of electrolytes…something that’s usually hard for me to do. I’m definitely going to use my supply up this summer as the workout days get warmer. Can’t wait for that warm weather!
James and I had an easy rest day at Fox Run. We rode our bikes around and explored a new park that we’d never been to before. It’s a nice little place–a good family outing kind of park. I’d been feeling low on electrolytes, so I also grabbed my Nuun to try to replenish. Gosh, that stuff is good! It’s not sweet and “cakey” like so many other electrolyte drinks out there. I see how so many of the AR pro’s can drink it for days on end in their multi day races. And it plugs me full of electrolytes…something that’s usually hard for me to do. I’m definitely going to use my supply up this summer as the workout days get warmer. Can’t wait for that warm weather!
Colorado Running CompanyPosted on February 17, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
Colorado Running Company is sponsoring the grand prize slot for the Big Mountain Adventure this year, as well as providing some other support! Winners of the 3-4 person coed division get to look forward to a $200 gift card for each racer! Colorado Running Company is a local shoe store with all the running gear you could possibly need. They are a bunch of adventure-loving, long-distance running folks who are friendly and helpful. Check them out first the next time you need running gear. They have two locations, so check out the one nearest you…and tell them thanks for helping to make these races possible!
Colorado Running Company is sponsoring the grand prize slot for the Big Mountain Adventure this year, as well as providing some other support! Winners of the 3-4 person coed division get to look forward to a $200 gift card for each racer! Colorado Running Company is a local shoe store with all the running gear you could possibly need. They are a bunch of adventure-loving, long-distance running folks who are friendly and helpful. Check them out first the next time you need running gear. They have two locations, so check out the one nearest you…and tell them thanks for helping to make these races possible!
Big Mountain Adventure Article in the Colorado Springs ExaminerPosted on February 15, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Check it out! An article on BMA is in the Colorado Springs Examiner written by Liz Cady, Colorado Springs Running Examiner. Thanks Liz! Can’t wait to see you at Rock2Rock!
Check it out! An article on BMA is in the Colorado Springs Examiner written by Liz Cady, Colorado Springs Running Examiner. Thanks Liz! Can’t wait to see you at Rock2Rock!
February 2011 Newsletter Is Now Available!Posted on February 15, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
The February 2011 Big Mountain Adventure newsletter is now available. The Rock2Rock adventure race will include an optional, short orienteering lecture after the pre-race meeting. We will do our best to accommodate racers of all experience levels! Additionally, we will be hosting 2 other navigation clinics in March. More information is available in the newsletter.
http://www.bigmountainar.com/newsletters/2011/February/
The February 2011 Big Mountain Adventure newsletter is now available. The Rock2Rock adventure race will include an optional, short orienteering lecture after the pre-race meeting. We will do our best to accommodate racers of all experience levels! Additionally, we will be hosting 2 other navigation clinics in March. More information is available in the newsletter.
http://www.bigmountainar.com/newsletters/2011/February/
Snowboarding WeekendPosted on February 14, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Mike and Gabi took and advantage of the awesome weather and hit up Monarch Mountain this weekend for some snowboarding. What’s kind of cool is that we got all of our snowboarding gear from Gearonimo and used our Numas to protect our eyes from the sun and falls since they are shatterproof and can’t be destroyed. :) Gearonimo has a bunch of cool used and consignment sports equipment including skiing and snowboarding gear. Check them out before the end of the season.
Mike and Gabi took and advantage of the awesome weather and hit up Monarch Mountain this weekend for some snowboarding. What’s kind of cool is that we got all of our snowboarding gear from Gearonimo and used our Numas to protect our eyes from the sun and falls since they are shatterproof and can’t be destroyed. :) Gearonimo has a bunch of cool used and consignment sports equipment including skiing and snowboarding gear. Check them out before the end of the season.
January 2011 (8)
Running in the COLDPosted on January 31, 2011 by jluttrall
Ben and I are going to do a 6-7 miler today. Email me if you’re interested: [email protected].
Ben and I are going to do a 6-7 miler today. Email me if you’re interested: [email protected].
500 Foot Zipline at Rock2RockPosted on January 30, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Today we set up the zipline that will be at the Rock2Rock adventure race, thanks toziplinegear.com, and it is truly awesome and epic! The excitement of safely flying for 500 feet awaits our Rock2Rock racers. We’d post some pics and videos, but the location must remain undisclosed until the race. :) This dry run determined what fine adjustments would be needed before race day. Luckily not too much! We have one more dry run to conduct and invite our volunteers to help us out, get some training, and learn a thing or two about setting up a zipline. If you are interested in volunteering for Rock2Rock send an email to [email protected]. However, the best way to have a blast is to sign up for the race by Regisitering Today! More Rock2Rock information.
Today we set up the zipline that will be at the Rock2Rock adventure race, thanks toziplinegear.com, and it is truly awesome and epic! The excitement of safely flying for 500 feet awaits our Rock2Rock racers. We’d post some pics and videos, but the location must remain undisclosed until the race. :) This dry run determined what fine adjustments would be needed before race day. Luckily not too much! We have one more dry run to conduct and invite our volunteers to help us out, get some training, and learn a thing or two about setting up a zipline. If you are interested in volunteering for Rock2Rock send an email to [email protected]. However, the best way to have a blast is to sign up for the race by Regisitering Today! More Rock2Rock information.
The TrailheadPosted on January 27, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
Buena Vista is home of some of the best mountains, best rocks to climb, best trails to run or ride, nicest people and home of one of the coolest outdoor stores in Colorado: The Trailhead. Of course they have all the outdoor gear you could need. But what we learned this weekend when we went and visited with them, is that they have turned an empty lot out back into a sweet mountain bike challenge trail. It’s not a long ride, but it has some fun trials on it.
So, next time you’re in Buena Vista, start at The Trailhead, load up on a bike rental or any energy food and gear you might need, go take a spin out back and test your mettle on their challenges, and then go hit the Midland trail and it’s off-shoots up for a sweet day of riding!
Also: There’s no snow in Buena Vista right now, so the trails are still great! Happy Trails!
Buena Vista is home of some of the best mountains, best rocks to climb, best trails to run or ride, nicest people and home of one of the coolest outdoor stores in Colorado: The Trailhead. Of course they have all the outdoor gear you could need. But what we learned this weekend when we went and visited with them, is that they have turned an empty lot out back into a sweet mountain bike challenge trail. It’s not a long ride, but it has some fun trials on it.
So, next time you’re in Buena Vista, start at The Trailhead, load up on a bike rental or any energy food and gear you might need, go take a spin out back and test your mettle on their challenges, and then go hit the Midland trail and it’s off-shoots up for a sweet day of riding!
Also: There’s no snow in Buena Vista right now, so the trails are still great! Happy Trails!
Mt. Yale Winter 14erPosted on January 25, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
The team spent this weekend up in the mountains and attempted a 14er (a Colorado 14,000′ mountain) in the winter with around 4ft of snow on the ground. James, Chelsea, Mike, and Gabi attempted the Collegiate Peak of Mt Yale in the Sawatch mountain range clad in winter boots, snowshoes, crampons, and lots of cold weather gear. We almost made it to the summit but had to turn around in order to make it back down to the trailhead by the time we specified to our friends and family. Oh well, next time you’re ours Mt Yale! It was amazing up there.
The team spent this weekend up in the mountains and attempted a 14er (a Colorado 14,000′ mountain) in the winter with around 4ft of snow on the ground. James, Chelsea, Mike, and Gabi attempted the Collegiate Peak of Mt Yale in the Sawatch mountain range clad in winter boots, snowshoes, crampons, and lots of cold weather gear. We almost made it to the summit but had to turn around in order to make it back down to the trailhead by the time we specified to our friends and family. Oh well, next time you’re ours Mt Yale! It was amazing up there.
January 2011 Newsletter AvailablePosted on January 21, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
January 2011 BMA Newsletter
Are you training hard or hardly training? The April 23rd Rock2Rock seems like a long time from now, but it will be here in a flash. Register today and get outside!
Register for Rock2Rock Today!
January 2011 BMA Newsletter
Are you training hard or hardly training? The April 23rd Rock2Rock seems like a long time from now, but it will be here in a flash. Register today and get outside!
Register for Rock2Rock Today!
Mountain House is Awesome!Posted on January 15, 2011 by ChelseaLuttrall
Hey, Racers! FYI: Mountain House is awesome. Not only do they make great camp and hiking food, but they’re seeing to it that all you racers will get a bag of food at ourRock2Rock Race in your SWAG bags!
Hey, Racers! FYI: Mountain House is awesome. Not only do they make great camp and hiking food, but they’re seeing to it that all you racers will get a bag of food at ourRock2Rock Race in your SWAG bags!
Registration for the Rock2Rock Adventure Race is Now Open!Posted on January 11, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Kick start your adrenaline reserves from the winter hibernation with the Rock2Rock adventure race in Colorado on April 23rd! Mountain bike, trail run, and orienteer to ropes challenges including rappelling, traversing, or zip lining and conquer special challenges along this adventure-filled 6-9 hour course. Grab your teammates or brave it solo; we have a number of categories to accommodate any size group. Beginners through seasoned adventure racers can all enjoy! The race will go through some of the area’s nicest parks and trails from Monument to Colorado Springs. Winners of each division can look forward to a variety of exciting prizes, plus all racers will score a t-shirt and awesome swag… and of course some adrenaline induced memories! Share the excitement at our post race party with included food, beer, and a gear-filled prize raffle (thanks to our generoussponsors!). Registration for Rock2Rock is open, cost is only $59/racer!
More Info: http://www.bigmountainar.com/Rock2RockAR2011.php
Register Today: http://www.bigmountainar.com/register.php
Kick start your adrenaline reserves from the winter hibernation with the Rock2Rock adventure race in Colorado on April 23rd! Mountain bike, trail run, and orienteer to ropes challenges including rappelling, traversing, or zip lining and conquer special challenges along this adventure-filled 6-9 hour course. Grab your teammates or brave it solo; we have a number of categories to accommodate any size group. Beginners through seasoned adventure racers can all enjoy! The race will go through some of the area’s nicest parks and trails from Monument to Colorado Springs. Winners of each division can look forward to a variety of exciting prizes, plus all racers will score a t-shirt and awesome swag… and of course some adrenaline induced memories! Share the excitement at our post race party with included food, beer, and a gear-filled prize raffle (thanks to our generoussponsors!). Registration for Rock2Rock is open, cost is only $59/racer!
More Info: http://www.bigmountainar.com/Rock2RockAR2011.php
Register Today: http://www.bigmountainar.com/register.php
The Big Mountain Adventure 2011 is a Checkpoint Tracker EventPosted on January 1, 2011 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Happy New Year Everyone!
Did you know that the 18hr length The Big Mountain Adventure on September 17th 2011 in the Pikes Peak Region is a Checkpoint Tracker Series event? The Checkpoint Tracker is the largest national competitive adventure racing series in the United States. The Tracker allows adventure racers to be a part of series that is hosted by multiple race promoters. This allows racers to compete in various areas of the country while earning points toward a national event. Checkpoint Tracker hosts a national championship as well in the fall. Compete in the 18hr length of The Big Mountain Adventure and earn points toward theCheckpoint Tracker Series. Note the 6 hour event does not earn points toward Checkpoint Tracker but will be a blast nonetheless!
Happy New Year Everyone!
Did you know that the 18hr length The Big Mountain Adventure on September 17th 2011 in the Pikes Peak Region is a Checkpoint Tracker Series event? The Checkpoint Tracker is the largest national competitive adventure racing series in the United States. The Tracker allows adventure racers to be a part of series that is hosted by multiple race promoters. This allows racers to compete in various areas of the country while earning points toward a national event. Checkpoint Tracker hosts a national championship as well in the fall. Compete in the 18hr length of The Big Mountain Adventure and earn points toward theCheckpoint Tracker Series. Note the 6 hour event does not earn points toward Checkpoint Tracker but will be a blast nonetheless!
December 2010 (6)
The zipline of your childhood dreams….Posted on December 17, 2010 by ChelseaLuttrall
If you’re like me, as a child you dreamt of having a system to get from your bedroom to your fort outside without having to touch the ground– afterall, the ground was actually a steaming lava pit!–or perhaps for that day’s imaginary adventure, you were in the secret service and had to sneak in from above. Either way, I always thought a zipline would be the perfect solution, but didn’t have the means.
Ziplinegear.com has kits to make your own personal ziplines!! When I found this out, my childhood imagination came back and ran wild! Ziplinegear.com is sponsoring our races this year, and I can’t wait to make a childhood dream become reality for me and anyone else who wishes to avoid those pesky pits of lava! Thanks Ziplinegear.com!
If you’re like me, as a child you dreamt of having a system to get from your bedroom to your fort outside without having to touch the ground– afterall, the ground was actually a steaming lava pit!–or perhaps for that day’s imaginary adventure, you were in the secret service and had to sneak in from above. Either way, I always thought a zipline would be the perfect solution, but didn’t have the means.
Ziplinegear.com has kits to make your own personal ziplines!! When I found this out, my childhood imagination came back and ran wild! Ziplinegear.com is sponsoring our races this year, and I can’t wait to make a childhood dream become reality for me and anyone else who wishes to avoid those pesky pits of lava! Thanks Ziplinegear.com!
BMA met with Harvey Carter and Gregory CarlsonPosted on December 15, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Hey there,
This past weekend BMA met with Rock Climbing Legend Harvey Carter and Naturalist Gregory Carlson of the Catamount Institute to discuss race design, land usage, and possible training camps. It was an honor to have coffee with these gentlemen and discuss the future of recreational events, adventure racing, public lands, and the environment. Harvey and Greg are awesome guys and helped us greatly with our adventure racing plans and endeavors. We look forward to continued work with them and other influential and intelligent outdoor aficionados!
Hey there,
This past weekend BMA met with Rock Climbing Legend Harvey Carter and Naturalist Gregory Carlson of the Catamount Institute to discuss race design, land usage, and possible training camps. It was an honor to have coffee with these gentlemen and discuss the future of recreational events, adventure racing, public lands, and the environment. Harvey and Greg are awesome guys and helped us greatly with our adventure racing plans and endeavors. We look forward to continued work with them and other influential and intelligent outdoor aficionados!
BMA at VillaSport Affiliate DayPosted on December 15, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
BMA is affiliated with the Colorado Springs VillaSport athletic club and participated in their affiliate day on December 4th. This event connected us with many fun and interesting athletes and allowed us to share our BMA events with potential competitors. We also had the opportunity to introduce athletes to some of the power bar products that they may not have tried. It was unanimously agreed that the Powerbar Energy Blasts gel filled chews were delicious and could be consumed when other energy products may not be able to be tolerated.
There were many people very interested in our races and much interest was expressed in our ‘large group and family division’. On the website you may see this listed as the 4+open/5+coed category. A team in this division could consist of a family, a group of friends, a military platoon, workmates, etc. We would love to have families participate in our races, although in some ways we’re scratching our heads and trying to figure out what age limits to impose and how to allow the event to be more family friendly.
What suggestions do you have for family events? What aged youngsters would you like to include in the races?
What kinds of teams would you see in our ‘large group and family category’? We’d love to hear your opinions!
BMA is affiliated with the Colorado Springs VillaSport athletic club and participated in their affiliate day on December 4th. This event connected us with many fun and interesting athletes and allowed us to share our BMA events with potential competitors. We also had the opportunity to introduce athletes to some of the power bar products that they may not have tried. It was unanimously agreed that the Powerbar Energy Blasts gel filled chews were delicious and could be consumed when other energy products may not be able to be tolerated.
There were many people very interested in our races and much interest was expressed in our ‘large group and family division’. On the website you may see this listed as the 4+open/5+coed category. A team in this division could consist of a family, a group of friends, a military platoon, workmates, etc. We would love to have families participate in our races, although in some ways we’re scratching our heads and trying to figure out what age limits to impose and how to allow the event to be more family friendly.
What suggestions do you have for family events? What aged youngsters would you like to include in the races?
What kinds of teams would you see in our ‘large group and family category’? We’d love to hear your opinions!
Big Mountain Adventure December 2010 NewsletterPosted on December 15, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Hey Everyone,
We’ve published our first newsletter! Check it out:
http://www.bigmountainar.com/newsletters/2010/December/
Also if you haven’t already, check out our video and let us know what you think. We can’t wait to have you participate in our events and have a blast:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3ekOBShKuQ
Hey Everyone,
We’ve published our first newsletter! Check it out:
http://www.bigmountainar.com/newsletters/2010/December/
Also if you haven’t already, check out our video and let us know what you think. We can’t wait to have you participate in our events and have a blast:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3ekOBShKuQ
Denali likes NumasPosted on December 13, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
I like my Numa sunglasses. Looks like our faithful friend and running partner likes them too!
I like my Numa sunglasses. Looks like our faithful friend and running partner likes them too!
Accidentally Closed Blog CommentingPosted on December 13, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Hello Adventurers!
For a while now the commenting feature of the blog has been accidentally out of order. I didn’t realize it until now, doh!
As a new blog we’ve been slowly learning how to combat spam bots. There are programs out there that find all blogs they can and automatically post bogus comments that include website addresses. These website addresses are hoped to be crawled by google and other search engines to improve their page rank so as to appear in search results by real users. It’s been quite frustrating, but I’ve fixed our issue (I hope). I’ve tested and it appears to work. If you still have trouble posting a comment, please send an email to bmar (at) bigmountainar.com. Thanks!
Mike
Hello Adventurers!
For a while now the commenting feature of the blog has been accidentally out of order. I didn’t realize it until now, doh!
As a new blog we’ve been slowly learning how to combat spam bots. There are programs out there that find all blogs they can and automatically post bogus comments that include website addresses. These website addresses are hoped to be crawled by google and other search engines to improve their page rank so as to appear in search results by real users. It’s been quite frustrating, but I’ve fixed our issue (I hope). I’ve tested and it appears to work. If you still have trouble posting a comment, please send an email to bmar (at) bigmountainar.com. Thanks!
Mike
November 2010 (3)
Nathan PacksPosted on November 10, 2010 by ChelseaLuttrall
Hey, all! Nathan Packs is sponsoring ALL 3 Races this year! Never heard of them? Check them out! They have some awesome innovations which really help with some of the common problems associated with running and biking packs! Do you hate it when your pack jostles up and down on your back while you run? Nathan Packs has a solution for that! And it works great! Do you get tired of pure energy drink or pure water while you are racing? Nathan Packs manufactures a bladder with a valve that allows you to cocktail your race drinks to your preferred concentration! I mean, these people are thinking out of the box!
Are you interested in winning one of these packs? You’ll have several opportunities at each race to possibly win! Or, if you can’t wait until then, click on the pack below to pick one out for yourself!
Hey, all! Nathan Packs is sponsoring ALL 3 Races this year! Never heard of them? Check them out! They have some awesome innovations which really help with some of the common problems associated with running and biking packs! Do you hate it when your pack jostles up and down on your back while you run? Nathan Packs has a solution for that! And it works great! Do you get tired of pure energy drink or pure water while you are racing? Nathan Packs manufactures a bladder with a valve that allows you to cocktail your race drinks to your preferred concentration! I mean, these people are thinking out of the box!
Are you interested in winning one of these packs? You’ll have several opportunities at each race to possibly win! Or, if you can’t wait until then, click on the pack below to pick one out for yourself!
Race ScoutingPosted on November 8, 2010 by ChelseaLuttrall
James and I scouted for some of this year’s races this weekend. We won’t let you know where, but it will definitely be an amazing place to race!
James and I scouted for some of this year’s races this weekend. We won’t let you know where, but it will definitely be an amazing place to race!
Running Again!Posted on November 4, 2010 by ChelseaLuttrall
I’m just excited I get to run, so I wanted to share! I’m out of the sling & weak armed, but the doctor said I can run! Lunch Time Escape Runs, here I come again!
I’m just excited I get to run, so I wanted to share! I’m out of the sling & weak armed, but the doctor said I can run! Lunch Time Escape Runs, here I come again!
October 2010 (7)
Chamois Butt’rPosted on October 26, 2010 by ChelseaLuttrall
Good news racers, Chamois Butt’r will be donating some “Butt’r” for everyone at our races. Hurray! No chafing! If you don’t usually use chamois cream, consider using it to reduce the likelihood of toe blisters! Mike puts it on his toes before every race. He never gets toe blisters because of it!
Good news racers, Chamois Butt’r will be donating some “Butt’r” for everyone at our races. Hurray! No chafing! If you don’t usually use chamois cream, consider using it to reduce the likelihood of toe blisters! Mike puts it on his toes before every race. He never gets toe blisters because of it!
Orienteering Training with the RMOCPosted on October 24, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
We went up to Littleton, CO for a bit of orienteering training with the Rocky Mountain Orienteering Club. It was their last meet of 2010 at Chatfield State Park so we definitely wanted to participate. We all took a turn at the different roles of navigating and was a lot of fun! RMOC’s orienteering maps are top notch. We may be using some of them for our maps for our events.
We went up to Littleton, CO for a bit of orienteering training with the Rocky Mountain Orienteering Club. It was their last meet of 2010 at Chatfield State Park so we definitely wanted to participate. We all took a turn at the different roles of navigating and was a lot of fun! RMOC’s orienteering maps are top notch. We may be using some of them for our maps for our events.
Thanks Planet Bike!Posted on October 17, 2010 by ChelseaLuttrall
Planet Bike really came through by providing lots of sweet gear for the race prizes and raffle giveaways! Racers, there’s a lot of good stuff here! Get ready to win some awesome stuff!
Planet Bike really came through by providing lots of sweet gear for the race prizes and raffle giveaways! Racers, there’s a lot of good stuff here! Get ready to win some awesome stuff!
Big Mountain Adventure Racing – A Memorable 2010 SeasonPosted on October 14, 2010 by gabilester
Our 2010 adventure racing season was a blast of cold water met face-on on a river board, intimidation during a rope traverse hovering above a cliff, excitement flying down a steep downhill mountain-biking run, and best of all teamwork with an amazing team whose bond has grown with every race. Our best moment…? Perhaps running from an angry bear who didn’t appreciate that our navigation strategy led us unnervingly close to his prized territory. Luckily that checkpoint was bagged just seconds before our best sprint efforts were put to the test… wait, should we have made tall and waved our hands?…turns out none of us wanted to test that approach. Overall our first year team, racing as LifeQuest Boulder Running Company, and consisting of a core team of two girls and two guys, had a great time growing as a team. Many things had changed from our first race as independent racers on a team trudging up a tough hill, to a team linked together on a bike towing system conquering several gruesome 2000 feet elevation gain climbs. We battled through some tight illiotibial bands, muscle spasms, one separated shoulder, and a whole lot of memorable adventures to land our third place finish in the Adventure Xstream Racing series this year.
The comradery and post training beers gave us inspiration to also host some of our own 2011 races for our fellow Front Rangers and adventure racing enthusiasts wanting to enjoy the beauty of the front range…in muddy shoes and biking shorts of course. October marks the end of our 2010 racing season and the beginning of our new endeavor, Big Mountain Adventure. The goals for our BMA races include combining adventure, athleticism, multi-sport skills with strategy, while also incorporating environmental cleanup challenges to help build a strong, environmentally friendly racing community.
Got adventure…? Get some! For more information, please visit our website at:http://www.BigMountainAR.com
Our 2010 adventure racing season was a blast of cold water met face-on on a river board, intimidation during a rope traverse hovering above a cliff, excitement flying down a steep downhill mountain-biking run, and best of all teamwork with an amazing team whose bond has grown with every race. Our best moment…? Perhaps running from an angry bear who didn’t appreciate that our navigation strategy led us unnervingly close to his prized territory. Luckily that checkpoint was bagged just seconds before our best sprint efforts were put to the test… wait, should we have made tall and waved our hands?…turns out none of us wanted to test that approach. Overall our first year team, racing as LifeQuest Boulder Running Company, and consisting of a core team of two girls and two guys, had a great time growing as a team. Many things had changed from our first race as independent racers on a team trudging up a tough hill, to a team linked together on a bike towing system conquering several gruesome 2000 feet elevation gain climbs. We battled through some tight illiotibial bands, muscle spasms, one separated shoulder, and a whole lot of memorable adventures to land our third place finish in the Adventure Xstream Racing series this year.
The comradery and post training beers gave us inspiration to also host some of our own 2011 races for our fellow Front Rangers and adventure racing enthusiasts wanting to enjoy the beauty of the front range…in muddy shoes and biking shorts of course. October marks the end of our 2010 racing season and the beginning of our new endeavor, Big Mountain Adventure. The goals for our BMA races include combining adventure, athleticism, multi-sport skills with strategy, while also incorporating environmental cleanup challenges to help build a strong, environmentally friendly racing community.
Got adventure…? Get some! For more information, please visit our website at:http://www.BigMountainAR.com
Great Place Near Colorado Springs to TrainPosted on October 14, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Gabi and I recently discovered Fox Run Regional Park. It’s a nice run with rolling hills and great place to do some interval training. It also looks like a great place to do some orienteering practice or AR training… Hmm… :)
Gabi and I recently discovered Fox Run Regional Park. It’s a nice run with rolling hills and great place to do some interval training. It also looks like a great place to do some orienteering practice or AR training… Hmm… :)
Course Scouting for Rampart RAGE AR 2011!Posted on October 11, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Course scouting this weekend reminded me that I wanted to share a fun thing and a not so fun thing about hosting adventure races.
Fun thing: Course Scouting! It’s kinda neat making ourselves go to new places with a purpose other than our own fun or training in mind.
Not so fun thing: obtaining land use permits. That is all. :)
Course scouting this weekend reminded me that I wanted to share a fun thing and a not so fun thing about hosting adventure races.
Fun thing: Course Scouting! It’s kinda neat making ourselves go to new places with a purpose other than our own fun or training in mind.
Not so fun thing: obtaining land use permits. That is all. :)
BMARE CompetitionPosted on October 8, 2010 by ChelseaLuttrall
Just got the Visors and 40% off coupons from GoLite for the BMARE competition and they are sweet! Get your trash-scouting skills honed over the winter, racers, because come the Rock2Rock, the competition is on!
Just got the Visors and 40% off coupons from GoLite for the BMARE competition and they are sweet! Get your trash-scouting skills honed over the winter, racers, because come the Rock2Rock, the competition is on!
September 2010 (13)
The Incline and Barr Trail Running in the DarkPosted on September 30, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Tony, Mike, and Gabi headed up the incline on Tuesday for a bit of cardio training. The Manitou Incline is a 0.9 miles long hiking trail that gains a heart pounding 2100′ of elevation! The incline once served people who wanted to travel up Mt. Manitou using a tram to enjoy the beautiful view looking toward the plains and city of Colorado Springs. In the early 1990′s, the incline operation closed but the path and ties remain, and over time it become a popular spot for hikers, Olympic trainers or anyone serious about getting into shape.
Tony, Mike, and Gabi headed up the incline on Tuesday for a bit of cardio training. The Manitou Incline is a 0.9 miles long hiking trail that gains a heart pounding 2100′ of elevation! The incline once served people who wanted to travel up Mt. Manitou using a tram to enjoy the beautiful view looking toward the plains and city of Colorado Springs. In the early 1990′s, the incline operation closed but the path and ties remain, and over time it become a popular spot for hikers, Olympic trainers or anyone serious about getting into shape.
Mt Harvard Training Hike and CampingPosted on September 30, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
The team took the weekend off to camp between Buena Vista and Salida. While we were there we did a few ‘trainings’. First, we played around with a zipline in the campground. We didn’t leave home thinking we were going to set one up so we really didn’t have the right equipment but we gave it a try anyway. Our mechanical system worked very well, but overall this setup failed miserably. Some important lessons were learned however:
The team took the weekend off to camp between Buena Vista and Salida. While we were there we did a few ‘trainings’. First, we played around with a zipline in the campground. We didn’t leave home thinking we were going to set one up so we really didn’t have the right equipment but we gave it a try anyway. Our mechanical system worked very well, but overall this setup failed miserably. Some important lessons were learned however:
- Zip lines are very difficult to setup using dynamic climbing rope!
- You need more tension than you think. Setup your mechanical system much closer to the middle of the active rope than you think
- You need more angle than you think due to the sag in the active rope
Hike up to Mount RosaPosted on September 30, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Chelsea, Gabi, and Mike hiked up to Mount Rosa near Colorado Springs on Thursday the 23rd. This hike, starting from the North Cheyenne Canyon parking lot, is 12 miles with 4000′ elevation gain. The leaves were changing for fall and the view up there is awesome! It’s one of the highest peaks in the area (baldy and Pikes notwithstanding) so we could see everything!
This mountain is now thought to be the actual mountain climbed by Zebulon Pike in 1806 rather than the nearby Pikes Peak. He set out from the south trying to reach the tallest point in the southern Front Range, and it is believed that he mistakenly climbed and camped in a cave just on the east side of Mount Rosa beneath the summit. As he reached the top, he discovered that the tallest point, Pikes Peak, was actually miles away to the West and many more mountains stood in his way.
On our way back we stopped by St. Mary’s Falls and refilled our water to use our Aquamira Frontier Pro inline filter.
Chelsea, Gabi, and Mike hiked up to Mount Rosa near Colorado Springs on Thursday the 23rd. This hike, starting from the North Cheyenne Canyon parking lot, is 12 miles with 4000′ elevation gain. The leaves were changing for fall and the view up there is awesome! It’s one of the highest peaks in the area (baldy and Pikes notwithstanding) so we could see everything!
This mountain is now thought to be the actual mountain climbed by Zebulon Pike in 1806 rather than the nearby Pikes Peak. He set out from the south trying to reach the tallest point in the southern Front Range, and it is believed that he mistakenly climbed and camped in a cave just on the east side of Mount Rosa beneath the summit. As he reached the top, he discovered that the tallest point, Pikes Peak, was actually miles away to the West and many more mountains stood in his way.
On our way back we stopped by St. Mary’s Falls and refilled our water to use our Aquamira Frontier Pro inline filter.
Our Powerbar Product has arrived!Posted on September 21, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
We got our powerbar product yesterday. This will make our training and racing filled with much more POWER. As you can see from the pictures, we were just a little happy about it. Mmmm… the gooey gelly goodness.
We got our powerbar product yesterday. This will make our training and racing filled with much more POWER. As you can see from the pictures, we were just a little happy about it. Mmmm… the gooey gelly goodness.
3rd Place in the Adventure Xstream SeriesPosted on September 20, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
In the 4 person coed division, we earned 3rd place in the Adventure Xstream series! We raced in Moab (12hr), Buena Vista (24hr), Durango (24hr), and Glenwood Springs (12hr). Not bad for our first year as a team. Many thanks to Tyler Daly and Norman Weeks for being our alternates!
In the 4 person coed division, we earned 3rd place in the Adventure Xstream series! We raced in Moab (12hr), Buena Vista (24hr), Durango (24hr), and Glenwood Springs (12hr). Not bad for our first year as a team. Many thanks to Tyler Daly and Norman Weeks for being our alternates!
4th Place Finish!!!Posted on September 14, 2010 by ChelseaLuttrall
Awesome race you guys! You were awesome! The only teams that beat our team were two local teams, and the number one team in the series (who we were neck and neck with!)! Fantastic Finish! And we are officially the 3rd place winners of the Adventure Xstream Series! Woohoo!! Thanks, Norm, for filling in for me on this one! We couldn’t have done it without you! Great season! I’m proud of you all! Someone post some pics…I don’t have any….
Awesome race you guys! You were awesome! The only teams that beat our team were two local teams, and the number one team in the series (who we were neck and neck with!)! Fantastic Finish! And we are officially the 3rd place winners of the Adventure Xstream Series! Woohoo!! Thanks, Norm, for filling in for me on this one! We couldn’t have done it without you! Great season! I’m proud of you all! Someone post some pics…I don’t have any….
Go TeamPosted on September 11, 2010 by ChelseaLuttrall
King’s Row – Checkpoint 3King’s Row – Checkpoint 3King’s Row – Checkpoint 3
In the cave section, our team was in 2nd position, following the first place team by 2 minutes! Go Team!!
King’s Row – Checkpoint 3King’s Row – Checkpoint 3King’s Row – Checkpoint 3
In the cave section, our team was in 2nd position, following the first place team by 2 minutes! Go Team!!
Race PrepPosted on September 11, 2010 by ChelseaLuttrall
The team’s been strategizin’ and organizin’ for the past 4 hours. They just completed the gear drop and are about to bed down for sweet dreams of adventure racing. Tomorrow’s race promises some fun things including river boarding, rappelling, caving, possible alpine slide?!…and of course the usual running, biking, and paddling. Good luck you guys!
The team’s been strategizin’ and organizin’ for the past 4 hours. They just completed the gear drop and are about to bed down for sweet dreams of adventure racing. Tomorrow’s race promises some fun things including river boarding, rappelling, caving, possible alpine slide?!…and of course the usual running, biking, and paddling. Good luck you guys!
Glenwood Springs RacePosted on September 10, 2010 by ChelseaLuttrall
The Glenwood Springs race is Saturday. We all leave tomorrow. Good luck team! I’ll be cheering for you all from the sidelines because of the shoulder issue. But, we’ll see you at the cave section, where we’ll be volunteering!….but don’t stop and talk! You have a race to run! :) Boogie like you’ve never boogie-boarded before!!…oh wait……… I know you’ll do well!
The Glenwood Springs race is Saturday. We all leave tomorrow. Good luck team! I’ll be cheering for you all from the sidelines because of the shoulder issue. But, we’ll see you at the cave section, where we’ll be volunteering!….but don’t stop and talk! You have a race to run! :) Boogie like you’ve never boogie-boarded before!!…oh wait……… I know you’ll do well!
“Training” Hike Up Pikes Peak via Crags for Us, Too!Posted on September 9, 2010 by James Luttrall
The Gateway
What I learned on Labor Day:
We may add some pics later, but they’d just be redundant, considering Mike & Tony’s post.
Big Mountain Adventure Racing – Adventure Events in Colorado
The Gateway
What I learned on Labor Day:
- Living in CO and having Pikes Peak in your back yard is incredible
- Just because Pikes Peak is in your back yard doesn’t mean climbing it is easy
- Never underestimate a 14er, even if it’s in your back yard
- With a good bit of determination, you may just be able to finish that 14er that MANY others turned back on due to 50+ mph winds and sub freezing temps
- Wearing shorts in aforementioned conditions is okay, as long as you have other layers for your upper body
- Not having enough layers for aforementioned conditions is bad
- Carrying two liters of water for two people is not enough to complete a 14er comfortably
- Doing nothing all summer due to a severely sprained ankle makes doing a 14er hurt… badly
We may add some pics later, but they’d just be redundant, considering Mike & Tony’s post.
Big Mountain Adventure Racing – Adventure Events in Colorado
High Drive night bikePosted on September 9, 2010 by gabilester
Rode up high drive and down gold camp… attempted towing my brother up the whole way, but instead he kept up with me!! Fun training… love the city view from gold camp road at night… just gotta watch out for the crazies up there (although guess we’re the crazy ones bikin’ up there at night with our headlamps )
<– Alex, my brother
Big Mountain Adventure Racing – Adventure Events in Colorado
Rode up high drive and down gold camp… attempted towing my brother up the whole way, but instead he kept up with me!! Fun training… love the city view from gold camp road at night… just gotta watch out for the crazies up there (although guess we’re the crazy ones bikin’ up there at night with our headlamps )
<– Alex, my brother
Big Mountain Adventure Racing – Adventure Events in Colorado
Hike up Pikes Peak from The CragsPosted on September 4, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Hey there! Mike and Tony hiked up Pikes Peak for a some high altitude training today via the Crags. Funny story actually… neither one of us had used hiked the backside of Pikes Peak via the crags before, so we figured you’d pass the Crags on the way up to Pikes Peak. Not so much. That’s a separate trail we ended up having to do out and back so that tacked on about 3 miles to our trip. However, the Crags are very nice! We found a great place to visit again soon so we weren’t mad.
Surprisingly, this was only the second time we had both been up Pikes Peak. The last time Mike was up there was about 6 years ago and the clouds rolled in so we missed out on the beautiful view to the west.
The trip ended up being about 15.5 miles and 4830′ elevation gain. Good times!
Pikes Pike via Crags Description
Crags Hike Description
14ers.com description
Hey there! Mike and Tony hiked up Pikes Peak for a some high altitude training today via the Crags. Funny story actually… neither one of us had used hiked the backside of Pikes Peak via the crags before, so we figured you’d pass the Crags on the way up to Pikes Peak. Not so much. That’s a separate trail we ended up having to do out and back so that tacked on about 3 miles to our trip. However, the Crags are very nice! We found a great place to visit again soon so we weren’t mad.
Surprisingly, this was only the second time we had both been up Pikes Peak. The last time Mike was up there was about 6 years ago and the clouds rolled in so we missed out on the beautiful view to the west.
The trip ended up being about 15.5 miles and 4830′ elevation gain. Good times!
Pikes Pike via Crags Description
Crags Hike Description
14ers.com description
Mount Muscoco RunPosted on September 3, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Mike and Gabi did a ‘weighted run’ up to Mount Muscoco last night. We loaded 20lbs of weights into our packs and hauled butt up the mountain until the trail got too difficult to run. Man that was difficult! Once we enjoyed the views of North and South Cheyenne Canyon, Cheyenne Mountain, Seven Falls, and Gold Camp Reservoir we headed back down with headlamps and enjoyed the view of Colorado Springs at night. Forgot to take pictures (doh!) so I put in some stock pics; and no, it’s not snowy here right now – they are just older pics.
2.98 miles with 1074ft Elevation Gain
Mike and Gabi did a ‘weighted run’ up to Mount Muscoco last night. We loaded 20lbs of weights into our packs and hauled butt up the mountain until the trail got too difficult to run. Man that was difficult! Once we enjoyed the views of North and South Cheyenne Canyon, Cheyenne Mountain, Seven Falls, and Gold Camp Reservoir we headed back down with headlamps and enjoyed the view of Colorado Springs at night. Forgot to take pictures (doh!) so I put in some stock pics; and no, it’s not snowy here right now – they are just older pics.
2.98 miles with 1074ft Elevation Gain
August 2010 (4)
Our website is getting fleshed outPosted on August 31, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
We’re doing our best to get content on every page. So far we’ve got the blog and email newsletter working, and our homepage, team page, event page, privacy policy, and sponsor page are now active. Expect more content to come!
Big Mountain Adventure Racing – Adventure Events in Colorado
We’re doing our best to get content on every page. So far we’ve got the blog and email newsletter working, and our homepage, team page, event page, privacy policy, and sponsor page are now active. Expect more content to come!
Big Mountain Adventure Racing – Adventure Events in Colorado
BMAR Sponsored by Power Bar Team ElitePosted on August 30, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
The Big Mountain Adventure Racing Team is proudly sponsored by Power Bar Team Elite! We are part of PowerBar Team Elite for 2010-2011.
” Congratulations, on behalf of PowerBar, we are thrilled to offer you a spot on the 2010-2011 PowerBar Team Elite program. After reviewing your application, we feel you embody the passion and dedication to your sport that we look for in our athlete ambassadors. Additionally we believe you will represent our brand in a positive manner in your community and beyond. The enthusiasm you exhibit for our products was quite evident from your application as well. We hope you will join us as an active member of the PowerBar Team Elite program for the next two years. ”
We’re very honored to be part of the PowerBar Elite Team!
Big Mountain Adventure Racing – Adventure Events in Colorado
The Big Mountain Adventure Racing Team is proudly sponsored by Power Bar Team Elite! We are part of PowerBar Team Elite for 2010-2011.
” Congratulations, on behalf of PowerBar, we are thrilled to offer you a spot on the 2010-2011 PowerBar Team Elite program. After reviewing your application, we feel you embody the passion and dedication to your sport that we look for in our athlete ambassadors. Additionally we believe you will represent our brand in a positive manner in your community and beyond. The enthusiasm you exhibit for our products was quite evident from your application as well. We hope you will join us as an active member of the PowerBar Team Elite program for the next two years. ”
We’re very honored to be part of the PowerBar Elite Team!
Big Mountain Adventure Racing – Adventure Events in Colorado
BMAR Blog Now Linked to the Home PagePosted on August 29, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
The most recent entries are now listed on the home page. Exciting stuff!
The most recent entries are now listed on the home page. Exciting stuff!
Welcome to the Big Mountain Adventure Racing BlogPosted on August 29, 2010 by BMAR Admin (Mike)
Please register and comment on our entries!
Please register and comment on our entries!