ERCA & ROTARY LAUNCH THE SCAR
If you think a mud run is fun, then get ready, because in 2014, the Essex Region Conservation Authority and the Rotary Club of Windsor St. Clair will team up to launch the region’s first multi-sport adventure race – The SCAR (South Coast Adventure Race).
“The South Coast Adventure Race promises to be nothing short of spectacular,” enthuses Danielle Breault Stuebing, ERCA’s Director of Community Outreach Services. “The 70 kilometre course will take you through beautiful conservation areas, along rural roads and down gorgeous creeks – expect the unexpected during this 5 – 8 hour race course.”
The event will take place on Saturday, June 21, 2014 beginning at Holiday Beach Conservation Area in Amherstburg, Ontario. “Disciplines include cycling, paddling, trekking, orienteering, and obstacles,” explains Vicki Houston, President of the Rotary Club of Windsor-St. Clair. “We wanted to be as inclusive as possible, so we will provide pre-marked maps, canoes, PFDs and paddles for all of our participants.” With the increased popularity in cycling, triathlons, marathons and mud-runs in our region, the organizations thought this would be a great complement to those existing activities.
Teams of two or three participants can complete in all male, all female or co-ed categories. A unique feature of this event is a youth category for teams of three aged 13 – 17. “Youth teams can compete on a slightly modified course that still has all of the great adventures featured along our main course,” Breault Stuebing goes on to say. “Since both Rotary and ERCA have a focus on physical activity for youth in outdoor spaces, we thought this would be a terrific addition to our event.” One parent chaperone must be available on the race course for each youth team.
This race is also appropriate for beginner level adventure racers. “Of course, you’ll need to train for the race, but luckily, our course is flat and fast,” she adds. “Anyone in good physical condition, who can cycle at least 20Km, should be able to complete this course. And of course, your safety is our top priority, so we will have sweep vehicles and safety personnel monitoring our participants.” Registration fees range from $75 – 100 per team member, and include all race support, canoe rentals, a t-shirt, and a post-race bash and awards ceremony.
Funds raised will be used to enhance visitor services at local Conservation Areas; and to implement local and worldwide community service projects. To learn more about this event, visit www.erca.org/scar-south-coast-adventure-race.