How Do-Able is a Race Like Storm For Me?

Very do-able!  The term ‘adventure racing’ is often immediately associated with extreme tests of endurance lasting through the night or over several days. While these types of events represent adventure racing in its purest form, Storm is a very different version of the concept - specifically designed to be accessible to a wider audience. The elements are similar (paddling, mountain biking, trekking), but scaled to be far less intense. And with 3 separate racecourse options varying in distance and degree of difficulty, we've got something for everyone from seasoned racers to absolute beginners!

Which Course Should I Do?

The ‘Hike’ short-course is our introductory-level race - specifically designed to be a means of testing the waters of adventure racing.  It's become known for being so beginner-friendly that we've even seen a recent trend of parent-child teams taking part (some with kids as young as 8 or 9).  The next level up is the 'Trek' course, which typically features longer distances and more challenging terrain.  The 'Trek Elite' course is the advanced version of the Trek, and packs in a pretty full day of adventure while also adding some slightly more difficult elements of navigation and route-finding.  Compare the distances by discipline for a typical Storm race:

	Trekking Legs	Biking Legs	Paddle Legs
'Hike' (3-5 hours)	6-8km	25-30km	5-6km
'Trek' (4-7 hours)	10-12km	35-40km	6-8km
'Trek Elite' (6-9 hours)	14-16km	50-55km	8-10km

*NOTE* these figures represent the typical range for total length of each discipline - each may be broken up into multiple stages.

Are There Age Restrictions?

Our only age restrictions are that racers under the age of 16 competing in the 'Hike' course must be on a team with an adult.  The same applies for racers under 18 years of age competing in the 'Trek' and 'Trek Elite' races.  In 2018 we introduced a new Family Category for the 'Hike' course, which is offered to parent-child teams of 2 or 4 with racers under 13 years of age. Eligible teams may self-select the Family Category as the race division they compete in, although it is a completely optional choice. Family teams of four are permitted to paddle 4 in a canoe. 

How Hard is the 'Orienteering'?

While it varies between the three racecourses, the simple answer is not hard at all,  In fact, it’s not really actual orienteering (this again, is a common association with adventure racing). Yes - there are maps; there is a requirement to carry a compass; and there will be some sections not marked with race markers, but these will be really no different than making your way through a conservation area or trail system that you’ve not been to before.  Basically it's just a matter of following along with the features on the map to ensure that you’re always aware of your location on it, as you pass between checkpoints.  No advanced-level navigation skills required, but unlike fully-marked racing events, you just need to keep your head in the game a little more!  Click here for some helpful tips and tricks related to maps at a Storm Racing event.

How Technical is the Mountain Biking?

The mountain biking legs on each of the three racecourse options vary in both their distance and level of difficulty, but none feature any extreme technical singletrack or anything that would be outside the ability level of anyone who’s ridden a mountain bike before. On most courses, there may be elements of rugged ATV/snowmobile trail riding (often wet and muddy!) but these are combined with open doubletrack, back-road routes and even paved sections.  Riding on mountain bike tires and forks with front suspension is generally recommended, but not mandatory,  Hybrid bikes have been used on past 'Hike' courses, but this would not be advised for the 'Trek' and Trek Elite' events.

What's With the Kayak Paddles in the Canoes?

Paddling is typically the weakest of all adventure race disciplines, as it's the one that usually gets the least amount of practice.  However, use of kayak paddles in canoes is allowed at Storm, and it can be a significant advantage for teams if you are not strong with traditional single-blade canoe paddles. The kayak paddle technique is generally more natural for beginner paddlers, and can allow for greater stoke efficiency between team members. However, it is important that the paddle you use be extendable, or that it have a longer shaft to account for the extra height from which you sit in a canoe (versus a kayak, which is lower to the water).