CIA Central Indiana Adventure Race

Event Overview

The MISSION 18HR is an 18-hour adventure race organized by DINO, held at Deam Lake State Recreation Area. It is described as Indiana's longest-running annual adventure race. Participants travel by foot, bicycle, and canoe in teams of two or three, or as solo racers, using map and compass to navigate to checkpoints. All team members must stay within 100 feet of each other at all times.

Course Details

The course involves navigation using UTM coordinates on 1:25,000 scale maps, cycling (on and off-road), trekking, paddling, and special challenges. A ropes/climbing element is specified as part of the 18-hour event but will not be included in the 2025 race. Scoring is based on the total number of checkpoints visited, with penalties for missed points. The midnight finish is a cutoff time; late finishers are penalized.

Participation Details

• There are team divisions for 2-person and 3-person teams, categorized as co-ed, female, or male.
• A solo division is also offered, but applicants must provide a resume of relevant experience for approval.
• The total field is limited to 50 teams per race length.
• Registration fees include a pre-race meal on Friday night and a post-race recovery meal.
• Participants must be self-sufficient with food and water during the event.
• A $5.00 Off-road Cycling Permit (ORC) is required from the state park for each cyclist without an annual permit.

Rules and Gear

A detailed mandatory gear list is provided for items that must be carried by each person or team. This includes navigation tools, safety equipment, bicycle gear, and paddling equipment (boats, PFDs, and some paddles are provided). The use of GPS devices that can display a map, coordinates, speed, or distance is prohibited, though basic GPS trackers, altimeters, and bicycle computers are allowed. Smartphones may only be used for emergencies or taking photos and must otherwise be turned off. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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