Uwharrie 5 Hour Adventure Race
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Event overview
The Uwharrie Adventure Races take place at Morrow Mountain State Park in Albemarle, NC. The program includes two 5-hour formats and a 12-hour event. The 5-hour options pair hiking with either biking or paddling; hiking legs are listed as 5–7 miles and bike or paddle legs as 3–6 miles. The 12-hour race includes hiking, biking and paddling but specific distances are not listed.
Format and navigation
Racers may enter solo or as teams of two to four. Teams must complete tasks together and remain close to one another unless the race director specifies otherwise. Competitors navigate to a series of checkpoints placed on natural features such as hilltops, stream intersections, coves or trail junctions. Pre-plotted CalTopo maps are used for navigation. The 5-hour races start and finish at the picnic shelter; the 12-hour event uses the group camp area.
Gear, safety and logistics
All participants must sign a release and waiver; minors must race with an adult. Required individual gear includes food and fluids, a writing implement, knife, whistle, headlamp with extra batteries and a cell phone in a waterproof case. Team-required items include a canoe or kayak (teams must provide their own or rent from NCARS; rentals are limited), a compass, a watch and a basic first aid kit. The 12-hour event specifies a functional mountain bike and a CPSC-marked helmet for bike sections and a Type I, II or III PFD while paddling. Food and drinks are provided after the race and winners are announced on site. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
