Gut Check Adventure Triathlon - Brewster, Massachusetts - Triathlon

The Gut Check Adventure Triathlon is a Triathlon race in Brewster, Massachusetts consisting of a Adventure Race.

EVENT INFORMATION
The Gut Check is a point-to-point adventure race within Cape Cod's 2000-acre DCR Nickerson State Park. Each year, the "course" is different a" and no one knows exactly what it will be until shortly before the race. You receive a map to get you through checkpoints to the finish line. Just know that it will be an endurance workout you won't soon forget!

WARNING!
This is a race for intermediate athletes. Expect cold water, steep hills and difficult cliffside running trails paved with tree roots. While there will be emergency medical support on-site, all participants race at their own risk.

Athlete's Guide: http://www.neeevents.com/triathlon/inside-the-new-gut-check-adventure-race/

THE COURSE
Athletes will receive laminated maps that have checkpoints pre-marked before the race. You will navigate between checkpoints using the map and compass. Teams must check in at all checkpoints and the finish line together. Segments will be categorized as either a run, bike, or swim/paddle discipline. Keep in mind that you may have multiple running, biking, and swim/paddling legs that alternate throughout the race. Also, unlike a relay, 2, 3 or 4-person teams compete together the entire race. This is a point-to-point race, there is no central transition area so plan accordingly.

HOW IT WILL WORK:
Until shortly before the race, all you'll know about this year's Gut Check is that it will combine running, cycling, navigating and water crossing (paddleboard or swimming) in Nickerson State Park. You will present yourself at designated checkpoints along the way. Expect a finishing time of 1.5 to 2 hours. Whether you compete solo or with a group of your friends (2, 3 or 4 persons), the objective is to use your wits and fitness to scramble your way (including 92 steps built into a cliff) to the finish.

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE?
Prepare yourself for this event by training to be capable of trail running and biking for about two hours. There will be no more than two swim segments, and each swim segment will be approximately 1/4 mile. Biking elevations range from -5% to 8% grades, running elevations up to 18% grade. You can choose between swimming or paddleboarding. Bring your own, or a limited supply will be available to rent. Be prepared for a mile+ of paddling or half a mile+ of swimming. Be prepared to read and follow the supplied trail map. There will be four race categories: solo, two-person, three-person and four-person. All members of a team must remain in close contact and finish at the same time.

DISTANCES
Be prepared to:

Paddle 1.9 - 2.5 miles or Swim .5 - 1.0 miles

Bike (steep hills) 3 - 6 miles

Run (technical trails) 4 - 7 miles