What is the Canadian Adventure Racing Association (ARA)?

The Canadian ARA is registered Canadian amateur athletic association (RCAAA) under section 248(1) of the Income Tax Act. As such, we are a non-profit, charitable organization owned and directed by its members.

What is Adventure Racing?

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Adventure racing can be defined as a non-stop, multi-day, mult-sport, mixed team event. In many ways it can be likened to an expedition with a stopwatch. The goal of the competition is to be the first team to get all members across the finish line together. The course should take competitors through remote wilderness where they must travel without outside assistance. Each team must strategize to determine the best route, equipment, food, and pace needed to win. Since a significant part of the challenge is in the planning and problem solving, race information is given on a "need to know" basis only. In many cases, participants are not given the starting point of the race until 24 hours before the race begins. Consequently, good problem solving and planning skills are integral to a team's success. Plans must be executed quickly and efficiently during the competition. The ideal race format is to drop all of the teams in a remote location with equipment and maps with two labels: point A (their location) and point B (the finish line). In actual practice, each event makes a number of compromises to this format to ensure safety and to simplify logistics.

Mission Statement

The Canadian ARA is committed to working with Canadian race directors, racers, and associated industrial partners to promote adventure racing in Canada and ensure its sustainability. We are also committed to the promotion of an environmental consciousness within the sport, and an increased emphasis on safe racing.

Who We Are

Executive Director

(vacant)

Board of Directors

J.D. Heffern
Chris Koch
Wayne Leek
Jim Mandelli
Sophia Tsouros
Liza Pye
Jason Vurma

Newsletter Editors

(vacant)

CARA Platinum Sponsors
Xilarate	Timberland
CARA Gold Sponsor
Simon River Sports

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