At the AR Immersion, you will learn the foundations of adventure racing (which include navigation, mountain biking, paddling, and trekking) by doing those things with people who live and breathe it. This 1-day clinic is geared toward those wanting to get into the sport for the first time but is also useful for those ready to try a 24-hour AR
Professional instruction in navigation, paddling, biking, and trekking
Confidence and skills to tackle the Shenandoah Epic or your next 24-hour adventure race
Sample maps and rules of travel
A great day out in the woods with like-minded folks running, paddling, and biking
Hands-on practice with map & compass
Personalized feedback from experienced adventure racers
Detailed skills checklist and race-day gear checklist to take home
Teamwork and race strategy coaching for beginners
Guidance on nutrition, hydration, and race-day preparation
Q&A with instructors and experienced racers
Networking with other new racers
Adventure Enablers and Do
Schedule
8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Check-in & Welcome
* Registration and gear check
* Meet the instructors and fellow participants
* Overview of the day
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM: Introduction to Adventure Racing
* Clinic goals and safety briefing
* Adventure race basics: disciplines, navigation, teamwork
* Sample maps and Rules of Travel
* Mandatory gear
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Navigation & Map Skills
* Reading topo maps and using a compass
* Route planning and strategy
* Practice: mini navigation challenge on foot
11:00 AM – 12:30 AM: Paddling Techniques
* Canoe/kayak basics: strokes, steering, safety
* On-water practice session
12:30 AM – 1:15 PM: Lunch
1:15 PM – 3:30 PM: Mountain Biking Skills
* Bike fit, basic maintenance
* Trail riding techniques and safety
* Practice: mini navigation challenge on bike
3:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Teamwork & Race Strategy
* Communication, roles, and pacing
* Problem-solving challenges
4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Debrief & Q&A
* Group reflection on lessons learned
* Tips for future races
* Open Q&A with instructors
4:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Wrap-up & Networking
* Share resources and contacts
* Clinic feedback and next steps