Set yourself a real challenge

Adventure racing is all the rage at the moment, with events like the inaugural Bantry Adventure Race taking place next week and SCAR (Skibbereen’s Charity Adventure Race) coming up again on October 15th. 

If you’re really looking for a way to challenge yourself, but want to have some fun as well,  then an adventure race is the way to go.

To give beginners a chance to prepare, I’ve chosen SCAR ’16 as our next target event, and I’ll be outlining a comprehensive training plan over the coming weeks.

SCAR is a multi-disciplined adventure race which takes places in the beautiful and rugged environs of Skibbereen, Castletownshend, Lough Hyne and the Wild Atlantic coastline that defines this stunning part of West Cork. 

SCAR is unique from any other adventure race because it is managed by a special team on behalf of the Skibbereen Lions Club and is a not-for-profit event. 100% of the race fees will be donated to local charities.

The race takes place on Saturday October 15th and once again it will attract some of the top adventure racers in the country. That said, it is also suited to complete beginners and intermediates by virtue of the three course options to choose from. The ‘Taster’ – a 5k run and 12k bike is ideal for beginners, while the ‘Sport’ option, which involves a 12k run, 21k bike and 1k kayak is tailored for those with some experience. The third option, the ‘Expert’, involves a 21k run, 54k bike & 1k kayak.

Adventure racing

So what exactly is it, and why is it sweeping the country. Typically, an adventure race is a one day multi-discipline race, usually on rugged terrain. It gives competitors the chance to challenge themselves by hill running/hiking, cycling and kayaking in what is usually stunning scenery – something of which there is no shortage in Ireland.

No two adventure races are the same and the race format is truly only limited by the imagination of the race directors. Good directors will come up with ideas that surprise even the most experienced racers. When it comes to adventure, SCAR has it all. I have taken part in this race twice and personally I believe it is hard to beat.

Starting from this week, You can follow my eight-week plan for the ‘Sport’ option which will bring you up to race day.

The ‘Sport’ starts in Liss Ard estate with a 4k run through the woodlands; then you mount your bike and cycle 10k to Lough Hyne Woodlands on tarmaced roads; run 6k up the through the woods on forest paths; jump back on your bike and cycle 11k back to Liss Ard estate; run 1k to the finish line.

SCAR training

Week One 

Mon 22/08 to Sun 28/08

Mon – Run 4k 

Tues – Rest

Wed – Bike 12-15k

Thurs – Cross-train (Hill Walk)

Fri  – Run 4k

Sat – Bike 15-20k

Sun – Rest

Ideally, try to do your running on woodland/slightly rugged terrain.