The Coastal Experiences: A Destination Event for Outdoor Enthusiasts
For Active.com
Costa Rica's The Coastal Experiences has just announced their 2nd annual race dates, October 12 to 19, and they are now open for registration! Last year's October event was a huge success bringing in runners from 17 states and five countries.
Different from its week long ultrarunning sister race, The Coastal Challenge, this is an internationally staged race over the course of five days that covers a total of 40K. The seven-day adventure includes five 5K to 10K racing days, seven nights lodging, rafting, rappelling, zip-lining, kayaking and snorkeling.
Event Director Tim Holmstrom has been producing and staging events in Costa Rica for five years and Race Director Merritt Hopper has logistical and operational experience from races like The Eco Challenge, Primal Quest and The Coastal Challenge. Holmstrom and Hopper have been providing runners and outdoor enthusiasts with unique adventures throughout remote areas of Costa Rica for years; they are excited to add this event to the list.
"The response from running enthusiasts to this twist on racing meets week long adventure has been extremely positive", said Hopper.
After working out the first year's kinks, race directors of the "TCE" have fine tuned the itinerary, sharpened daily courses and added some extra adventure incentive for those that missed it last time around. This year, the race will incorporate two days of rafting on the famous Pacuare River. Racers will have the opportunity to raft Class III and IV rapids while lodging on the river. Also, lodging upgrades and a new option for horseback riding on day two will bring some welcomed twists and additions to the week long adventure.
Every morning starts with a 5 to 10K race, and every afternoon promises a variety of adventures that include: whitewater rafting, kayaking, snorkeling, and trekking through rainforests and along volcano rims, all while winding your way through Costa Rica's diverse landscape.
The week begins with a 6K run near and around the volcano of Irazu in San Jose and finishes with a "tough beach course" that leads to the trip's final destination in Puerto Viejo.
"We are pioneering an event that changes the way people think about combining 5K and 10K racing with international vacations," said Hopper. "This type of experience is not just for the pros anymore."
The Directors for TCE could not have been happier with the turnout and success stories from last year's race. Whether it was an Ironman athlete running six-minute miles or the group that hiked the entire course and bonded along the way, TCE is confident that this race is for anyone up to the challenge. Beach, trail, dirt road and botanical garden courses consume your early morning. Camping, resort stays, daily activities and evening camaraderie consume the rest.
If you sign up through Active.com before April 1, last year's registration price of $1099 will be honored. After April 1, registration will increase to $1250.
Whether you're a veteran racer, marathoner or just getting your feet wet with hometown 5K races, this week is designed for anyone and everyone interested in seeing Costa Rica in a whole new light. Get ready to take your racing experience to a whole new level.
For a full itinerary go to: http://www.thecoastalexperiences.com/itinerary.htm
For questions, contact Merritt Hopper at 917-328-6472 or info@thecoastalexperiences.com.
What do you think? Share your thoughts and comments about this race.