_ The 2018 Clark Fork Adventure Challenge:

Are you ready to Run, Row & Ride your way through some of the most scenic areas of Western Montana.

The event begins with a scenic run starting at the Sanders County Fairgrounds and follows the meandering Clark Fork River on the River Road East county maintained road. This 8 mile run is paved with beautiful mountain and river views along the entire course. The aid stations will be located at approximately the two (2) mile marker and the five (5) mile marker along the course. At the end of the run, after crossing the BNSF train tracks, River Road east intersects with Highway 200 and runners will cross over the Clark Fork River and transition to the rowing portion of the Challenge at the Paradise boat launch on the east side of Paradise, MT.

The 8 mile rowing course winds back down the Clark Fork River where participants will get a different perspective of the beauty of the valley as the head back to the starting point of the race. This section of river is expected to be very calm this time of year, but has a steady current to help racers move quickly through this section of the event. Rowers will pass under the bridge just before the Sanders County Fairgrounds and land on the designated beach on the left.

From the beach racers will run up to the mountain bike staging area and begin a 14.5 mile ride up into the mountains south of Plains. This course is designed for the intermediate mountain biker who enjoys both forest road riding and some single track off-road adventure. The first three (3) miles is a rough gravel climb on a forest road before heading back into non-motorized country where riders will encouter both roads and game trails while they wind through the forested lands. Mid-way through the ride racers will encounter the more technical portions of the ride with some of the more challenging vertical gain and loss along the course. Riders should expect rough terrain, rocks, and vegetation along the course. There will be at least two (2) aid stations located along the bike course, but they will contain limited hydration and nutrition supplements and minimal first aid supplies.

Restroom and Aid Stations will be provided at the Start/Finish and at each transition point.

The race will be chip timed thanks to Competitive Timing. Prizes will be presented for both top individual finishers and top team finishers. Recognition will also be given to winners in age groups spread out in 10 year increments. All finishers will receive a screen printed tee shirt from Clark Fork Valley Hospital Foundation.

The entire course will be signed clearly with visible marker/signs. Transitions will have timing mats and at aid stations we will have check-in points to ensure safety of all racers.

The Sanders County Fairgrounds, where the event is based, has camping facilities where you can pitch a tent or park a camper. There is lots to do in the little town of Plains as would be expected in typical Montana hospitality. There will be booths, food vendors, and information about the area.

Race packets may be picked up on the 15th of September between noon and 6 p.m. and the day of the race starting at 6:30 a.m. The race will begin at 9 a.m. sharp.

Are you up for the challenge?