THE COURSE

Athletes will receive laminated maps that have checkpoints pre-marked before the race. You will navigate between checkpoints using the map and compass. Teams must check in at all checkpoints and the finish line together. Segments will be categorized as either a run, bike, or swim/paddle discipline. Keep in mind that you may have multiple running, biking, and swim/paddling legs that alternate throughout the race. Also, unlike a relay, 2, 3 or 4-person teams compete together the entire race. This is a point-to-point race, there is no central transition area so plan accordingly.

HOW IT WILL WORK:

Until shortly before the race, all you’ll know about this year’s Gut Check is that it will combine running, cycling, navigating and water crossing (paddleboard or swimming) in Nickerson State Park. You will present yourself at designated checkpoints along the way. Expect a finishing time of 1.5 to 2 hours. Whether you compete solo or with a group of your friends (2, 3 or 4 persons), the objective is to use your wits and fitness to scramble your way (including 92 steps built into a cliff) to the finish.

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE?

Prepare yourself for this event by training to be capable of trail running and biking for about two hours.  There will be no more than two swim segments, and each swim segment will be approximately 1/4 mile. Biking elevations range from -5% to 8% grades, running elevations up to 18% grade. You can choose between swimming or paddleboarding. Bring your own, or a limited supply will be available to rent. Be prepared for a mile+ of paddling or half a mile+ of swimming. Be prepared to read and follow the supplied trail map.   There will be four race categories: solo, two-person, three-person and four-person. All members of a team must remain in close contact and finish at the same time.

DISTANCES

Be prepared to:

Paddle 1.9 - 2.5 miles or Swim .5 - 1.0 miles

Bike (steep hills) 3 - 6 miles

Run (technical trails) 4 - 7 miles

RECOMMENDED GEAR

Marker to be used on laminated map

Long pants, tights or leg protection

Sunglasses or hat

Bug spray

Sunscreen

Compass

Dry bag or safe swimmer buoy with inner compartment

GEAR LIST

Road Bike

Bike Helmet

Paddle board w/ paddle or surf board

Life vest or safe-swimmer buoy

If swimming; dry bag for shoes, map etc.

Running (or trail) shoes that don't mind getting wet

We'll supply the laminated map

2023 Results at: webscorer.com 
2022 Results at: webscorer.com
2021 Results at: webscorer.com 

2020 Results: Cancelled Due To Covid-19
2019 Results at: neeevents.com
2018 Results at: athlinks.com
2017 Results at: archive.org 
2016 Results at: athlinks.com
2015 Results at: athlinks.com or athlinks.com
2014 Results at athlinks.com: Triathlon / Duathlon