When I heard about the inaugural KEEN Vail Kids Adventure Race last year, I knew my 6-year-old daughter Hadley simply had to try it.
This is her year.
On Saturday, August 13, 2011, kids ages six through 12 will get a fun introduction to adventure racing. Teams of two work together to navigate a variety of sports and and problem-solving challenges, including mountain biking, hiking, tubing, archery, a low ropes course, a zip line, a climbing wall, a Tarzan swing, a giant slip-n-slide and more. Competitors will be divided into three waves based on age and will start at set intervals. An after party and awards ceremony will take place immediately following the race.
I don’t know about you but I wish they had this race for adults!
Despite the fun factor, I had fears my 6-year-old was ready to tackle it last year but my worries were in vain. While there are some kids who are serious competitors, most are out there to have a fun adventure. Parents are permitted to accompany their child throughout the race to watch the different challenges but are asked to refrain from helping them. A large fleet of volunteers is on-hand to provide assistance.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUpGwZcViB4]
My daughter Hadley will be competing with our neighbor Sydney. While most kids are slacking off this summer, I’m thrilled they’ll be setting worthwhile training goals and having a great time achieving them. We’ve even recruited a few other friends to compete in the older divisions.
The cost is $150 per team of two. Registration includes a 2011 KEEN Vail Kids Adventure Race backpack and other goodies. Registration is limited to 100 teams of two kids. To register, download the registration form and fax to (970) 479-2281 or email it to bpappas@vailrec.com.
Go to http://www.vailrec.com/kidsadventurerace.cfm for additional information.
I'm a Canadian-born mom of two, former Denver Post columnist, family travel writer, editor of MileHighMamas.com and 9News contributor. Expert on all things Utah, Denver, family and travel. Lover of laughter and life. Happily married to a man obsessed with growing The Great Pumpkin. 