This September, as the trees of the North Country transform from green to a brilliant mixture of red, orange and yellow, athletes from around New England will flock to the region to test themselves in one of the most challenging and enjoyable athletic events in the Northeast.
The Metallak Race is a unique three-stage endurance event that involves mountain biking, kayaking and running (or, maybe, walking) along a course that winds through some of the most beautiful areas in northern New Hampshire. Popular among both experienced racers and first-time athletes, the scenic race is an outdoor-lover’s dream.
The race combines many of the concepts of a traditional adventure race with a well-marked route, so competitors don’t need to navigate the terrain on their own. Athletes can choose between the 8-hour course, which is nearly 50 miles long, or the 4-hour course, which covers nearly 30 miles. They can also choose to race solo, as a two-person tandem team or as part of a relay team of up to four members.
Much of the biking during the race will take place on trails and roads. Because of the varied terrain, mountain bikes are recommended, but competitors can also use gravel bikes.
You don’t need to own a canoe or kayak to take part in the paddling portion of the race. Boats are provided for racers, with solo racers paddling in kayaks and teams using canoes.
Both courses begin and end at Mohawk Falls, where on-site camping will be available. Mohawk Falls will also have local food, craft beer and a spectator-friendly race transition area, making the event as fun for friends and family as it is for the racers they are cheering on.
This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, September 15. To learn more about the Metallak Race, visit the race website at www.metallakrace.com.
The Metallak Race is a unique three-stage endurance event that involves mountain biking, kayaking and running (or, maybe, walking) along a course that winds through some of the most beautiful areas in northern New Hampshire. Popular among both experienced racers and first-time athletes, the scenic race is an outdoor-lover’s dream.
The race combines many of the concepts of a traditional adventure race with a well-marked route, so competitors don’t need to navigate the terrain on their own. Athletes can choose between the 8-hour course, which is nearly 50 miles long, or the 4-hour course, which covers nearly 30 miles. They can also choose to race solo, as a two-person tandem team or as part of a relay team of up to four members.
Much of the biking during the race will take place on trails and roads. Because of the varied terrain, mountain bikes are recommended, but competitors can also use gravel bikes.
You don’t need to own a canoe or kayak to take part in the paddling portion of the race. Boats are provided for racers, with solo racers paddling in kayaks and teams using canoes.
Both courses begin and end at Mohawk Falls, where on-site camping will be available. Mohawk Falls will also have local food, craft beer and a spectator-friendly race transition area, making the event as fun for friends and family as it is for the racers they are cheering on.
This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, September 15. To learn more about the Metallak Race, visit the race website at www.metallakrace.com.