Press release for Ulitmate Outdoor Adventures, 931 words, 2004

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media challenge offers a free opportunity to try the world's fastest growing sport

MAPLE RIDGE, B.C. -- Outdoor enthusiasts and athletes of all levels can find adventure in the forests May 15 and 16 during the first annual West Coast Adventure Race and Mountain Bike Orienteering Challenge.

Organized by Ultimate Outdoor Adventures, the events take place in east Maple Ridge and Mission, about 60 kilometres east of Vancouver. The West Coast Adventure Race - a combination of navigation, trail running, biking, kayaking and other challenges - includes course options ranging from non-competitive to advanced. A similar range of course options is offered in the Mountain Bike Orienteering Challenge, which blends navigation and mountain biking.

The common denominator between the two events is orienteering, which involves plotting a route through unfamiliar terrain using a detailed map and compass. Participants will have to track down multiple checkpoints as they make their way through the course.

"It will have a treasure hunt spirit to it," explained Jackie Slavenova, the co-organizer, course designer and award-winning orienteering competitor. "It will not only be testing their endurance, it will test their navigation and intellectual limits."