Expedition Update

The Xstream Expedition 2008
Update #1

Dear Athletes,

Expedition adventure racing will once again return to the canyons, deserts, and mountains surrounding Moab, UT. Adventure Xstream™ The Expedition will take athletes through ~250-300 miles of the most spectacular terrain that the country has to offer. We welcome all of you to the series finale of the 2008 AdventureXstream Series.

Teams from across the country and around the world, all with varying degrees of experience will see first hand the splendor that the Utah canyon lands have to offer. Whether you are an elite adventure racer or simply an aspiring one, this magnificent course will be an experience that you will not soon forget.

Red Cliffs Adventure Lodge will again play host to the 4 day event, providing a fantastically unique and memorable venue. The lodge will allow support crews and spectators as well as competing teams the ability to experience "up-close" all of the action as it unfolds. Athletes will hike, bike, kayak, rappel, and navigate through this course while abiding by strict environmental rules and Leave No Trace ethics.

From all of us at AdventureXstream, we look forward to seeing you in September. The most beautiful time of year in Moab!

Appreciably,
Will Newcomer
Race Director
Gravity Play Sports


AdventureXstream - The Xstream Expedition
September 25th - 28th, 2008
Moab, UT USA

Fast Facts:



1. Important Dates & Deadlines


2. Format

While there will be a wide range of abilities among teams, this race is not for beginners! Your team must be proficient in all of the disciplines and in excellent physical and mental condition to safely navigate the course.


3. Race Course

The race course is ~250-300 miles in length. The course will wind its way through the spectacular canyon country near Moab. Teams will be treated to arches and spires as the Colorado river meanders through the desert landscape. At the same time athletes will encounter a completely opposite terrain as they make their way through the Manti La Sal mountains reaching an elevations of 12,000 feet. In October any weather conditions are possible, from extreme heat in the canyons to snow and freezing in the mountains. Teams who train and prepare accordingly will reap the rewards.

Teams will be using the Aire Tomcat Tandem kayaks for the paddling sections. Each team will paddle in tandem during all water legs of the course. You can view the specifics of the kayaks at www.aire.com. We are pleased to offer these boats as it will provide for a level playing field for all teams. It will also reduce the cost and transportation issues of having to provide your own boats. Teams will paddle in flat-water and whitewater conditions, strainers, rocks, sand bars and other hazards will be encountered.

The mountain biking sections will take place on jeep roads and trails. Teams will also spend a good amount of time on their feet throughout the race. Navigation will be critical in selecting the best route. Make sure you hone your skills now.

The ropes section of the event will consist of a spectacular Rappel and will be the highlight for many teams. Figure Eights or ATC's are required.

4. Certifications

Certification forms will be required for all athletes for the ropes section of the event.
Teams must turn in their forms at racer check-in. If you have participated in an event that required similar certifications you can send it in and we will review it. Each certificate will be considered by management on a case by case basis.

First Aid Knowledge

With the courses close proximity to medical services in Moab as well as first aid at CPs and transition areas we will not require First Aid/CPR certifications. However, we do highly recommend that 2 members of your team posses this knowledge for your own safety.

5. Event Equipment (supplied by AdventureXstream)

Kayaks: All teams will paddle the Aire Tomcat Tandem kayaks. In an effort to keep the playing field level no other personal watercraft will be accepted and no alterations to the kayaks will be permitted. Transportation of the kayaks to put in and take outs of the event will be done by event personnel (Your support crew will not have to transport any kayaks).

Ropes: All fixed ropes, anchors and back up safety lines during rope sections.

Other: Colored Maps, UTM Grid, Certification Forms, Racing Bib.

6. Cancellation Policy

Once registered, there are no refunds for deposits or entry fees. No Exceptions.

There are NO refunds for any reason; medical, personal, family, business or other.
Once registered you may transfer your entry to another team, with 4 weeks notice.
Teams can substitute teammates at any time with an email notice to Gravity Play Sports.
If your team needs to withdraw and the race is sold out, we will offer your entry to the first team on our waitlist so you can try to recoup your fees. A $50 per person transfer fee will apply

7. Team Sponsors

-You will not be allowed to obstruct any logos on the race bibs.

-You will be allowed to sew on your own sponsor patches.

-Shoes, legs, hats, and long sleeve areas are open to team sponsors as long as you do not obstruct any race sponsors.

-Logos on Bikes, Paddles, and vehicles is permitted.

-No more than two 3’ X 10’ Banners will be allowed per team in any transition area.

-No larger than one (1) 10’ X 10’ EZ Up Tent will be allowed by any team in a transition area. Tents will not be permitted at the Red Cliffs Lodge transition area.

-No product give-a-ways or distribution will be permitted without prior written consent from the race organization.

8. Air, Lodging, and Food

Air - The nearest international Airports to the race are:

Salt Lake City, UT (~4.5 hour drive)

Denver, CO (~5.5 hour drive)

Grand Junction, CO has the closest smaller airport. (~1.5 hour drive)

Lodging - Race headquarters will again be at Red Cliffs Adventure Lodge. Racer check-in on the 25th as well as the start and finish of the event will be located at the lodge. All teams/support crews are encouraged to stay at the lodge. Discounts will be available for teams and support crews. Please note: Camping/RV Camping at the lodge is not permitted for either racers or support crews. Lodging Info: Click Here

Additional Lodging Options in Town: Discounts Available, mention you are with the race.

Host Hotels:	Phone #:
Big Horn Lodge	800-325-6171
Red Stone Inn	800-772-1972
For more hotel options visit: http://discovermoab.com/hotels.htm

Food - Red Cliffs lodge serves a buffet breakfast ($8.95) and dinner entrees ($15-$30) and has a variety of beverages and snacks available for purchase during the day. The town of Moab is about 15 miles from the lodge where you can find all the stores necessary for food, gear, et..... Once on the race course crews will have a couple opportunities to re-supply and purchase food and other items. Racers of course need to be fully prepared and self-sufficient for the event.