Red River Gorge American Classic, a/k/a The Fig X

60 miles of "Fig" n' Pain 

Adventure racing returns to eastern Kentucky for 2012 in the 10th annual Red River Gorge American Classic, affectionately known as "The Fig," after legendary US Forest Service Ranger Don Fig. 

This 12-hour race will challenge soloists and teams of 2/3/4 to mountain bike, trek, paddle, and navigate their way through the rugged terrain of the Red River Gorge, located in the heart of the Daniel Boone National Forest. 

The Gorge is a unique and scenic geological area designated and managed by the US Forest Service as a national natural landmark. The Gorge was sculpted by the Red River, Kentucky’s first National Wild and Scenic River, and is home to over 100 natural stone arches and other geological features that make it a world-renowned climbing mecca. Over 60 miles of designated National Recreation Trails wind through the heavily wooded and rugged topography of this spectacular forest area. 

The Gorge is located adjacent to Natural Bridge State Resort Park, where we'll be headquartered for our 10th anniversary.  There's a block of rooms set aside for the Fig, so be sure to let the front desk know you're racing, to ensure a room is made available to you and at the discounted rate.  Be sure to make your reservation ASAP, as the lodge will fill up quickly, and can't be beaten for convenience, comfort and cost!

The longest-running adventure race in Kentucky, the Fig has earned its reputation as a classic.  The race is your first opportunity to qualify for the 2013  USARA Adventure Race National Championship. 

THANKS:

Pedal Power Bike Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, is on board as a Gold Sponsor of the Fig IX! Look for some awesome bike schwag in your race bags and on the prize table! Be sure to thank them next time you're in their store at 401 S. Upper Street, and check out their huge selection of bikes, accessories, clothing, and more while you're there. It's a gear nut's dream. Really. Ride on.

We're also grateful for the support of Kentucky's Office of Adventure Tourism, which has totally embraced the sport of adventure racing.  Check out their website for some great ideas on places to visit and train across the Commonwealth.

NEWS FLASH:

11.08.11  Another Fig is in the books!  Thanks to everyone who came out to race the Fig IX.  Official results are here and photos can be found on PhotoBucket.  You can find a race report by Rev3 Adventure on their blog.  You can find other racer photos and comments by joining the Flying Squirrel Adventures group on Facebook.

9.01.11   The lodge at Pine Crest Camp is full.  I strongly suggest you find alternative accommodations ASAP, as lodging is somewhat limited in and around Beattyville.  The next most convenient town with reliable lodging is Slade.  There are some specific suggestions on the FAQ page.

4.22.11  Registration for the Fig IX is now OPEN!!  Reservations for the lodge at Pine Crest Camp will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis for registered racers only.   

1.09.11  The Fig IX is on!!  Scheduled for the first Saturday of November, as always, this year's event will return to Pine Crest Camp Lodge in Beattyville.  Take note of a few things new and different this year. 

First, there will not be a rappel this year.  Regrets to those of you who look forward to the rappel each year.  It will suffice to say that over the years, the rappel has drawn criticism as often as praise, and in our last survey more racers voted to dispense with the rappel than to keep it.  The requirement of a climbing-specific helmet was an expense that drew several complaints.  I could say more, but there's no need.  I've lowered the entry fee somewhat and the rappel is out.

Secondly, you'll see that there is no late entry fee this year.  Instead, I've moved the registration deadline up and provided for a single fee up to that date.  Be forewarned that I will NOT make ANY exceptions to the registration deadline.  I would encourage those of you who know you'll be doing the race to register early, anyway, because it facilitates planning and allows me to bring more to the prize table.  Thanks!

USARA Adventure Racing National Championship Qualifier

The top four teams in the combined 3 and 4-person co-ed division will be invited to compete in the 2013 USARA Adventure Race National Championship.  Be one of the first teams to qualify!  

Quick Facts:

When:

Saturday,

November 3, 2012

Where:

Natural Bridge SRP

& Red River Gorge

Slade, KY

How Long:

12 Glorious Hours

How Much:

$135 per racer*

What For:

Entry includes waterproof maps from MyTopo, insurance, USARA sanctioning and Regional Qualifier status, great door prizes from Pedal Power and other sponsors, post-race party with food, and long-sleeved race shirt 

*Non-USARA members will need to purchase an $8 single-day membership or $35 annual membership

Hurry - registration closes 10.15.12!!

Nighttime at Princess Arch

by John Snell

(click on the photo to check out some more of John's spectacular work)