Atlanta Badass Dash

Atlanta Badass Dash Raises Funds For Autism Research

Press Release / 29.01.2014

Speaks, an organization dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and possible cure for autism; to raising public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society; and to bringing hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder, is proud to announce the city of Tempe will host its final Obstacle Race fundraiser in conjunction with the 2014 BADASS Dash™ series. The inaugural Arizona BADASS Dash™ will take place on November 8th at Kiwanis Park in Tempe and be the final tour stop in a series of 12 events, taking place at select cities throughout North America in support of Autism Speaks in 2014.

Brian Sharenow, Race Director for the BADASS Dash™ series states, “Individuals within the Autism spectrum often experience the daily stress of feeling like a square pegs trying to live in a world of round holes. At each of the B.A.D. events, thousands of participants celebrate the challenge of trying to overcome obstacles they wouldn't normally face in our everyday lives. And although part of the thrill and excitement of the race is working toward conquering those obstacles, there's a certain amount of relief that comes from knowing there's a finish line.” Sharenow points out, “There's an immense feeling of satisfaction knowing you completed that LAST obstacle and are headed toward the coveted finish line to celebrate with friends, family and/or fellow racers. However, for individuals within the autism spectrum, the obstacles never end - there's always one more obstacle. The focus of these events is to hopefully one day provide those with Autism their finish line.”

So whether you are searching for a personal challenge, pride yourself in being a weekend warrior or are an avid racer seeking full-blown adrenaline rush, get ready for the most BADASS Obstacle Course Challenge and Adventure Run this side of insanity. The race will feature 30 of the most unique, challenging, fun and BADASS obstacles sprawled across a 7K (4.4 mile) course set within the confines of Kiwanis Park.

Each BADASS Dash competitor has the opportunity to compete individually or as a team and register for one of 3 Divisions:

The ELITE division, as the name clearly depicts, is geared toward individuals who are well trained (i.e. police, firefighters, armed forces, competitive athletes) and are looking to “get after it” while having the race of a lifetime. This division showcases those who can traverse through the obstacles while navigating the terrain the fastest with opportunities to win big prizes and even bigger bragging rights.

The RECREATION division, which can be anyone from an avid racer to a weekend warrior to someone looking for a new personal challenge, is geared toward those who are not specifically trained in Obstacle Course Challenges or Adventure Races but want to set a goal on the finish line and then achieve it.

The K9 COMPANION division showcases teams made up of one male or female (at least 14 years of age) and their dog (at least 1 year old) competing on the same course as the Recreation Division with a select number of obstacles designed specifically for each team to conquer together.

Each race also features a KIDS DASH division for children 4 - 13 years of age. The Kids Dash for 4 - 6 years old will feature a 200-yard dash with obstacles just their size while the 7 - 13 years old get to race on a 1-mile course with a mixture of adult and kids obstacles.

“We are excited to be partnering with The Badass Dash. Their fantastic race will be fun for the participants and also will help Autism Speaks. We are looking forward to the race. ” said Black Dog Promotions CEO, Scott Kelly.

Those not racing are encouraged to travel the course alongside the racers and cheer them on as they move from obstacle to obstacle as well as joining in the festivities of the POST-RACE FESTIVAL which will host racers, canines, vendors and spectators in a festival atmosphere with the inclusion of live entertainment, a beer garden, food & beverages, expo area, awards ceremonies, contests and prize giveaways.

If its time for you to take on the personal challenge of a lifetime or if you desire to be a part of an event that is guaranteed to leave a lasting impact on anyone who witnesses its spectacle, go to www.badassdash.com to register. To find out more information on the entire race series, check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/thebadassdash.

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