Pirates Descend on Salcombe!

News Release / 28.04.2008

Pirate RAID Coastal Adventure Race is the latest adventure event taking place in the beautiful seaside town of Salcombe on the 21st and 22nd June 2008. The weekend-long event is being organised by Endurancelife who have given it a swashbuckling pirate theme.

The event consists of two separate races, designed to offer extreme fun for all levels of competitor, from complete newcomers to elite adventure racers.

The main event takes place on the Sunday: The “PIRATE RAID” is a demanding eight hour adventure race in which teams of three will be required to navigate a challenging course that will involve trail running, kayaking, mountain biking, scrambling and a thrilling coasteering section.

The area’s varied rural terrain and network of paths and bridleways allow for some excellent trail running and mountain biking. With 26 miles of estuary shoreline and 200 acres of estuary and creek waters to explore, the Salcombe estuary is a paddler’s paradise and so kayaking will inevitably feature well. There may not be any white water to navigate here, but Pirate Raid competitors will be challenged in countless other ways.

“This will be a seriously tough event, testing competitors’ stamina, teamwork and determination to the limit. Given the superb setting and the unique nature of the coastal course, we expect The Pirate Raid will attract an international field” said Endurancelife Director, Andrew Barker.

As a prelude to the PIRATE RAID, the “PIRATE RAMPAGE” will be held on Saturday evening for those who are new to adventure racing or just up for some fun. This scaled-down three-hour event will send competitors racing through town, searching for checkpoints. It is open to pairs or teams of three.

“The Rampage will be predominantly foot based” said Barker, “but entrants should expect a few surprises and must be prepared to get wet!”

The Pirate Weekend will bring a real festival atmosphere to Salcombe and there will be plenty of amusements and activities to keep non racing family members entertained. The square rigged sailing ship – the Matthew – will be based in Salcombe for the duration of the weekend and will have an important role to play during the Pirate Rampage. For those looking to set sail and experience the extraordinary world of Tudor sailors, explorers and pirates, the Matthew will also be running short cruises over the two days. Topping off the weekend will be the legendary pirate party!

Those competing for the top prize must complete both the PIRATE RAID and the PIRATE RAMPAGE. Places are limited to 100 teams in the PIRATE RAMPAGE and just 40 teams in the PIRATE RAID. Early indications are that this will be a popular event so anyone interested in taking part is advised to book their place as soon as possible. For more info or to book visit www.endurancelife.com.