The Wilderness ARC Opens Entries

Rob Howard / 11.01.2006

Entries have now opened for the 2006 Wilderness ARC and the dates have been set for the 2007 race, which will be the Adventure Racing World Championship.

Wilderness ARC was launched last year as the UK’s premier expedition race, and returns a little earlier this year, starting on May 29th and running through to June 2nd.

The inaugural race was part of the World Series and the British Championship, and established itself as an instant classic through the quality of the race organisation and the magnificence of the course, set in the Western Highlands of Scotland. The response to the race was such that it won a bid to host the 2007 World Championships, which will once again be based in Fort William, the Outdoor Capital of the UK, and will take place between Saturday May 26th and Sunday 3 June.

“We’re particularly pleased to have an early announcement of the dates for the 2007 Adventure Race World Championships,” said Geoff Hunt, the World Series organiser, “it allows teams to plan ahead and perhaps gain some experience of the Wilderness ARC this year in advance of the World Championships. It also gives us an opportunity to work long term with the race organisation, partners and hosts to prepare for a truly exceptional event in 2007.”

Teams who took part last year found the mountain ranges, wilderness, coastline and lochs of the Western Highlands of Lochaber both challenging and immensely rewarding. Unpredictable and severe weather meant there was a high retirement rate, and even experienced UK teams admitted they were unprepared for the demands of the race. Visiting teams from all around the world were equally surprised, and astonished at the diversity and beauty of the region.

Course Director Gary Tompsett won’t reveal this year’s route until the eve of the race, but commented: “This area is vast and we only just touched the sides in 2005. We delivered a fantastic experience for racers but there is much more to come. I have already started reconnoitring for this year’s event and my job is an absolute joy. Thick forests, deep lochs, mysterious mountains and enchanted glens; this truly is a magical area through which to race.”