October 2002

Hemlock Overlook Race Set

By Michelle Nery

One hundred three-person teams will canoe, run, and mountain bike through 29 miles of forested trails and waterways this Sunday, Oct. 6, in the third annual VentureQuest adventure race hosted by Hemlock Overlook Center for Outdoor Education. The race weaves through Hemlock Overlook, Bull Run Marina, and Fountainhead Regional Park. This year's race also incorporates several new mentally and physically intense team challenges.

James Harman, former manager of adventure-based programs at Hemlock Overlook and now program manager at the Freshman Center, established VentureQuest in 2000 to foster teamwork through competition. "I've always been intrigued by how teams perform when placed in extreme or demanding situations that test their physical and mental abilities," says Harman. "I know the positive energy that flows in these events and the team aspect really blends well with all the programs that Hemlock offers," he says.

"This event is a great way for Hemlock Overlook to promote and combine outdoor recreation, health and fitness, and experiential education," says Susan Johnson, Hemlock Overlook director. "It is exciting to see the racers work so hard and be so committed to working together as a team." In VentureQuest, teams of three start, compete, and finish together.

Hemlock Overlook staff members volunteer to staff the check-in and transition stations, handle course marshaling, and serve the pre-race pasta dinner. "The energy generated from VentureQuest lasts throughout the year," says Johnson.

VentureQuest also relies extensively on community volunteers. If you are interested, call Harman at x39830 or e-mail him at jharman@gmu.edu.

In addition to being the only local adventure race, VentureQuest has a college division. "I don't know of any other race that has it," says Harman. "Last year we had five college teams, and this year we hope to have even more."

George Mason information technology junior Jeanette Prakken competed in last year's race with chemistry student Michele Duke and information technology student Chris Suarez. "Our experience from these competitions will be the first thing we remember as good memories from GMU after graduation," says Kanaizuka.

"It would be fantastic to have more George Mason student, staff, and faculty teams," says Harman. "The teams do not have to be all students. It is truly a community event."

After the race, the festival begins, complete with bands, pizzas donated by Papa John's, and juices donated by Nantucket Nectars. "The sponsors enable us to keep the entry prices down and put on a good show," he says. VentureQuest also donates a portion of the proceeds to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-Atlantic.

The entry fee of $330 includes canoe, paddle, and life jacket rental; all challenge equipment; race T-shirts; pasta dinner; food, water, and Gatorade during the event; post-race pizza and beverages; a VentureQuest finisher ribbon and T-shirt; and post-race massages.