Team Dandies (Ryan, Dan Keith)
Team Dandies adventure racing team has finally had its first race of the year. Indianapolis, IN was the site of our most recent racing disaster. Despite high hopes that we had finally committed every stupid error possible in adventure racing, we were somehow able to find one more way to screw ourselves in a race. This time, after dragging a canoe for 5 miles through what remains of Eagle Creek after weeks of drought, we somehow managed to get all of our maps wet! There were desperate efforts to put the pieces of the map back together, but even an outstanding Purdue alumni could not save the day. Our faith in this program crushed, we soldiered on to the rest of the course knowing that a disqualification was imminent.
After a short bike ride and another navigation section, we got to repel off the dam into Eagle Creek reservoir. Our ropes were purposely made short and we fell at least 15 feet into the cool clear reservoir waters…cool and clear as long as you ignored the smell that is. Another short bike ride to the section where Ryan got to finally ride a razor scooter. Spandex, bike helmet, and scooters would have made for an awesome picture, but cameras were not allowed as lawsuits were threatened. More bike riding, a sprint to the finish, and 11 hours later we finally crossed the finish line. The race director bought us vegan food from Noodles and Company. Nothing sweeter than sitting down to eat good vegan food after 11 hours of racing. We didn’t place, we didn’t compete, but we have memories…and sand in our shoes. Next time, real water proof map cases!
Post Race Discussion....Who Was in Charge of Dry Maps?
Are you kidding…this sounds like victory to me! Wish I could have seen this!
p.s. – bigger photos!