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To Race The Wind: The Tsali Challenge NOC/Subaru
The Tsali Challenge is an excruciating triathlon that tests the endurance of dedicated athletes, as well as those just wanting to challenge themselves or have a good time. This two-day triathlon, sponsored by Nantahala Outdoor Center and Subaru, is held each fall at the Tsali Recreation Area in the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains, just outside of Bryson City, North Carolina. The race consists of a 3-mile paddle on the Fontana Lake, then moves to a 4.5-mile trail run, followed by a 12-mile mouth bike ride. You can race solo the Saturday of the event; teams or two to three people are welcome to race on Sunday.
The Tsali Challenge is widely known for being far more arduous than your typical triathalon, placing it in the extreme class of competition known as adventure racing. However, it isn’t limited to die-hard professional athletes either. Anyone can compete in this challenge. There are four categories: Open Men and Open Women for competitors under the age of 40, and Master Men and Master Women for those over the age of 40. Open classes or categories are usually more competitive because they are open to younger competitors groups; however, those in the Master class are welcome to compete in the Open class if they wish. Racers must provide their own boat, bike, helmet, personal flotation device, paddle, and running shoes. Racers may use any type of boat.
While top athletes do participate in the challenge, many compete just for the sheer relaxation, the exercise and the scenery. It is a welcome vacation from work and a great chance to take in the scenery of the Great Smokey Mountains. Winning isn’t important to most people. They simply enjoy the pure satisfaction of completing the race while hanging out with old friends and meeting new ones.
All competitors agree that one of the most rewarding things about the Tsali Challenge is the scenery and the culture the experience as they compete. The beautiful mountains through which these athletes run and bike were once the homeland of the Cherokee Nation and the trading zone for explorers and pioneers. As they race through this land where so much history has been made, competitors have the unique opportunity to experience and share the beauty, the spirit and the emotions the Great Smoky Mountains have inspired in all those who been here before them. They share not only the experience of the race, but those common bonds that make us all human.
For more details about the 2005 Tsali Challenge, call the Nantahala Outdoor Center at 800-232-7238 or visit www.noc.com/events_tsali.htm
