2017 EVENT
GUIDE AUGUST 9-13
LOCALLY PRODUCED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 1
Outfitting
active kids
36 years and counting!
outerwear | clothing | accessories | toys
KidsVail.com (970) 476-1666 • (800) 833-1729 122 E. Meadow Dr. in Vail Village (across from Solaris)
Proud sponsor of the Kids Adventure Games!
www.kidsadventuregames.com 2 • 2017 VAIL KIDS ADVE NT U R E G AM ES
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 3
WELCOME ADVENTURE RACERS, We’re thrilled to return home for our eighth season of the Vail Kids Adventure Games™. What started out as a humble backyard birthday party in 2009, has grown into a nationwide family tradition for thousands of kids and their families. In addition to our largest event here in Vail, we’ll be at nine resorts across the nation this summer including Stowe, VT; Park City, UT; Big Bear Lake and Squaw Valley, CA; Big Sky Resort, MT; Wilmot Mountain, WI (near Chicago); Copper Mountain, CO and Stevens Pass, WA (near Seattle). The Kids Adventure Games™ are more than just competition. They’re an opportunity for us to provide kids with an outlet to experience nature in a fun safe environment while instilling the values of teamwork, perseverance, grit, resiliency and environmental stewardship. Nothing gives us more satisfaction than watching kids cross the finish line as a team- dirty, smiling and with a true sense of accomplishment, always enthusiastic to compete year after year. This year’s event will, once again, span five days and is loaded with activities for the entire family. Race action will include three days of racing on three distinct courses, including a shorter course for less experienced racers and beginners; a medium length course for intermediate racers; and a long course designed specifically for more seasoned expert racers. The popular skills clinics will take place prior to racing and are taught by local experts who provide insight on how to be a better biker, climber and teammate. For those too old or too young to race, the KEEN Family Mud Run will offer the entire family a chance to get out, get dirty and compete together. And finally, the free Family Adventure Zone will feature demos and activities for both racers and spectators alike. More information and details about these activities are available in this year’s event guide in the pages that follow. We’d also like to give a shout out and huge THANK YOU to our community and partners. Without the support from our racers and their families, countless volunteers and both our local and national partners, we wouldn’t be where we are today. It takes an empire to put on the Kids Adventure Games™ and your efforts and enthusiasm make this event a success! - Kids Adventure Games™ Staff Work Hard, Play Hard
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2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 5
f f o % 0 3 rentals & tours
–––––––––––––––
f f o % 15 Bike Accessories (DISCOUNTS VALID AT ALL LOCATIONS FROM 8/8 TO 8/15)
3 LOCATIONS - OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!! Vail Village / Basecamp, Top of Bridge Street / 970-477-8095 Avon / Avon Center, 100 W. Beaver Creek Blvd. / 970-949-1318 Cascade Village / 1300 Westhaven Circle / 970-479-1510 6 • 2017 VAIL KIDS ADVE NT U R E G AM ES
CONTENTS FEATURES: 8
TEACHING KIDS THROUGH ADVENTURE RACING The Kids Adventure Games™ is more than fun, learn about the life lessons gained from this one-of-a-kind race.
16
ALLI’S ESSAY A past Kids Adventure Games™ racer shares her firsthand race experiences.
23
TAKING A HIT The dangers of concussions. A Vail Health Magazine contribution.
2017 RACE INFORMATION: 13
WHAT IS ADVENTURE RACING
18
ADVENTURE RACING TIPS & TRICKS
20
2017 KIDS ADVENTURE GAMES™ EVENT CALENDAR
20
2017 SPECTATOR EVENT MAP
26
RACER GEAR LIST & RACE RULES
28
2017 SPECTATOR GUIDE
32
2017 FAMILY ADVENTURE ZONE
34
WHILE YOU’RE HERE Dining, shopping and activity guide
36
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
38
SPONSORSHIPS & LODGING PARTNERS
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 7
TEACHING LIFE SKILLS THROUGH ADVENTURE RACING By: Katie Coakley
It’s a perfect day, one of those that happen frequently in Colorado. As the sun shines brightly in the bluebird sky, a stream of children is climbing gingerly down a hill towards the river before leapfrogging mats that stretch across the water. A boy trips and splashes into Gore Creek. His partner stops and reaches out a hand to pull him back onto the mat. They continue, clambering up the other side of the bank before heading to the next obstacle. For eight years, the Kids Adventure Games™ (Kids A.G.) have been providing these types of moments to kids ages six to 14. With more than 800 participants each year, Vail is the largest Kids A.G. event, but it’s not the only one. Kids A.G. is now nation-wide, with nine events this summer stretching from coast to coast. But no matter where you participate, the prize remains the same: an opportunity to learn about teamwork, patience, perseverance and environmental stewardship. For 9-year old Murphy Werner, who has participated the past two years, the Kids A.G. have taught her about strategy and teamwork. She has definitive strategies that she and Jessie, her partner for the games, have developed for events like tubing down the river: one sits while the other one pushes. For the mountain biking, she said that you must “take it easy and end hard.” But it’s also taught her about working with, and depending on, someone else. “The teamwork is just phenomenal, how they make you work together and how you have to stick together. If someone falls, you have to help them up,” Murphy explained. “I learned that having fun is the strategy.” Naturally athletic, Murphy is no stranger to the outdoors, but most of her pursuits have been individual sports, like tennis and cross-country skiing. This year, 8 • 2017 VAIL KIDS ADVE NT U R E G AM ES
she started playing lacrosse. “This was my first time doing lacrosse, it was my first team sport,” Murphy said. “So, the adventure race helped with learning teamwork…the people on your team are not your competitors, they’re your teammates.” Murphy’s father, Jens Werner, has seen the benefits of Murphy’s participation in the Kids A.G. too.
“What I think is cool abut it is that it inspired each of the children to have patience because, on the obstacles, one partner may do better than the other,” Jens said. “In that age, 7 and 8, she played individual sports. The Kids Adventure Games inspires patience and understanding and a level of teamwork that individual sports don’t have.” Teamwork is one the most crucial tenets of the Kids A.G.: you can’t finish without your partner. Participants learn about teamwork in a
“I learned that having fun is the strategy.” - Murphey Werner, age 9
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 9
way that’s not cliché, Jens said. “As someone who’s done a lot of adventure sports, it’s a really cool thing to see your kid do something that’s outside of their comfort zone, to have the confidence to do it and finish it,” he said. These sorts of experiences and play are important for children. By exposure to new experiences and activities that might be out of one’s comfort zone, children are inoculating themselves against fears in later years. By navigating the course by themselves (parents are encouraged to watch and support, but should not actively participate with their kids), participants are learning problem-solving skills and how to stand on their own two feet—or swing across a river, as it were. “It’s important that kids make the decisions,” said Hélène Mattison, co-founder of the event. “It’s amazing what kids can do when they’re given the opportunity. It’s been wonderful seeing all that our participants accomplish and knowing that they’re taking the lessons they learn with them.” What started out as a birthday party for Hélène and co-founder and world championship adventure racer Billy Mattison’s 6-year old twins has turned into the largest kids-only adventure race of its kind in the nation. Since its start in 2009, the Kids A.G. has introduced
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FUN FACTS: •
70,000 Miles driven by the Kids A.G. Toyota Tundra and Toyota Sienna
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7,600 Pairs of shoes on course in 2016
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545 Super volunteers who make this race possible
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20,000 Clif bars eaten
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15,000 Horizon chocolate milks consumed
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12,160 Cheering parents, family and friends at 2016 events
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15,000 Kids introduced to adventure racing since the Kids Adventure Games inception
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4,000 Gallons of water in the Slope N’ Slide basin (water recycled after use)
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120 Obstacles set up every year
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250 Life changing experiences donated to kids from Boys & Girls Clubs and non-profits
adventure racing to more than 15,000 kids; this year alone, more than 6,000 kids will experience the thrill of the race. Additionally, in each city, the Kids A.G. works with various non profits like the Boys and Girls Club of America to let children who may not have the means to participate tackle the course. It’s never too early to start adventuring. The Kids Adventure Games is here to help light the flame, one team at a time. -■
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 1 1
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WHAT IS
ADVENTURE RACING Combing endurance with excitement, adventure racing is rapidly-growing in popularity. Typically run in teams of two to five, this multi-discipline sport tests athlete abilities, teamwork, strength, endurance and resolve as they navigate a wilderness course on bike, foot and water. Ranging in length from 10 to 100 miles, adventure races attract athletes looking to test their endurance and mind in a truly unique environment. Designed by adventure racing champion and event co-founder Billy Mattison, the Kids Adventure Games™ (Kids A.G.) is the perfect introduction for kids to experience the thrill of adventure racing. On a course specifically designed for kids ages six to 14, teams of two ride bikes, trek, zip line, navigate ropes and other obstacles as they race through the wilderness. Like their professional athletic role models, Kids A.G. participants can expect to push their limits, work together, overcome various obstacles, challenge themselves and, most importantly, have fun!
others require them to observe and utilize their surroundings working together to overcome a challenge. The exceptional attributes of endurance, the natural elements and teamwork make finishing an adventure race an awesome accomplishment. So, remember Kids A.G. participants, even if you aren’t or weren’t the fastest, the fact you got out there, worked together and finished makes you a winner. Enjoy your experience and good luck on the course! -■
Courses have both man-made and natural obstacles, making each race unique to its location and terrain. Weather and other natural elements provide additional excitement and challenges racers must overcome. The goal of adventure racing is to not only go the fastest, but to be the smartest and work the best with teammates. While some challenges require racers to move quickly,
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 1 3
New for this summer! Enjoy breathtaking views and a FREE kids scenic gondola ride to the top of Vail Mountain, with adult purchase. Once at the top explore all Epic Discovery has to offer—Adventure Courses, a Mountain Coaster, Ziplines, Climbing Wall and much more.
START YOUR ADVENTURE AT VAIL.COM Vail Resorts is located within the White River National Forest and is operated by Vail Resorts under permit from the Forest Service, U.S.D.A.
1 4 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES
ZIP, FLY, CLIMB, TUBE: HOW WILL YOU DISCOVER VAIL MOUNTAIN? With ziplines, an alpine coaster, new climbing wall and much more, the options are endless at Epic Discovery, the ultimate on-mountain playground! New this summer, kids 12-and-under can ride the gondola for free with a paying adult, allowing for even easier access to adventure. With free guided nature hikes at the top of Vail Mountain and interpretive learning trails that bring education to life in a fun and interactive way, exploring the National Forest together has never been easier or more fun. Come reconnect with nature and spend quality time in the outdoors as a family. To find out more, visit www.vail.com.
Photo Credits: Vail Resorts
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 1 5
ALLI’S ESSAY Alison Altman is 18 years old and a senior at Colorado Academy. She is a varsity diver, violinist, retired-gymnast, and lover of all things outdoors. She lives in Golden, CO with her parents, John & Leslie Altman, sister Kate and Goldendoodle Ginger. The crisp morning air sent chills down my spine as we lined up behind the start line. Echoes of announcers and excited parents with cow bells rang through my ears, a murmur of voices filling my head. I could feel the nervous pit of adrenaline in my stomach as I glanced towards my younger sister and teammate, Kate, for encouragement. I had always lacked that insatiable drive for competition that everyone else seemed to have, so I couldn’t decide whether I was more nervous for the race itself or excited for it to be over. Standing at the starting line at age 12, I would have never imagined how the Vail Kids Adventure Games™ could have become the highlight of my summer, teaching me more about competition and community than anything else I had endeavored throughout my youth. The ten second count started as our wave was about to take off. “5, 4, 3, 2, 1!”, the announcer shouted - and we were off! As I peddled up the steep hills on my mountain bike, maneuvered my way through an underground tunnel, swung from rope to rope on the ropes course, bush-whacked my way through a weed-populated Pepi’s Face, and crawled through a mud pit, I not only learned how much I could push my physical abilities, but I grew as a competitor and a teammate. Before we both knew it, my sister and I ran across the finish line, mud-caked and scraped legs burning, with nothing but smiles on our faces. The nerves had dissipated, leaving only good feelings and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. Sliding in close to the bottom 1 6 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES
of the pool of participants, nothing seemed to matter except the fact that through great teamwork, we crossed the finish line together. I now craved the outdoors and all that it had to offer, drinking in the sunshine and the experience all together. The Kids Adventure Games™ became the highlight of my summer. A returning competitor of three years, I’ve competed alongside my younger sister and my best friend. While encountering physically challenging and unusual obstacles together, you learn a lot about yourself and your partner as teammates, beyond the realm of being a sister and a best friend. You learn to counter each other’s abilities and persevere through tough obstacles, becoming a team instead of two individuals. Becoming better teammates enables you to become a better competitor, and the race becomes less of a series of events against the clock and more about enjoying the experience. Encouraging and excited volunteers don’t meet you at each obstacle pressing you for speed, but instead greeted us with smiles, cheers, and a helping hand. The Kids Adventure Games™ shaped me into the competitor and the teammate I am today. It also has helped me to become a better person in everyday team-building endeavors at school and any activity I do with my friends and family. The race aided in the development of my love for the outdoors as well as giving me memories to carry with me for the rest of my life. As a result of the Kids Adventure Games™, I have learned how not only how to love competition, but a community.-■
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 1 7
KIDS
TIPS & TRICKS Never competed in an adventure race before? No problem! Here are some tips from Kids Adventure Games™ Director and Champion Adventure Racer Billy Mattison. PRACTICE!
WORK TOGETHER
Training for the race ahead of time will help you on race day. Better yet, train with your teammate. Training together will give you both more confidence. Practice rope climbing, plunge yourself in cold water to get used to the shock and build your endurance.
Adventure racing is a team sport, you’re only as fast as the slowest person on the team. Help each other by taking turns carrying gear and completing obstacles.
CHECK YOUR GEAR Ride your bike and make sure it’s in good working order. Hike and run to make sure your shoes fit comfortably. You don’t want blisters on your feet to slow you down. Make sure your helmet fits, if it’s too lose it will get in the way, if it’s too tight it will be a distraction on race day.
1 8 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES
TAKE CARE OF YOUR MAP Your map is your navigation tool and is top secret until race day. Always have it with you so you don’t get lost.
BE A GOOD SPORT Adventure racing is hard. You may come across other teams who need help. If you see a team in trouble, stop and help them out! -■
t c i r t s vities! i i t d c a c l l e vail rm e f o r s u m m e r & fa your ho
MOUNTAIN BIKE RACE SERIES AUG. 23: Beaver Creek Blast aug. 30: minturn mini back to school kids race sept. 6: cyclocross #1 town of minturn
l a sportiva
vail trail running series AUG. 26: 5k & 10K@10,000 feet sept. 16: meadowgold 5K & 10K
sign up for
kids skating programs! learn to skate jr. prep jumps & spins theater on ice
to register, visit vailrec.com/register
VAILREC.COM | 970-479-2279 2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 1 9
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EVENT CA WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9
FRIDAY, AUGUST 11
11:30am - 1pm
9am - 2pm
Athlete check-in, KidSPORT in Vail Village
Vail Kids Adventure Games - Expert Division
1pm - 5pm
9:30am
Optional Skills Clinics, Meet at KidSPORT in Vail Village
FREE bike clinic sponsored by Venture Sports, Mountain Plaza
THURSDAY, AUGUST 10
11am - 5pm
11am - 5pm Family Adventure Zone, Solaris Plaza Vail
Family Adventure Zone, Solaris Plaza Vail Village
Village
11am
11:30am - 1pm Athlete check-in, KidSPORT in Vail Village
FREE bike clinic sponsored by Venture Sports, Mountain Plaza
1pm - 5pm
1:30pm
Optional Skills Clinics, Meet at KidSPORT in Vail Village
FREE bike clinic sponsored by Venture Sports, Mountain Plaza
4pm - 6pm
3pm
Athlete check-in, KidSPORT in Vail Village
Vail Kids Adventure Games - After Party and Awards Ceremony, Mountain Plaza
4pm - 6pm Athlete check-in, KidSPORT in Vail Village
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START / FINISH AREA
Pirateship Park
MUD RUN START / FINISH MOUNTAIN PLAZA
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Viewing Area 1
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ATHLETE CHECK-IN
East Meadow Drive
KIDSPORT Drive adow t Me Wes
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Viewing Area 2
FAMILY ADVENTURE ZONE
PARKING
SOLARIS South Frontage Road
ALENDAR
70
SATURDAY, AUGUST 12
SUNDAY, AUGUST 13
9am - 2pm
9am - 2pm
Vail Kids Adventure Games - Intermediate Division
Vail Kids Adventure Games - Beginner Division
9:30am
2:30pm
FREE bike clinic sponsored by Venture Sports, Mountain Plaza
Inyodo Martial Arts Demo Mountain Plaza
11am
Vail Kids Adventure Games - After Party and Awards Ceremony, Mountain Plaza
FREE bike clinic sponsored by Venture Sports, Mountain Plaza
3pm
12pm - 6pm Athlete check-in, KidSPORT in Vail Village
1:30pm FREE bike clinic sponsored by Venture Sports, Mountain Plaza
2:30pm Inyodo Martial Arts Demo Mountain Plaza
3pm Vail Kids Adventure Games - After Party and Awards Ceremony, Mountain Plaza
4:30pm KEEN Family Mud Run, Mountain Plaza*
This schedule is tentative and subject to change. Please visit KidsAdventureGames.com for the full and most up-to-date schedule of events. *Register for the KEEN Family Fun Run online at VailRec.com/sports-activities/vail-race/youth-activities-kids-adventure-race or in person at KidSPORT 2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 2 1
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2 2 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES
Taking a Hit CONCUSSIONS ARE BOTH COMMONPLACE AND DANGEROUS By: Laura Bell REPRINTED FROM VAIL HEALTH MAGAZINE RAISE YOUR HAND IF YOU HAVE HAD A CONCUSSION.” Kim Greene, the injury prevention specialist for VVMC’s Trauma Services, frequently asks this question in local classrooms. Five years ago, she was met with blank stares and silence. But today, on average, five students will tentatively lift their hands. Have concussions increased that much? “Yes,” says Greene, “and so has awareness.” Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports show the amount of reported concussions has doubled in the last 10 years. The American Academy of Pediatrics has reported that emergency room visits for concussions in kids ages 8 to 13 years old has doubled, and concussions have risen 200 percent among teens ages 14 to 19 in the last decade. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), more commonly referred to as concussions, are getting a lot of attention lately. When left undetected, concussions can result in long-term brain damage and may even prove fatal. The data is sobering — cumulative sports concussions are shown to increase the likelihood of catastrophic head injury leading to permanent neurologic disability by 39 percent. Additionally, according to Head Case, an organization to help protect young athletes from the risks of undetected cumulative concussions: • 1 IN 5 high school athletes will sustain a sports concussion during the season. • 33% of high school athletes who have a sports concussion report two or more in the same year. • 4 TO 5 MILLION concussions occur annually, with rising numbers among middle school athletes. • 90% of most diagnosed concussions do not involve a loss of consciousness. • An estimated 5.3 MILLION Americans live with a traumatic brain injury-related disability (CDC). Because of heightened awareness and, more importantly, a desire to educate students, local parents, coaches and medical professionals are teaming up to get the word out on the prevention, recognition and treatment of concussions. “When I ask students who’ve had concussions to share their experience with their classmates, the
students will listen to that. It is the most effective part of what we do (in regards to education),” says Greene, the chapter director of ThinkFirst, an international non-profit organization that promotes education and resources. Through Vail Valley Medical Center, which operates the ThinkFirst chapter, Greene visits Eagle County schools and distributes free bike helmets, provides education regarding concussions and helps administer ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing), baseline testing through a computerized neurocognitive assessment. She also does car seat inspections throughout the county, giving hands-on demonstrations on how to install them properly and safely secure a child. While passionate about spreading the word on TBI prevention and safety, this is not the profession that Greene would have originally chosen. Her journey began when her then-16-year-old son, Jeremy, was driving his car without a seatbelt; his vehicle spun out of control and crashed into a tree. “It was a game of waitand-see every day,” she says. “His brain was sloshing around in his skull.” Derived from Latin, the word concussion means to “shake violently,” which was exactly what happened to Jeremy’s brain. For three-and-one-half months, he was in a coma and non-responsive. “When someone is in a coma, you can’t say that in two months something in particular is going to happen. It is day to day,” she says. Now 32 — 15 years later — Jeremy still takes things one day at a time. Although he did graduate from college, he is, as Greene says, “definitely disabled.” He can no longer drive, and has balance and vision problems. He is currently living at home as he needs the extra support. As an example, Greene says that her son needs to be supervised when doing anything that involves multiple steps, such as cooking. He struggles with executive functions such as putting his day in order: what day is it, what does he need to do, where does he need to be? Nineteen-year-old Clare Baker, a Vail Mountain School (VMS) alumna, can relate. She is a self-described sticky-note junkie and is always writing lists. Baker suffered her first of eight to 10 concussions 2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 2 3
when she was in second grade and fell 30 feet from a tree. A gymnast, her first instinct was to put her arm out to protect her head. While that broke her arm, Baker believes had she not done that, she would be paralyzed as she hit the ground with such high velocity. When she arrived at the hospital, she was functioning normally and answering questions. However, she has no recollection of the first few hours of what happened after she “hit the ground.” I was not unconscious but my mind was essentially black,” she says. “I don’t remember a thing and that is really scary. In my mind I was dead for those few hours.” Baker’s mother initially chalked up her nausea to the pain medications she was given, but her maternal instincts took over and after more tests Clare was diagnosed with a concussion. “I’ve learned that after your first concussion, it is easier to get a second and then a third and so on,” Baker says. From second to seventh grade she suffered four more concussions, some more severe than others, but each collectively contributing to the problems she experiences today. Prior to the start of eleventh grade, Baker suffered a particularly disturbing concussion when she fell at the top of the wake while wakeboarding. “I caught an edge and hit the water, which was like glass,” she says. “I got up and was walking and talking normally, my dad said. But I was in the shower a few hours later and the hot water ‘brought me back to life.’ I couldn’t remember how I got in the shower.” “When I was in second grade I wasn’t old enough to realize what it was like not to remember what had happened, but this time I was 16 and to not remember was terrifying,” she says, pausing while choosing her words. Determined to start her junior year at VMS the following day, Baker was tired and the lights bothered her. Additionally, her athletic director would not let her train with the lacrosse team until she received proper clearance. “That’s what sparked my interest in concussions, going through the whole protocol of returning to my sport. It’s one thing to sit in a dark room over the course of the summer until you feel better, but it is another when you need to be cleared. I am glad the trainers made me go through this because they cared about my well-being,” Baker says. Now a sophomore at the University of Colorado in Boulder, Baker is studying integrative physiology and hopes to become a physical therapist or physician’s assistant and help student athletes return to their sport after a brain injury. Howard Heads Sports Medicine physical therapist Brittney Huntimer, who specializes in concussion and return-to-sport treatment and management, is as much 2 4 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES
an advocate of organized sports as she is of injury education and prevention. “There are great things involved with organized sports. We just want the kids to be safe,” she says. Huntimer notes that it can be confusing for parents who aren’t aware of the new concussion guidelines; she wants parents to be a part of the process and see the neurocognitive test results. “We are working with medical professionals, coaches, athletic directors and others within the school system to see that parents and kids are getting the same information,” she says. “It doesn’t have to be a huge hit to the head to be a concussion. If you have a hit to the head and you have symptoms, you have a concussion,” she says, adding that there are doctors, therapists and athletic trainers on site at many sporting events. Prior to participating in sports, all Eagle County high school athletes must be cleared by a physician. Each spring, Vail Valley Medical Center and The Steadman Clinic’s physicians, physical therapists and athletic trainers volunteer their time to provide free preparticipation physicals to ensure every student-athlete is healthy to compete. The students are screened for vision, blood pressure, and general, heart and orthopaedic health. Baseline neurocognitive tests are also administered, and student-athletes and their parents are offered educational materials and the opportunity to speak with healthcare professionals who specialize in injury prevention, when to return to sport after injury and physical rehabilitation. “In the 12 years I’ve done pre-participation physicals, I’ve met an increasing number of athletes and parents who want to learn more about concussions,” says Brandie Martin, a certified athletic trainer at The Steadman Clinic and director of the athletic training program for Eagle County School District. “I have also seen an increase in the number of reported concussions, which may mean that our initiatives to educate athletes about the danger of concussions is being heard.” “It’s important for kids to know the signs as well,” says Greene. “If two friends are skiing and one of them gets hurt, his buddy can know what signs to look for. It’s one of the things we teach.” In 2015, Greene and her team of volunteers educated over 12,000 people about brain and spinal cord injuries and donated 1,142 bike and ski helmets to children and adults in the community through Vail Valley Medical Center’s ThinkFirst program. She has also formed a pledge, which she asks children and parents to sign—a formal promise to think first, wear a helmet, fasten your seatbelt and protect your brain. Vail Valley Medical Center ThinkFirst | vvmc. com/thinkfirst | (970) 477-5166 -■
Sunday June 25 to Tuesday July 4
V
ail, Colorado will once again host the Vail Lacrosse Shootout. Lacrosse players from across the country, ages 17 to 60-plus will compete in eight divisions over ten days, once again bringing exciting, fast-paced and competitive lacrosse action to the Vail Valley! For more information, visit www.vaillacrosse.com
T
his year the Vail Lacrosse Shootout will partner with Thompson Brothers Lacrosse Camps to host a lacrosse camp for youth and high school players. The camp offers an exciting opportunity for lacrosse players to learn stick skills and game winning strategies from the legendary Thompson Brothers. The youth camp will take place on Wednesday, June 28 and Thursday, June 29, followed by a “play day” on Friday, June 30 at Homestake Peak School Stadium in EagleVail. For additional information and to register for the camp, visit www.thompsonbrotherslacrosse.us.
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 2 5
KIDS
ARE YOU READY? Make sure you know the rules and have the right gear to stay safe, have fun and be a successful adventure racer.
GEAR LIST EACH PARTICIPANT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR: •
Bike helmet
•
Bike gloves
•
Mountain bike, preferably with gears and hand brakes. Check tire pressure, brakes and that the seat is properly adjusted
•
Bike shorts are recommended
•
Sunscreen
•
Light coat or rain jacket. We race rain or shine
•
Socks and sturdy shoes. No open toe shoes
•
10oz water bottle or hydration pack
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Small backpack or hydration pack to carry gear
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One first aid kit with a small plastic bag containing wet wipes, bandages, white tape and first aid ointment
PROVIDED BY RACE ORGANIZERS: •
Staff will have additional first aid essentials for use as needed
•
Climbing harnesses will be provided. You may also bring your own
RACE RULES •
Each racer must wear their helmet and bike gloves
•
Teams must carry the map they receive and use it to navigate the course
•
Participants must stay with their teammates throughout the race and arrive and complete checkpoints together. Stamps will only be given after both team members have completed a challenge
•
Obstacles must be completed in order. If an obstacle is missed, the team must go back and complete it before moving on
•
Teams will complete obstacles in the order in which they arrive at the checkpoints
•
If you come across another team in trouble, you must stop and help. Teamwork pertains to both your own partner and other teams on the course.
•
If you need help or guidance, you may ask race staff and volunteers for assistance
•
All teams must carry a first aid kit with them
•
Have fun!
2 6 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES
Keep your kids active and make your backyard exciting! www.slackersline.com | Denver, CO 2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 2 7
PARENTS
SPECTATOR GUIDE Parents are welcome to follow their adventure racers throughout the course to cheer them on and take photos; however, we ask that you don’t interfere with any of the racers while on course. To keep up with your racer during the race you will need to be prepared to move quickly. Sturdy running shoes, a backpack and a mountain bike are recommended. Alternatively, you can position yourself at the following viewing areas to maximize your spectating of specific challenges. Please remember this race is for the kids and we ask that you don’t interfere with your own kids or any other racers on the course. Please note Friday expert course racers will be riding up the gondola and you will not be permitted to ride in the same gondola car as them. You can ride up the gondola ahead of your racer and cheer them on from the top but you will need a valid 2017/18 Epic Pass or a single day foot pass to access the gondola. From there you can ride back down the gondola and watch from the viewing areas described below. If you choose to follow along with your racers from the top of the gondola, you will need a mountain bike. On-mountain spectator maps will be available to parents on race day. Even with a bike, it will be extremely difficult to follow your kids on this section.
VIEWING AREAS MOUNTAIN PLAZA / GONDOLA ONE
BRIDGE STREET CORRIDOR
BETTY FORD ALPINE GARDENS
From here, you can watch the start of the race, bike transition, a number of obstacles and the finish.
By walking down Bridge Street to the Covered Bridge, you can see the climbing wall challenge, portions of the tubing, zipline (Saturday and Sunday only) and you can easily walk to the tubing take out at International Bridge.
Friday Only Friday’s longer race travels through the lower bench of Ford Park/Betty Ford Alpine Gardens along Gore Creek. From this area, spectators can cheer on their racers at two different obstacles and be positioned to watch portions of the tubing challenge.
2 8 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES
it’s gotta be
the shoes!
Riverwalk in Edwards | ptarmigansports.com | 970-926-8144 2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 2 9
SUGGESTED ITINERARY FRIDAY
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
Watch the start of the race in Viewing Area 1 and enjoy a coffee while you wait for competitors to return from the first leg of the competition or ride to the top of the gondola prior to your child’s start time to send them off from the top. Take the gondola back down and cheer them on at the transition as they begin the trekking portion of the race. Follow the bike path past Golden Peak and cross Vail Valley Drive down into Ford Park/Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. You can wait for your racers at the Amphitheater Bridge and follow them through the challenges in Ford Park. While racers navigate the river bed and tubing challenges, you can follow them on the Betty Ford stream walk. When you get to the Covered Bridge, turn left to climbing wall then follow racers to Viewing Area 1 and the final few obstacles before the finish.
Watch the start of the race and stay in Viewing Area 1 until racers return from the first leg of the competition. Cheer them on at the transition then head down Bridge Street to the Covered Bridge. Once they enter the river in their tube, go back up Bridge Street to the Children’s Fountain and head to International Bridge to watch the tubing take-out. From there, follow racers to the climbing challenge and then return to Viewing Area 1 to watch the final obstacles and greet your racers at the finish! -■
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Lunchboxes
MADE
EASY! Yummy for kids, easy for you and packed with Horizon® organic goodness. Look for Horizon® organic milk, cheese, crackers and more — available at Kroger. ©2017 WhiteWave Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 3 1
FAMILY
ADVENTURE ZONE ADVENTURE ZONE TOYOTA Toyota’s ‘Let’s Go Places’ spirit supports and encourages people of all ages to get outside and explore new environments as part of life’s journey into the unknown. Make sure to head to the “Toyota Terrain” Tent to pick up your complimentary Adventure Photo that was taken on the race course. In addition, racers and their cheer team can get decked out with colored hair spray and temporary tattoos! If you are a Toyota owner, we have a special gift for you! Make sure you stick around for the awards ceremony when Toyota will be presenting the Toyota Spirit Award. The award will be given to the team who works together with loyalty, enthusiasm, and cooperation, while encouraging other teams along the way.
B4 ADVENTURES We are a Colorado based outdoor/ activity gear company offering fun ziplines, trick slacklines, cool outdoor adventure kits, screaming water slides and now in 2017 exclusively offering the exciting “train like a warrior” NINJALINE gear. Look for these quality brands at your favorite retailer: slackers, VOODOO Slacklines, playzone-fit and Adventure Station. (Local retailer KidSport)
CLIF KID CLIF Kid® makes nutritious snacks from organic ingredients that are specially-crafted for kids’ developing taste buds and active lives. Stop by our booth at the Kids Adventure 3 2 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES
Games™ Family Adventure Zone and enjoy a sample of our NEW CLIF Kid ZBar® Filled Baked Energy Snack. For more information on CLIF Kid® and our portfolio of products visit www.clifbar.com.
HORIZON ORGANICS Come and make a cheer card for your favorite team while sampling Horizon snacks. Horizon is one of the Kids Adventure Games™ national sponsors.
CAVE OF CONFUSION The Cave of Confusion is an interactive, mind blowing and body bending experience! This enclosed maze has twists and turns that will challenge both the young and the old feeding that competitive spirit in all of us. From 5 to 50 years - the Cave of Confusion will keep you curious - can you go any faster? Try it again!
SKIPPER AND SCOUT CLIMBING WALL Kids of all ages can discover their inner mountain climber on the free climbing wall. Anyone can show off their skills. Only a signed waiver and a sense of adventure required!
VAIL VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER HELMET SAFETY ZONE Visit VVMC to test your “noggin” at their helmet safety demonstration and activities.
STEADMAN CLINIC SPIRIT STATION Unleash your creativity at the Steadman Clinic Spirit Station! Families can make homemade signs to cheer on their adventure racers.
IVIVVA Ivivva is Lululemon’s young girls athletic line making technical, athletic stylish clothing for girls sizes 6 to 14 that connects them through movement. From running and yoga to dance and goal-setting, Ivivva stores offer a variety of complimentary athletic classes and Dreams & Goals programs that inspire girls to dream big. You can find us locally at Skipper and Scout or in Denver located inside the Cherry Creek Mall & in Lone Tree at the Park Meadows Mall.
KIDSPORT Staff will be on hand allowing the kids to demo several of the interactive toys and gear featured in KidSPORT.
KIDS A.G. MERCHANDISE TENT Come visit us at Mountain Plaza for Kids A.G. merchandise and product from Hydroflask, Grand Trunk and LuminAid.
CLINICS
Fa m i ly
Mud
Run
all ages welcome! Sat, Aug 12 4:30 p.m. Vail Village Kids: $10 PreReg | $15 Day-of adults: $20 PreReg | $25 Day-of Family of 4: $50 PreReg | $60 Day-of
Clinics are open to Kids A.G. athletes and the public and free to everyone. MOUNTAIN PLAZA Friday, Saturday 9:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:30 p.m.
VENTURE SPORTS BASIC BIKE MAINTENANCE The professionals at Venture Sports will go over what to check on your bike before your ride; tire pressure, brakes, shifting etc. and what to clean and take are of after your ride. The Flat repair clinic will go over what you need to carry with you in order to change your flat and how to change the flat on your own while on the trail/road or at home.
DEMOS Mountain Plaza, Vail Village Saturday, Sunday 2:30 p.m.
INYODO MARTIAL ARTS Come watch students of all ages and belt ranks perform what they spend hours of time on the mat at Inyodo Martial arts perfecting. While watching the demo consider the positive influences and role models your family will build upon in life through training at Inyodo Martial Arts Academy.
vailrec.com | 970-479-2280
UNSURPASSED QUALITY SERVICE
The Vail Valley Jet Center is a proud community sponsor and sets the standard for aviation service excellence. We are committed to giving back to the beautiful Vail Valley while continuing to be a top-ranked FBO over the last 14 years. Plan your next getaway into the Vail Valley Jet Center and let us help you enjoy the incredible hiking, biking, and dining experiences you will only find in beautiful Colorado! Two Flight Schools No Noise Restrictions Car and Driver Concierge Service
871 Cooley Mesa Rd., Gypsum, CO 81637 970.524.7700 / www.VVJC.com
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 3 3
WHILE YOU’RE HERE DINING
SHOPPING
SMILING MOOSE DELI Sponsor of Sunday’s volunteer lunches
KIDSPORT PRESENTING SPONSOR
SmilingMooseDeli.com | 970.401.3055 Edwards Smiling Moose Deli proudly raised its antlers in 2003, when they opened their first delicious deli in the Vail Valley. Call for all of your catering needs.
KidsVail.com | 970.476.1666 Meadow Drive, Vail Village KidSPORT is Vail’s premier children’s gear and clothing shop. Find everything you’ll need for an outdoor adventure with the kids at great prices. KidSPORT is proud to carry many of the top brands in outdoor gear including Patagonia, Camelback, The North Face and many more.
YELLOW BELLY CHICKEN Sponsor of Friday’s volunteer lunches YellowBellyChicken.com | 970.343.4340 West Vail Great for dine-in or carry-out. Yellow Belly offers natural chicken, fried rotisserie, fresh sides and delicious salads. With plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options, there will be something for everyone in the family.
BLUE MOOSE PIZZA Sponsor of Saturday’s volunteer lunches BlueMoosePizza.com | 970.476.8666 Lionshead / Beaver Creek Village This lively Italian eatery offers the perfect locale for a fun and casual dining experience for groups of all kinds and sizes. Kid friendly, from the menu selection down to the paper tablecloths perfect for a creative coloring session, the Blue Moose has established itself as a family favorite amongst its guests.
VENTURE SPORTS Onsite repair during race days AvonVentureSports.com Vail / Avon Venture Sports Bike shop has been voted the BEST full-service sport shop in the Vail Valley too many times to list, as well as...Base Camp Vail...All Your Summer Adventure Needs In The Heart Of Vail Village...
SKIPPER AND SCOUT SkipperScout.com | 970.470.4380 Solaris, Vail Village Vail’s newest kid on the block is the place for modern kids to celebrate everything COOL about being a kid.
PTARMIGAN SPORTS
PtarmiganSports.com | 970.926.8144 Edwards Outdoor USA Magazine recently honored VENDETTA’S Ptarmigan Sports as one of the Top 100 outdoor VendettasVail.com | 970.476.5070 specialty retailers in the United States. We are Vail Village A local favorite for over 30 years. Vendetta’s committed to offering quality active lifestyle serves great pizza and Italian food in a fun, products with the highest level of customer service. relaxed atmosphere.
3 4 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES
ACTIVITIES TIMBERLINE TOURS TimberlineTours.com | 800.831.1414 Offering rafting and jeep adventures, Timberline is the largest and most experienced outfitter in the region. With state-of-the-art equipment and a staff famous worldwide for extraordinary skills and service. Timberline consistently sets the standard for safety and fun on the water and in the mountains.
IMAGINATION STATION VailRec.com | 970.479.2292 Lionshead Perfect for ages 2-12 and their families, the Imagination Station, a thoughtful play space, features a play wall to integrate physical and cognitive learning; a light table and builder boards that inspire problem-solving development and dexterity. Thoughts Flow water feature for endless hours of fun, a hyperbolic funnel that models planetary motion and a Mad Scientists Lab where children can make slime, “gak” and other messy projects
and features the best views in the valley with amazing sunsets, free live music and activities, food and drink specials and more.
VAIL RECREATION DISTRICT VailRec.com | 970.479.2279 The Vail Recreation District offers year-round fun for all ages including golf at the Vail Golf Club, learning and discovery at the Imagination Station, youth programs, sports leagues and summer camps for all ages, ice skating and hockey at Dobson Ice Arena, naturalistic programs at the Vail Nature Center, tennis, gymnastics and more.
GONDOLA ONE AND THE EAGLE BAHN GONDOLA Vail.com Enjoy scenic rids and bike hauls on Gondola One and the Eagle Bahn Gondola this summer, offering views of magnificent peaks and a variety of trails for hiking and biking.
FRIDAY AFTERNOON CLUB Vail.com | 970.754.8245 Guests and locals alike kickoff the weekend with Vail’s Friday Afternoon Club (FAC) at Epic Discovery high atop Vail Mountain. FAC takes place on Talon’s Deck every Friday
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 3 5
FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS Can kids compete with a teammate that is a different age? Yes. The age group will be determined by the age of the oldest teammate Can teams be coed? Yes. My child does not have a teammate. Can he/she still register? Will you find them a teammate? No, unfortunately this is a team event and you must register with a partner. If my child does not have a partner can I sign my child up to save a spot and then find a partner? No, we ask that you submit your registration as a team. Registration forms will not be confirmed until both teammate information is complete and payment is received. What is included in the entry fee? Your child’s entry fee includes an athlete shirt, a goodie bag with treats from race sponsors, pre race training tips from adventure racer and course designer Billy Mattison, a medal of completion upon finishing the race, an after party with post race refreshments and raffle for all participants. What happens if there is bad weather on race day? The race will take place rain or shine. In the event there is lightning in the area, the race director will make the appropriate call to delay or cancel the race. No refunds will be given if the race is canceled due to weather. I signed up in March but something has come up and I need to cancel. Can I receive a refund? All cancellations received one week prior to race day will receive a refund minus a $15 processing fee. Any cancellations received after that date will not receive a refund. For questions, contact 3 6 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES
info@kidsadventuregames.com or call (970) 401-3804. My child’s partner cannot compete anymore. Can they race with a different partner? Yes, race registrations are transferable. Can I accompany my child during the race? You can accompany your child throughout the race to watch them at different challenges. However, we ask you to refrain from helping/ interfering with your child or other teams. Course marshals will be available to assist children having difficulty. The satisfaction your child will feel when finishing the race is in large part determined by the knowledge they did it themselves. Does my child need any special clothing or footwear for this event? Moisture wicking clothing and closed toe running shoes are recommended. They are required to wear a helmet and biking gloves throughout the entire competition. No jeans. Bring a towel for after the event as they will get wet. What special equipment does my child need? Each child will need a geared mountain bike with hand brakes, a helmet and bike gloves. Additionally, each child will need to carry the following items with them during the event: • First Aid Kit: small plastic bag with some wet wipes, band-aids, white tape, antibiotic ointment • Sunscreen • 10 oz water • Light snack • Small backpack • Light coat or rain jacket
Buy any sandwich, wrap, or salad and get a 2nd of equal or lesser value FREE when you redeem this coupon. Not valid with any other offers. Only valid at the Edwards location. Offer expires 9/30/17.
1170 EDWARDS VILLAGE BLVD. EDWARDS
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 3 7
THANK YOU A HUGE THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS. THE KIDS ADVENTURE GAMES WOULDN’T BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT YOUR SUPPORT!
R
• • • •
KidSPORT Skipper & Scout Venture Sports Axis Sports Medicine • Timberline Tours
• CME • Vail Resorts • Steadman Clinic and Steadman Philppon Research Institute
• Holy Cross Energy • Vendetta’s • Vail Valley Medical Center • Ptarmigan Sports • Simply Massage
• Inyodo Martial Arts • Say No More Promotions • KZYR 97.7 • Antlers at Vail • Evergreen Lodge
LODGING PARTNERS The Antlers at Vail hotel offers a unique Vail lodging experience in an incomparable setting on beautiful Gore Creek, in the Lionshead area facing Vail Mountain. Ranging from studio suites to four bedroom vacation homes, all spacious condo rentals include a full kitchen, private balcony, free high-speed internet access, free parking and more. Special Kids Adventure Games™ discounted rates start at $235 for spacious studios to one bedroom with bunk condominiums. Call 1-800843-8245 or book online by clicking Antlers at Vail 2017 Kids Adventure Games™ Exclusive Rates.
The Evergreen Lodge is pleased to offer the following discounted hotel room rates, August 9-13: •
Wed., Aug. 9: Rates starting at $129 for two queens valleyside
•
Thurs., Aug. 10: Rates starting at $139 for two queens valleyside
•
Fri., Aug. 11 and Saturday, Aug. 12: Rates starting at $169 for two queens valleyside
Rates do not include tax of 9.8 percent and hotel’s service fee of $15+tax per night. Rates are based on single/double occupancy. Rates are subject to change based on availability. Call 970-476-7810 to receive the discounted Kids Adventure Games offer.
Editors: Lisa Reeder, Jamie Gunion, Andy
Linke Designer: Andy Linke Photos: Scott Simper, Felix McLaughlan,
Jennifer Langille, Sarah Guyette, Linda Guerrette, Sue Morning, Cody Haskell Advertising: Lisa Reeder Content & Direction: Katie Coakley, Beth Pappas, Billy Mattison, Hélène Mattison, Jamie Gunion, Lisa Reeder, Vail Health Magazine, Laura Bell, Andy Linke, Alli Altman 3 8 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES
Special thanks to our dedicated race staff, volunteers and clinic coaches. Produced by:
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FILLEDIlicious!
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Take a nibble. There’s nut butter in the middle!
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NO ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS
NO HIGH-FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP
NONGMO
© 2017 Clif Bar & Company Trademarks and registered trademarks are owned by Clif Bar & Company, or used with permission. ZBD17.1455
2017 VAI L KI DS A DV E N T U R E G A M E S • 3 9
FOR THOSE WHO PREFER TO CONNECT IN PERSON. Whether you embark on an adventure in the great outdoors or a day of fun in the village, there’s always time for family. Check out all Vail has to offer at Vail.com.
4 0 • 2017 VAIL KID S ADV ENT U R E G AM ES