XTERRA Portland Preview

XTERRA Portland

Date: August 14, 2010
Location: Forest Grove, OR
Venue: Hagg Lake
Course Distances: 1,000m swim, 25k mountain bike and approximate 5mi run
website: www.XTERRAPortland.com
Phone: 503-577-2757
email: xterraportland@gmail.com

XTERRA Portland isn't just another sporting event for the active Portland community.  It is the off-road triathlon in Oregon bringing in athletes from all over, of all levels, to compete and enjoy the outdoors.

In its inaugural year, 2009 XTERRA Portland exceeded all previous expectations and proved stage.  Pros and amateurs alike battled for position and pushed their speeds to levels that amazed spectators and fellow athletes.  The results were echoed by the same athletes at the National Championships when they took two of the top three overall amateur spots, and several northwest men and women made the podium in their age groups.  Competitors should expect nothing less in 2010 and should prepare for another mind blowing adventure!

Athletes can expect their agility, balance and control to be tested in each discipline of the race.

The race kicks off with a two buoy clockwise swim in Hagg Lake with water temperatures in the mid 70's.

The bike course is rolling single and double track that is relatively flat but technical.  Riders will need to react quickly as they are faced with sharp turns followed by short, steep climbs.  Their bike handling skills will be challenged as they are forced through several rocky or root filled sections.  Resting in the foothills of the Oregon Coast Range, Scoggins Valley may be the best place to ride a mountain bike in the metro area.  
The race will really heat up when athletes head out for the run. With some groomed and not so well-groomed trails, athletes will again be forced to test their stamina and balance. Scoggins Valley Park provides beautiful scenery, but runners better not spend too much time on the view and better stay focused on the course as they must navigate up steep ravines, cross creeks and hurdle logs.

Directly following the race, athletes should stick around for food, awards and the chance to learn more about XTERRA Portland's charity partner the Oregon Active Foundation. This year, a percentage of the proceeds will be donated to this foundation, an advocate for outdoor adventure. Learn more about the Oregon Active Foundation at www.oregonactivefoundation.org.

As a novice athlete looking for a new challenge or a seasoned veteran looking to match up against the country's best athletes, 2010 XTERRA Portland is the place to test your limits!

For full details and to register for XTERRA Portland, visit www.xterraportland.com