Adventure Racing (AR) today is comprised of three main disciplines, kayaking, mountain biking, and trekking (walking, hiking, running).  Most of these activities are done on trails, lakes, and sometimes on rivers and oceans. Basically, it sounds like a wilderness triathlon without the swimming, right? Not really.  What sets AR apart is the team aspect and the lack of a marked or set course.  Combining individual strengths with navigational skills will get a team to the finish line. 

TeamWork

Yes, adventure racing is a team sport.  Teams can be two, three and four person.  Coed teams are always encouraged and mandatory in many races.  Every teammate is expected to do all the race disciplines and the team must stay together at all times.  That means that a team with an elite kayaker, strong cyclist and a fast runner may not necessarily be the fastest team.  The individual strengths need to be shared throughout the race.  For example, the runner my carry most of the team gear (team food, clothing, and stuff) during  the run section, while the cyclist will take on the most load during the ride.  Additionally, tow lines may be employed during a race so stronger teammates can help weaker or fatigued team members.  Tow lines, usually consisting of a bungee cord with a clip on each end for the trek sections or a small dog leash attached to the seat post of a bike for the biking sections, are connected between teammates or teammates' bikes so that one person can "tow" the other.  Sounds strange but it is a very effective technique.