THE WORLDS MOST DANGEROUS FOOT RACE COMES TO THE NBH OF THE MOST DANGEROUS CITY IN AMERICA,
originally uploaded by terrybankert.
The hype on the Warrior dash Sounds like the spawn of Flint. The Warrior Dash is a mud crawling, fire leaping extreme run from hell!!!
WARRIOR DASH IS THE INTO AND OUT OF HELL
Saturday and Sunday 7/30 & 7/31 2011 at the Evert Cummings center. Known also as the Genesee County Fair Grounds in the past. Starts at 7:30 runs all day Sat and until done on Sunday. I am off to the race 6:18 am Sat. 7/30/11
“Warriot Dash” the event is a mud crawling, fire leaping n extreme run from hell. This fierce running series is held on the most challenged and ruged terrain across the Globe. Warriors conquor extreme obstacles, push their limit and celebrate with Kick Ass music, beer, and warriot helmets. [3]
Warrior Dash is the ultimate event for thrill-seeking athletes. This six-kilometer race is held on the most demanding and unique 143 acres of terrain the Midwest has to offer. Participants will take on 13 intense obstacles and celebrate their feat with music, beer and muddy shorts.[6]
Red Frog Events, a small Lincoln Park marketing company, came up with the idea and expects more than 80,000 participants nationally, a spokesman said. With each paying $45 to $80, some might say that's real frickin' money.[9]
More at
Today I recieved my Media pass for my Blogg "Good Morning Flint" which allows me to post to my Face Book Page and bring pictures here.
Thank you TV 12 for allowing this post.
This pass gets me anywhere on the course. God bless community journalism. I am just having a good time. I might even mud crawl with the participants to get that good shot. Thank You Martha for the rig in the picture.
I learned that there is no spectator admission charge when I picked up the credential, just restricted access to the course.$10 parking charge.
The organizers are favorable with the venue the runners feedback will make the decision to return I am sure.
There are almost 25,000 participants that run in 600 person waves over two days. They do not expect more than 3,000 on site at a time.
I bet the Sat Night Party is real kick butt . This look like real Flintoid stuff, I will see this through. I will post pictures from droid and Nikkon P80. Not exactly heavy duty equipment , I try but do not plan to give up my day job.
But TODAYI will be an embedded community reporter and post pics and thoughts here. Talk later-Terry
see
Now this was a CRAZY kind of fun!! What I thought would be an 'easy' 5k run with some obstacles thrown in, turned out to be so much MORE!! It was definitely NOT easy and it was definitely not just a couple 'little' obstacles. We had such a blast. It might be best to tell the story in pictures. We were just out there to have fun. Not go fast or set some sort of course record. I couldn't wait to just run for pure fun!![8]
Sounds like Flint on a Friday night, well all except the helments. We are a no helmet. Buts that another story [trb]
This spectsacular event is run by RED FROG EVENTS . They do 1. Refistration Nation, 2.The Great Urban Race, 3. Warrior Dash, and 4.Beach Palooza . They are out of Chicago. 320 W. Ohio St. , Suite 500, CHicago Il 60654. (312)-980-9983.[4]
Obstacles
Completion of all Warrior Dash obstacles may be hazardous. It is the responsibility of the participant to leave the course if they are unable to complete an obstacle.
Course officials are stationed at every obstacle for participant safety.
It is the responsibility of the participant to notify course officials if the participant feels their safety is in danger or they are injured.
Any participant who receives assistance from any spectator or non-competitor on any obstacle shall be ineligible to receive an award.
WITH 26,000 RACERS JUST HOW IS IT DONE?
THE RACERS GO IN Waves
Participants choose their designated wave time at the time of registration. Waves start every 30 minutes.
Participants are responsible for knowing Warrior Dash’s start time and check-in method.
Participants are encouraged to report to their assigned starting location at least 15 minutes prior to the start of their wave.[3]
HOW ARE THE RACERS DIVIDED UP
Divisions
Warrior Dash has the following divisions for men and women:
14-19 35-39 55-59
20-24 40-44 60-64
25-29 45-49 65-69
30-34 50-54 70+
Please note each wave consists of people from every age division. You may register for any available wave regardless of your age. Just choose the time you’d prefer to race when registering![3]
HOW IS TIME KEPT AND WHAT ARE THE RULES
Timing
Chip timing is used to record your time. The chip acts as a miniature transponder and is marked with a unique identification number corresponding to each Warrior. Participant’s time is automatically recorded when crossing the electronic equipment at the start and finish.
Make sure your chip is positioned low to the ground (below the knee) and stays tightly attached to your shoe at the start and finish of the race in order to receive your time. To secure your chip:
Un-lace one of your shoes half-way.
Weave both laces through the open sides of the chip.
Re-lace your shoe tightly. Due to the intensity of Warrior Dash, double-knotting is highly recommended.
Shoes don't have laces? Ask for reinforcements (zip ties) at packet pick-up![3]
WARRIOR DASH WILL ECONOMICALLY BENEFIT GENESEE COUNTY
GENESEE COUNTY, Michigan — Nearly $5 million is expected to benefit Genesee County businesses from this weekend's Warrior Dash event in Genesee Township, according to a study done for the county's Parks and Recreation Commission.[1]
A STUDY SAYS OUR BENEFIT IS $4,875,392
Indianapolis, Ind.-based PROS Consulting LLC has estimated a impact of $4,875,392 from participants, as well as 168 jobs from tourist spending, according to the study.[1]
PARKS AND RECREATION WAS THE BENEFIT IS $6,000,000
Genesee County Parks and Recreation Director Amy McMillan said the figures do not include information of Red Frog employees staying in the area local contractors working on the event and spectators, which could push the total impact to around $6 million.[1]
WHAT DO THESE RACERS WIN?
Warrior Prizes
Top Three Overall
The top three overall times for both males and females win a custom engraved steel Warrior helmet.
Top Three in each Division
The top three times in each age division for males and females win a steel Warrior helmet trophy.
Craziest Costume
Costumes are highly encouraged! Contestants are called on stage where the winner is determined by audience applause. The best costume wins a prize. [3]
A VARIETY OF BUSINESS WILL BENEFIT FROM THE RACE
Businesses, including restaurants and hotels, and non-profit organizations are expected to receive a positive impact from the event that's expected to draw around a combined total of 60,000 participants and spectators. [1]
Area hotels, eateries and other businesses are eagerly anticipating the estimated $4 million-plus economic impact of the nearly 25,000 registered “warriors” and the expected 30,000 spectators attending the competition Saturday and Sunday at the Cummings Center in Genesee Township.
And more than two dozen local nonprofit groups providing volunteers are slated to reap a financial windfall of their own.[2]
Six hotels with 611 rooms along Hill Road, which were listed on the Warrior Dash website, are completely booked for Saturday night, said Mona Murphy, sports sales manager with the Flint Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.[2]
“Besides our hotels, it’s going to impact our restaurants, pubs,” Murphy said. “The atmosphere is so party-like. They want to go some place and celebrate, and it’s a fun time for everybody.”
The area’s last big event —last weekend’s Vintage Chevrolet Club of America celebration in Flint — drew more than 1,600 people for an entire week to local hotels, generating more than $1 million for local businesses.[2]
Now those businesses are counting on many of this weekend’s warriors to eat, drink and shop as well as “dash.”[2]
“It’s great that they’re coming to Flint, because of the impact it’s going to have on the local restaurants, shopping and hotels,” said Sheryl Champine, director of sales for the Holiday Inn Gateway Centre and Courtyard Marriott and Residence Inn in Mundy Township, where a total of 115 room nights have been booked by Warrior Dash participants.
Nagham Yousif, general manager of the Holiday Inn Express on Longway Boulevard in Flint, is looking forward to welcoming the visitors. A block of 44 rooms already has been reserved for participants.[2]
“It’s bringing all different kind of people from cities all around to visit Flint,” Yousif said.[2]
WHERE DO THEY THE RACERS COME FROM
More than 9,000 of the roughly 25,000 participants are traveling from more than 75 miles away, according to the study.[1]
Participants are expected from 44 different states, including Alaska and Hawaii, said Amy McMillan, Genesee County Parks and Recreation director, who noted Wolverine Campground in Columbiaville also is sold out for the weekend.[2]
DOES THIS RACE INTO AND OUT OF HELL HAVE RULES? Rules & Guidelines
The following rules and guidelines are intended to help create a fun and safe event for all participants.
Participants must abide by all instructions given from the race director, race staff, volunteers and medical personnel.
Participants understand and acknowledge Warrior Dash is an extreme event and accept all risks associated with the event.
Participants must be physically able to complete the course and all obstacles.
Participants must be 14 years-old or older on race day in order to participate.
Participants must wear the provided Warrior Dash bib number clearly shown on the front. No participant will be allowed to race without an official bib number.
Several videographers and photographers are stationed along the course. Participants agree to allow the event producer (Red Frog Events) to use any pictures or video footage of the event for future promotional purposes.
Baby joggers, baby strollers, in-line skates, bicycles, skateboards or any other type of wheeled device are strictly prohibited on the course.
Urinating or defecating on or anywhere near the course is strictly prohibited.
Registration is closed when the maximum capacity is reached.[3]
Warrior Safety
Warrior Dash medical personnel may examine any participant who appears to be injured or suffering. The medical personnel may remove any participant from the event if in the opinion of the medical personnel the participant needs to be removed.
Participants assume all responsibility for all medical expenses incurred as a result of training and/or participating in Warrior Dash, including but not limited to hospitalization, ambulance transportation or physician services.
The event producers (Red Frog Events) reserve the right to cancel or delay the race due to severe weather or in the event of a disaster.
We highly recommend participants wear running shoes. Participants should dress appropriately.[3]
HAVE THERE BEEN INJURIES
Running 10 miles through cold, wet, muddy conditions; navigating obstacles which include dodging live electrical wires, sprinting through “Fire Walks,” and crossing muddy pits by climbing across “Funky Monkey” bars which have been greased with butter at random intervals; does this sound like a fun way to spend your weekend? For many people, it does. Last weekend at Bear Creek, Pennsylvania, approximately 10,000 people came out to compete in the Tough Mudder race, which included the events described above, plus about a dozen more. Unfortunately for many participants, races such as these may also include serious injuries.[7]
A fully staffed medical tent is on-site, and two ambulances are assigned as well, said Alex Yount, a Red Frog spokesman who directs some of the Warrior Dashes. He said there are usually bruises and minor burns but few serious injuries.[9]
For people who want more of a challenge than traditional races like a 5K or the Broad Street Run, events like the Tough Mudder, Muddy Buddy, and Warrior Dash have started to appear across the country. These competitions offer a new twist: a long, grueling race course, filled with mud, cold water, fire, and other obstacles limited only by the organizers’ imaginations. Unfortunately, while competitors at these races expect to find a tough but enjoyable race course, some participants may end up getting seriously injured. For instance, at the recent Tough Mudder in Bear Creek, Pennsylvania, the Funky Monkey was reportedly shut down after participants suffered injuries including sprained or broken ankles and broken legs. There were reports of dozens of injuries which required medical assistance.[7]
HOW MUCH DOES A VISITOR SPEND
Estimates of $180 spent per race visitor are based on a regional input-output modeling system from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis including zip code data of registered race participants. [1]
AREA NON PROFITS BENEFIT
Also reaping the financial benefits of the event will be more than two-dozen local nonprofit groups that are providing volunteers for the event.[2]
Groups that supply 25 or more volunteers will get up to $1,200 from Chicago, Ill.-based Red Frog Events, said race director Ryan Mortimer. If the groups volunteer for each of the four scheduled shifts, they can make up to $4,800.[2]
“We like to keep everything as local as we can,” Mortimer said. “It’s a great way to help staff the event and give local charities a way to raise money and have fun while doing it.”[2]
The offer prompted Jon Manse, director of community services for Catholic Charities of Shiawassee & Genesee Counties, to recruit 35 volunteers from the North End Soup Kitchen.
“It is important for us to take advantage of fundraising opportunities because without them, many of our programs or services would not be funded,” Manse said.[2]
The agency will use the money for a seven-week Catholic Charities summer camp for up to 40 children between 5 and 12 at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Mt. Morris.[2]
“This is our first year with the Warrior Dash and (we) hope to make it an annual event,” Manse said.[2]
The Mt. Morris Knights of Columbus and the Flint Powers Catholic cross-country runners teamed up to volunteer.[2]
“We’re kind of tight for money and we’re always looking for ways to make ends meet,” said Tim Murphy, deputy grand marshal for the Knights group.[2]
The group will split the money with the cross country team and donate part of their funds to a local soup kitchen.[2]
Even one small business in Oakland County may be feeling the Dash’s economic impact.
Lloyd “Ed” Coe, owner of Ed’s Broadway Gift and Costume in Lake Orion, noted Viking accessories have been flying off the shelves at the costume shop recently.[2]
VIKING HELEMENT
“We had a run on Viking helmets, so maybe that’s associated with that,” Coe said. “I know a lot of people have also been buying Viking costumes.” [2]
WHO RUNS THE GROUP RUNNING THIS EVENT
Title/Organization:
Joe Reynolds, Owner, Red Frog Events
Years in industry:
3 years
Years in current position:
3 years
What is the mission of your organization?
We create fun and extraordinary events through innovation, creativity, and top-notch participant service, while laughing all the way.
What events does your organization hold?
We offer two types of events, Great Urban Race, which was our first event, and our newest event, Warrior Dash. Great Urban Race is a scavenger hunt in which teams of two race all over a city while trying to solve 12 clues. There’s no set course, since the racers determine their own path as they solve the clues, but the length is generally somewhere around six miles. Winners finish in one and a half to three hours, while the majority come in somewhere between three and four hours. The race has grown tremendously since its start three years ago, when we held eight races. We more than doubled that in 2008 with 20 races, and we added a national championship. This year we added another city and have plans to add three more in 2010.
Warrior Dash was inspired by several competitions: Navy SEALs training, American Gladiators, Eco-Challenge and Ironman. The idea is to create the ultimate event for thrill-seeking athletes. We seek out the nation's most demanding and unique terrain and set competitors loose on it, conquering extreme obstacles like fire and barbed wire-covered mud pits, and then we celebrate with music, beer, warrior helmets and muddy shorts. We started planning the first Warrior Dash last year, a test race at a paintball course in Joliet, Illinois, and capped participation at 2000, which sold out. Logistically, it’s a challenge to start all those runners at once, so we do waves of 500 racers, then finish with a big party and awards ceremony at the end. After the success of the first Warrior Dash, we planned a series of nine races nationwide in 2010.
Nationally, how many participants do you have?
For Great Urban Race, we anticipate 17,000 in 2010; for Warrior Dash, we expect 60,000.
How many events are held each year?
In 2010, we will host 24 Great Urban Race events and nine Warrior Dash events.[5]
In what regions/locations are they held?
Great Urban Race is held in the heart of the biggest cities across the country. The event begins and ends at a restaurant or a park and can go basically anywhere in the city from there. For Warrior Dash, we look for a facility that offers one-of-a-kind terrain, at least 200 acres of it. Think ski resorts, paintball fields and the like. We’re even renting a nudist colony for one of next year’s Warrior Dash events.[5]
From an event management standpoint, what is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Our biggest and most important challenge is ensuring every single participant has a positive race experience by thinking about possible problems before they happen.[5]
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Red Frog Events was a one-person business when it started, so seeing it grow into a multi-million dollar business has been very rewarding.[5]
What is your biggest challenge in organizing your organization's events?
We are always looking for venues for our unique events that have a good location and can provide a fun day for participants.[5]
WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMEONE GETS HURT? HERES THE WAIVER THE RUNNERS SIGN
Waiver and Release
1. I understand that entering Warrior Dash is a hazardous activity.
2. I agree not to participate unless I am medically able.
3. I agree to abide by any decision of a race official relative to my ability to safely complete the race.
4. I agree to obey all civil and criminal laws at all times.
5. I assume all risks associated with competing in Warrior Dash, including but not limited to falls, contact with other participants, completing all obstacles, the effects of the weather, including high heat and/or humidity, all such risks being known and appreciated by me.
6. I understand and will abide by the rule that no wheeled baby conveyances or other wheeled means of conveyance, or pets are permitted in the race.
7. I grant permission to all of the foregoing to use any photographs, motion pictures, recordings or any other record of this event for any legitimate purpose including but not limited to promoting, advertising and marketing purposes. Any and all photographs, motion pictures, recordings or other records of the event and are and will become the sole property of Warrior Dash. 8. I understand that all entries are final with no refunds.
9. The official race director reserves the right in any event of emergency or local or national disaster to cancel the race and in the event of cancellation or change there is no refund of entry fees.
10. Participants are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior at all times, including obeying all laws. This includes respect for all people, equipment, and facilities, and cooperative, positive participation. Warrior Dash may dismiss anyone whose behavior endangers safety or negatively endangers safety or negatively affects a race, a person, a facility, or property of any type or kind.
Waiver & Release of all claims & assumption of risk I recognize and acknowledge that there are certain risks of physical injury to participants in Warrior Dash, and I voluntarily agree to assume the full risk of any and all injuries, damages or loss, regardless of severity, that my minor child/ward or I may sustain as a result of said participation. I further agree to waive and relinquish all claims I or my minor child/ward may have (or accrue to me or my child/ward) as a result of participating in these activities against Red Frog Events, Inc. including its officials, agents, volunteers, sponsors, and employees (hereinafter collectively referred to as Red Frog Events). I do hereby fully release and forever discharge Red Frog Events from any and all claims for injuries, damages, or loss that my minor child/ward or I may have or which may accrue to me or my minor child/ ward and arising out of, connected with, or in any way associated with the race, program or activities. I have read and fully understand the above important information, warning of risk, assumption of risk and waiver and release of all claims. When registering online, your online signature shall substitute for and have the same legal effect as an original form signature. PARTICIPATION WILL BE DENIED, if the Signature of an adult participant or parent/guardian and date are not signed at the time and place of the race Red Frog Events is committed to conducting its race and activities in a safe manner and holds the safety of participants in high regard. Red Frog Events continually strives to reduce such risks and insists that all participants follow safety rules and instructions that are designed to protect the participants’ safety. However, participants and parents/guardians of minors registering for the race, programs/activities must recognize that there is an inherent risk of injury when choosing to participate in recreational activities/programs. You are solely responsible for determining if you or your minor child/ward is physically fit and/or skilled for the race or activities contemplated by this agreement. It is always advisable, especially if the participant is pregnant or disabled in any way or recently suffered an illness, injury or impairment, to consult a physician before undertaking any physical activity. I do hereby fully release and forever discharge Red Frog Events from any and all claims for injuries, damages or loss that my minor child/ward or I may have or which may accrue to me or my minor child/ward and arising out of, connected with, or in any way associated with these programs/activities. I have read and fully understand the above important information, warning of risk, assumption of risk and waiver and release of all claims.
PARENT / GUARDIAN AGREEMENT FORM I, the parent, guardian, or teammates of the above named participant, hereby give my approval to this child’s participation in the race and its activities. I assume all risks and hazards incidental to such participation in Warrior Dash, and I hereby waive, release, absolve, indemnify, and agree to hold harmless Red Frog Events, Inc., its officers, heirs, assigns, administrators, personal representatives and executors, firms, corporations, businesses, and past and present employees, owners, agents, shareholders, volunteers, administrators, sponsors, supervisors, participants, all city, county, and state governments, and all sponsors, their representatives and successors and others persons, for any claim arising or of an injury to my/our child and from any and all claims, causes of actions, obligations, lawsuits, charges, complaints, contracts, controversies, covenants, agreements, promises, damages, costs, expenses, responsibilities, of whatsoever kind, nature or description, whether, direct or indirect, in law or in equity, in contract or in tort, or otherwise, whether known or unknown, from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising out of or connected with my child(ren) participation in this event. I consent to the foregoing and grant permission for him/her to participate in Warrior Dash. I acknowledge I have carefully read, accepted and agreed to the terms on this Release and Liability waiver, and know and understand their contents and I sign the same on my own free act and deed.[6]
Participants who are seriously injured at a race may require extensive medical treatment, may miss work, and may suffer injuries which never fully heal. Unfortunately for competitors who have been injured, these events generally require participants to sign a waiver releasing the organizers from any liability. A release, or exculpatory clause, may prevent a person from recovering their damages in a lawsuit, even in cases of negligence.[7]
[1]
[2]
[3]
[4]
[5]
[6]
[7]
[8]
[9]
“It’s great that they’re coming to Flint, because of the impact it’s going to have on the local restaurants, shopping and hotels,” said Sheryl Champine, director of sales for the Holiday Inn Gateway Centre and Courtyard Marriott and Residence Inn in Mundy Township, where a total of 115 room nights have been booked by Warrior Dash participants.
Nagham Yousif, general manager of the Holiday Inn Express on Longway Boulevard in Flint, is looking forward to welcoming the visitors. A block of 44 rooms already has been reserved for participants.[2]
“It’s bringing all different kind of people from cities all around to visit Flint,” Yousif said.[2]
WHERE DO THEY THE RACERS COME FROM
More than 9,000 of the roughly 25,000 participants are traveling from more than 75 miles away, according to the study.[1]
Participants are expected from 44 different states, including Alaska and Hawaii, said Amy McMillan, Genesee County Parks and Recreation director, who noted Wolverine Campground in Columbiaville also is sold out for the weekend.[2]
DOES THIS RACE INTO AND OUT OF HELL HAVE RULES? Rules & Guidelines
The following rules and guidelines are intended to help create a fun and safe event for all participants.
Participants must abide by all instructions given from the race director, race staff, volunteers and medical personnel.
Participants understand and acknowledge Warrior Dash is an extreme event and accept all risks associated with the event.
Participants must be physically able to complete the course and all obstacles.
Participants must be 14 years-old or older on race day in order to participate.
Participants must wear the provided Warrior Dash bib number clearly shown on the front. No participant will be allowed to race without an official bib number.
Several videographers and photographers are stationed along the course. Participants agree to allow the event producer (Red Frog Events) to use any pictures or video footage of the event for future promotional purposes.
Baby joggers, baby strollers, in-line skates, bicycles, skateboards or any other type of wheeled device are strictly prohibited on the course.
Urinating or defecating on or anywhere near the course is strictly prohibited.
Registration is closed when the maximum capacity is reached.[3]
Warrior Safety
Warrior Dash medical personnel may examine any participant who appears to be injured or suffering. The medical personnel may remove any participant from the event if in the opinion of the medical personnel the participant needs to be removed.
Participants assume all responsibility for all medical expenses incurred as a result of training and/or participating in Warrior Dash, including but not limited to hospitalization, ambulance transportation or physician services.
The event producers (Red Frog Events) reserve the right to cancel or delay the race due to severe weather or in the event of a disaster.
We highly recommend participants wear running shoes. Participants should dress appropriately.[3]
HOW MUCH DOES A VISITOR SPEND
Estimates of $180 spent per race visitor are based on a regional input-output modeling system from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis including zip code data of registered race participants. [1]
AREA NON PROFITS BENEFIT
Also reaping the financial benefits of the event will be more than two-dozen local nonprofit groups that are providing volunteers for the event.[2]
Groups that supply 25 or more volunteers will get up to $1,200 from Chicago, Ill.-based Red Frog Events, said race director Ryan Mortimer. If the groups volunteer for each of the four scheduled shifts, they can make up to $4,800.[2]
“We like to keep everything as local as we can,” Mortimer said. “It’s a great way to help staff the event and give local charities a way to raise money and have fun while doing it.”[2]
The offer prompted Jon Manse, director of community services for Catholic Charities of Shiawassee & Genesee Counties, to recruit 35 volunteers from the North End Soup Kitchen.
“It is important for us to take advantage of fundraising opportunities because without them, many of our programs or services would not be funded,” Manse said.[2]
The agency will use the money for a seven-week Catholic Charities summer camp for up to 40 children between 5 and 12 at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Mt. Morris.[2]
“This is our first year with the Warrior Dash and (we) hope to make it an annual event,” Manse said.[2]
The Mt. Morris Knights of Columbus and the Flint Powers Catholic cross-country runners teamed up to volunteer.[2]
“We’re kind of tight for money and we’re always looking for ways to make ends meet,” said Tim Murphy, deputy grand marshal for the Knights group.[2]
The group will split the money with the cross country team and donate part of their funds to a local soup kitchen.[2]
Even one small business in Oakland County may be feeling the Dash’s economic impact.
Lloyd “Ed” Coe, owner of Ed’s Broadway Gift and Costume in Lake Orion, noted Viking accessories have been flying off the shelves at the costume shop recently.[2]
VIKING HELEMENT
“We had a run on Viking helmets, so maybe that’s associated with that,” Coe said. “I know a lot of people have also been buying Viking costumes.” [2]
WHO RUNS THE GROUP RUNNING THIS EVENT
Title/Organization:
Joe Reynolds, Owner, Red Frog Events
Years in industry:
3 years
Years in current position:
3 years
What is the mission of your organization?
We create fun and extraordinary events through innovation, creativity, and top-notch participant service, while laughing all the way.
What events does your organization hold?
We offer two types of events, Great Urban Race, which was our first event, and our newest event, Warrior Dash. Great Urban Race is a scavenger hunt in which teams of two race all over a city while trying to solve 12 clues. There’s no set course, since the racers determine their own path as they solve the clues, but the length is generally somewhere around six miles. Winners finish in one and a half to three hours, while the majority come in somewhere between three and four hours. The race has grown tremendously since its start three years ago, when we held eight races. We more than doubled that in 2008 with 20 races, and we added a national championship. This year we added another city and have plans to add three more in 2010.
Warrior Dash was inspired by several competitions: Navy SEALs training, American Gladiators, Eco-Challenge and Ironman. The idea is to create the ultimate event for thrill-seeking athletes. We seek out the nation's most demanding and unique terrain and set competitors loose on it, conquering extreme obstacles like fire and barbed wire-covered mud pits, and then we celebrate with music, beer, warrior helmets and muddy shorts. We started planning the first Warrior Dash last year, a test race at a paintball course in Joliet, Illinois, and capped participation at 2000, which sold out. Logistically, it’s a challenge to start all those runners at once, so we do waves of 500 racers, then finish with a big party and awards ceremony at the end. After the success of the first Warrior Dash, we planned a series of nine races nationwide in 2010.
Nationally, how many participants do you have?
For Great Urban Race, we anticipate 17,000 in 2010; for Warrior Dash, we expect 60,000.
How many events are held each year?
In 2010, we will host 24 Great Urban Race events and nine Warrior Dash events.[5]
In what regions/locations are they held?
Great Urban Race is held in the heart of the biggest cities across the country. The event begins and ends at a restaurant or a park and can go basically anywhere in the city from there. For Warrior Dash, we look for a facility that offers one-of-a-kind terrain, at least 200 acres of it. Think ski resorts, paintball fields and the like. We’re even renting a nudist colony for one of next year’s Warrior Dash events.[5]
From an event management standpoint, what is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Our biggest and most important challenge is ensuring every single participant has a positive race experience by thinking about possible problems before they happen.[5]
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Red Frog Events was a one-person business when it started, so seeing it grow into a multi-million dollar business has been very rewarding.[5]
What is your biggest challenge in organizing your organization's events?
We are always looking for venues for our unique events that have a good location and can provide a fun day for participants.[5]
WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMEONE GETS HURT? HERES THE WAIVER THE RUNNERS SIGN
Waiver and Release
1. I understand that entering Warrior Dash is a hazardous activity.
2. I agree not to participate unless I am medically able.
3. I agree to abide by any decision of a race official relative to my ability to safely complete the race.
4. I agree to obey all civil and criminal laws at all times.
5. I assume all risks associated with competing in Warrior Dash, including but not limited to falls, contact with other participants, completing all obstacles, the effects of the weather, including high heat and/or humidity, all such risks being known and appreciated by me.
6. I understand and will abide by the rule that no wheeled baby conveyances or other wheeled means of conveyance, or pets are permitted in the race.
7. I grant permission to all of the foregoing to use any photographs, motion pictures, recordings or any other record of this event for any legitimate purpose including but not limited to promoting, advertising and marketing purposes. Any and all photographs, motion pictures, recordings or other records of the event and are and will become the sole property of Warrior Dash. 8. I understand that all entries are final with no refunds.
9. The official race director reserves the right in any event of emergency or local or national disaster to cancel the race and in the event of cancellation or change there is no refund of entry fees.
10. Participants are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior at all times, including obeying all laws. This includes respect for all people, equipment, and facilities, and cooperative, positive participation. Warrior Dash may dismiss anyone whose behavior endangers safety or negatively endangers safety or negatively affects a race, a person, a facility, or property of any type or kind.
Waiver & Release of all claims & assumption of risk I recognize and acknowledge that there are certain risks of physical injury to participants in Warrior Dash, and I voluntarily agree to assume the full risk of any and all injuries, damages or loss, regardless of severity, that my minor child/ward or I may sustain as a result of said participation. I further agree to waive and relinquish all claims I or my minor child/ward may have (or accrue to me or my child/ward) as a result of participating in these activities against Red Frog Events, Inc. including its officials, agents, volunteers, sponsors, and employees (hereinafter collectively referred to as Red Frog Events). I do hereby fully release and forever discharge Red Frog Events from any and all claims for injuries, damages, or loss that my minor child/ward or I may have or which may accrue to me or my minor child/ ward and arising out of, connected with, or in any way associated with the race, program or activities. I have read and fully understand the above important information, warning of risk, assumption of risk and waiver and release of all claims. When registering online, your online signature shall substitute for and have the same legal effect as an original form signature. PARTICIPATION WILL BE DENIED, if the Signature of an adult participant or parent/guardian and date are not signed at the time and place of the race Red Frog Events is committed to conducting its race and activities in a safe manner and holds the safety of participants in high regard. Red Frog Events continually strives to reduce such risks and insists that all participants follow safety rules and instructions that are designed to protect the participants’ safety. However, participants and parents/guardians of minors registering for the race, programs/activities must recognize that there is an inherent risk of injury when choosing to participate in recreational activities/programs. You are solely responsible for determining if you or your minor child/ward is physically fit and/or skilled for the race or activities contemplated by this agreement. It is always advisable, especially if the participant is pregnant or disabled in any way or recently suffered an illness, injury or impairment, to consult a physician before undertaking any physical activity. I do hereby fully release and forever discharge Red Frog Events from any and all claims for injuries, damages or loss that my minor child/ward or I may have or which may accrue to me or my minor child/ward and arising out of, connected with, or in any way associated with these programs/activities. I have read and fully understand the above important information, warning of risk, assumption of risk and waiver and release of all claims.
PARENT / GUARDIAN AGREEMENT FORM I, the parent, guardian, or teammates of the above named participant, hereby give my approval to this child’s participation in the race and its activities. I assume all risks and hazards incidental to such participation in Warrior Dash, and I hereby waive, release, absolve, indemnify, and agree to hold harmless Red Frog Events, Inc., its officers, heirs, assigns, administrators, personal representatives and executors, firms, corporations, businesses, and past and present employees, owners, agents, shareholders, volunteers, administrators, sponsors, supervisors, participants, all city, county, and state governments, and all sponsors, their representatives and successors and others persons, for any claim arising or of an injury to my/our child and from any and all claims, causes of actions, obligations, lawsuits, charges, complaints, contracts, controversies, covenants, agreements, promises, damages, costs, expenses, responsibilities, of whatsoever kind, nature or description, whether, direct or indirect, in law or in equity, in contract or in tort, or otherwise, whether known or unknown, from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising out of or connected with my child(ren) participation in this event. I consent to the foregoing and grant permission for him/her to participate in Warrior Dash. I acknowledge I have carefully read, accepted and agreed to the terms on this Release and Liability waiver, and know and understand their contents and I sign the same on my own free act and deed.[6]
[1]
http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2011/07/economic_impact_analysis_shows.html#incart_hbx
[2]
http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2011/07/post_223.html
[3]
http://www.warriordash.com/
[4]
http://www.redfrogevents.com/
[5]
http://www.sportsdestinations.com/ID-104-articledetails.aspx
[6]
https://www.signmeup.com/site/reg/register.aspx?fid=GD2V6K7
“It’s great that they’re coming to Flint, because of the impact it’s going to have on the local restaurants, shopping and hotels,” said Sheryl Champine, director of sales for the Holiday Inn Gateway Centre and Courtyard Marriott and Residence Inn in Mundy Township, where a total of 115 room nights have been booked by Warrior Dash participants.
Nagham Yousif, general manager of the Holiday Inn Express on Longway Boulevard in Flint, is looking forward to welcoming the visitors. A block of 44 rooms already has been reserved for participants.[2]
“It’s bringing all different kind of people from cities all around to visit Flint,” Yousif said.[2]
WHERE DO THEY THE RACERS COME FROM
More than 9,000 of the roughly 25,000 participants are traveling from more than 75 miles away, according to the study.[1]
Participants are expected from 44 different states, including Alaska and Hawaii, said Amy McMillan, Genesee County Parks and Recreation director, who noted Wolverine Campground in Columbiaville also is sold out for the weekend.[2]
DOES THIS RACE INTO AND OUT OF HELL HAVE RULES? Rules & Guidelines
The following rules and guidelines are intended to help create a fun and safe event for all participants.
Participants must abide by all instructions given from the race director, race staff, volunteers and medical personnel.
Participants understand and acknowledge Warrior Dash is an extreme event and accept all risks associated with the event.
Participants must be physically able to complete the course and all obstacles.
Participants must be 14 years-old or older on race day in order to participate.
Participants must wear the provided Warrior Dash bib number clearly shown on the front. No participant will be allowed to race without an official bib number.
Several videographers and photographers are stationed along the course. Participants agree to allow the event producer (Red Frog Events) to use any pictures or video footage of the event for future promotional purposes.
Baby joggers, baby strollers, in-line skates, bicycles, skateboards or any other type of wheeled device are strictly prohibited on the course.
Urinating or defecating on or anywhere near the course is strictly prohibited.
Registration is closed when the maximum capacity is reached.[3]
Warrior Safety
Warrior Dash medical personnel may examine any participant who appears to be injured or suffering. The medical personnel may remove any participant from the event if in the opinion of the medical personnel the participant needs to be removed.
Participants assume all responsibility for all medical expenses incurred as a result of training and/or participating in Warrior Dash, including but not limited to hospitalization, ambulance transportation or physician services.
The event producers (Red Frog Events) reserve the right to cancel or delay the race due to severe weather or in the event of a disaster.
We highly recommend participants wear running shoes. Participants should dress appropriately.[3]
HOW MUCH DOES A VISITOR SPEND
Estimates of $180 spent per race visitor are based on a regional input-output modeling system from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis including zip code data of registered race participants. [1]
AREA NON PROFITS BENEFIT
Also reaping the financial benefits of the event will be more than two-dozen local nonprofit groups that are providing volunteers for the event.[2]
Groups that supply 25 or more volunteers will get up to $1,200 from Chicago, Ill.-based Red Frog Events, said race director Ryan Mortimer. If the groups volunteer for each of the four scheduled shifts, they can make up to $4,800.[2]
“We like to keep everything as local as we can,” Mortimer said. “It’s a great way to help staff the event and give local charities a way to raise money and have fun while doing it.”[2]
The offer prompted Jon Manse, director of community services for Catholic Charities of Shiawassee & Genesee Counties, to recruit 35 volunteers from the North End Soup Kitchen.
“It is important for us to take advantage of fundraising opportunities because without them, many of our programs or services would not be funded,” Manse said.[2]
The agency will use the money for a seven-week Catholic Charities summer camp for up to 40 children between 5 and 12 at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Mt. Morris.[2]
“This is our first year with the Warrior Dash and (we) hope to make it an annual event,” Manse said.[2]
The Mt. Morris Knights of Columbus and the Flint Powers Catholic cross-country runners teamed up to volunteer.[2]
“We’re kind of tight for money and we’re always looking for ways to make ends meet,” said Tim Murphy, deputy grand marshal for the Knights group.[2]
The group will split the money with the cross country team and donate part of their funds to a local soup kitchen.[2]
Even one small business in Oakland County may be feeling the Dash’s economic impact.
Lloyd “Ed” Coe, owner of Ed’s Broadway Gift and Costume in Lake Orion, noted Viking accessories have been flying off the shelves at the costume shop recently.[2]
VIKING HELEMENT
“We had a run on Viking helmets, so maybe that’s associated with that,” Coe said. “I know a lot of people have also been buying Viking costumes.” [2]
WHO RUNS THE GROUP RUNNING THIS EVENT
Title/Organization:
Joe Reynolds, Owner, Red Frog Events
Years in industry:
3 years
Years in current position:
3 years
What is the mission of your organization?
We create fun and extraordinary events through innovation, creativity, and top-notch participant service, while laughing all the way.
What events does your organization hold?
We offer two types of events, Great Urban Race, which was our first event, and our newest event, Warrior Dash. Great Urban Race is a scavenger hunt in which teams of two race all over a city while trying to solve 12 clues. There’s no set course, since the racers determine their own path as they solve the clues, but the length is generally somewhere around six miles. Winners finish in one and a half to three hours, while the majority come in somewhere between three and four hours. The race has grown tremendously since its start three years ago, when we held eight races. We more than doubled that in 2008 with 20 races, and we added a national championship. This year we added another city and have plans to add three more in 2010.
Warrior Dash was inspired by several competitions: Navy SEALs training, American Gladiators, Eco-Challenge and Ironman. The idea is to create the ultimate event for thrill-seeking athletes. We seek out the nation's most demanding and unique terrain and set competitors loose on it, conquering extreme obstacles like fire and barbed wire-covered mud pits, and then we celebrate with music, beer, warrior helmets and muddy shorts. We started planning the first Warrior Dash last year, a test race at a paintball course in Joliet, Illinois, and capped participation at 2000, which sold out. Logistically, it’s a challenge to start all those runners at once, so we do waves of 500 racers, then finish with a big party and awards ceremony at the end. After the success of the first Warrior Dash, we planned a series of nine races nationwide in 2010.
Nationally, how many participants do you have?
For Great Urban Race, we anticipate 17,000 in 2010; for Warrior Dash, we expect 60,000.
How many events are held each year?
In 2010, we will host 24 Great Urban Race events and nine Warrior Dash events.[5]
In what regions/locations are they held?
Great Urban Race is held in the heart of the biggest cities across the country. The event begins and ends at a restaurant or a park and can go basically anywhere in the city from there. For Warrior Dash, we look for a facility that offers one-of-a-kind terrain, at least 200 acres of it. Think ski resorts, paintball fields and the like. We’re even renting a nudist colony for one of next year’s Warrior Dash events.[5]
From an event management standpoint, what is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Our biggest and most important challenge is ensuring every single participant has a positive race experience by thinking about possible problems before they happen.[5]
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Red Frog Events was a one-person business when it started, so seeing it grow into a multi-million dollar business has been very rewarding.[5]
What is your biggest challenge in organizing your organization's events?
We are always looking for venues for our unique events that have a good location and can provide a fun day for participants.[5]
WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMEONE GETS HURT? HERES THE WAIVER THE RUNNERS SIGN
Waiver and Release
1. I understand that entering Warrior Dash is a hazardous activity.
2. I agree not to participate unless I am medically able.
3. I agree to abide by any decision of a race official relative to my ability to safely complete the race.
4. I agree to obey all civil and criminal laws at all times.
5. I assume all risks associated with competing in Warrior Dash, including but not limited to falls, contact with other participants, completing all obstacles, the effects of the weather, including high heat and/or humidity, all such risks being known and appreciated by me.
6. I understand and will abide by the rule that no wheeled baby conveyances or other wheeled means of conveyance, or pets are permitted in the race.
7. I grant permission to all of the foregoing to use any photographs, motion pictures, recordings or any other record of this event for any legitimate purpose including but not limited to promoting, advertising and marketing purposes. Any and all photographs, motion pictures, recordings or other records of the event and are and will become the sole property of Warrior Dash. 8. I understand that all entries are final with no refunds.
9. The official race director reserves the right in any event of emergency or local or national disaster to cancel the race and in the event of cancellation or change there is no refund of entry fees.
10. Participants are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior at all times, including obeying all laws. This includes respect for all people, equipment, and facilities, and cooperative, positive participation. Warrior Dash may dismiss anyone whose behavior endangers safety or negatively endangers safety or negatively affects a race, a person, a facility, or property of any type or kind.
Waiver & Release of all claims & assumption of risk I recognize and acknowledge that there are certain risks of physical injury to participants in Warrior Dash, and I voluntarily agree to assume the full risk of any and all injuries, damages or loss, regardless of severity, that my minor child/ward or I may sustain as a result of said participation. I further agree to waive and relinquish all claims I or my minor child/ward may have (or accrue to me or my child/ward) as a result of participating in these activities against Red Frog Events, Inc. including its officials, agents, volunteers, sponsors, and employees (hereinafter collectively referred to as Red Frog Events). I do hereby fully release and forever discharge Red Frog Events from any and all claims for injuries, damages, or loss that my minor child/ward or I may have or which may accrue to me or my minor child/ ward and arising out of, connected with, or in any way associated with the race, program or activities. I have read and fully understand the above important information, warning of risk, assumption of risk and waiver and release of all claims. When registering online, your online signature shall substitute for and have the same legal effect as an original form signature. PARTICIPATION WILL BE DENIED, if the Signature of an adult participant or parent/guardian and date are not signed at the time and place of the race Red Frog Events is committed to conducting its race and activities in a safe manner and holds the safety of participants in high regard. Red Frog Events continually strives to reduce such risks and insists that all participants follow safety rules and instructions that are designed to protect the participants’ safety. However, participants and parents/guardians of minors registering for the race, programs/activities must recognize that there is an inherent risk of injury when choosing to participate in recreational activities/programs. You are solely responsible for determining if you or your minor child/ward is physically fit and/or skilled for the race or activities contemplated by this agreement. It is always advisable, especially if the participant is pregnant or disabled in any way or recently suffered an illness, injury or impairment, to consult a physician before undertaking any physical activity. I do hereby fully release and forever discharge Red Frog Events from any and all claims for injuries, damages or loss that my minor child/ward or I may have or which may accrue to me or my minor child/ward and arising out of, connected with, or in any way associated with these programs/activities. I have read and fully understand the above important information, warning of risk, assumption of risk and waiver and release of all claims.
PARENT / GUARDIAN AGREEMENT FORM I, the parent, guardian, or teammates of the above named participant, hereby give my approval to this child’s participation in the race and its activities. I assume all risks and hazards incidental to such participation in Warrior Dash, and I hereby waive, release, absolve, indemnify, and agree to hold harmless Red Frog Events, Inc., its officers, heirs, assigns, administrators, personal representatives and executors, firms, corporations, businesses, and past and present employees, owners, agents, shareholders, volunteers, administrators, sponsors, supervisors, participants, all city, county, and state governments, and all sponsors, their representatives and successors and others persons, for any claim arising or of an injury to my/our child and from any and all claims, causes of actions, obligations, lawsuits, charges, complaints, contracts, controversies, covenants, agreements, promises, damages, costs, expenses, responsibilities, of whatsoever kind, nature or description, whether, direct or indirect, in law or in equity, in contract or in tort, or otherwise, whether known or unknown, from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising out of or connected with my child(ren) participation in this event. I consent to the foregoing and grant permission for him/her to participate in Warrior Dash. I acknowledge I have carefully read, accepted and agreed to the terms on this Release and Liability waiver, and know and understand their contents and I sign the same on my own free act and deed.[6]
[1]
http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2011/07/economic_impact_analysis_shows.html#incart_hbx
[2]
http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2011/07/post_223.html
[3]
http://www.warriordash.com/
[4]
http://www.redfrogevents.com/
[5]
http://www.sportsdestinations.com/ID-104-articledetails.aspx
[6]
https://www.signmeup.com/site/reg/register.aspx?fid=GD2V6K7
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