Red River Gorge American Classic, a/k/a The Fig VIII

60 miles of "Fig" n' Pain 

Adventure racing returns to eastern Kentucky for 2010 in the 8th annual Red River Gorge American Classic, affectionately known as "The Fig," after legendary US Forest Service Ranger Don Fig. 

This 12-hour race will challenge soloists and teams of 2/3/4 to mountain bike, trek, paddle, rappel, and navigate their way through the rugged terrain of the Red River Gorge, located in the heart of the Daniel Boone National Forest. 

The Gorge is a unique and scenic geological area designated and managed by the US Forest Service as a national natural landmark. The Gorge was sculpted by the Red River, Kentucky’s first National Wild and Scenic River, and is home to over 100 natural stone arches and other geological features that make it a world-renowned climbing mecca. Over 60 miles of designated National Recreation Trails wind through the heavily wooded and rugged topography of this spectacular forest area.  It is located adjacent to Natural Bridge State Resort Park.

The longest-running adventure race in Kentucky, the Fig has earned its reputation as a classic.  For 2010, it has earned a spot on the list of regional qualifiers for the 2011  USARA National Championship. 

NEWS FLASH:

Date is set for the Fig VIII.  Mark your calendars!  1.6.10 

Official results are posted and photos are available from race photographer Mike Skirvin.  See Results page for links.  11.16.09.

Pre-race briefing has gone out.  Click here for a copy.  11.03.09 

Racer communication #1 has gone out.  Click here for a copy. 10.16.09

At the close of early registration, we have 135 racers on the roster.   Click here for a current team roster. 10.10.09 

Registration nears 125 in the 11th hour of the early registration deadline!  We currently have 123 racers signed up, with 45 minutes remaining until the end of the early registration period.  Registered racers will receive the first racer communication in the next few days, with a gear list update and course information.  By the by, word has it that Pedal Power is putting together some fantastic swag bags and door prizes.  Be excited.  Be very excited. 10.7.09 

Entry fees now include camping Friday night at Red River Gorge Campground!  Look for this and other intriguing updates on the Schedule and FAQs pages.  8.28.09

Pedal Power Bike Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, is on board as a Gold Sponsor of the Fig VII!  Look for some awesome bike schwag in your race bags and on the prize table!  Be sure to thank them next time you're in their store at 401 S. Upper Street, and check out their huge selection of bikes, accessories, clothing, and more while you're there.  It's a gear nut's dream.  Really.  Ride on. 

USARA Adventure Racing National Championship Qualifier

The top four teams in the combined 3 and 4-person co-ed division will be invited to compete in the 2010 USARA National Championship race in Pennsylvania.  Be one of the first teams to qualify!  The top team going to Nationals will have $500 of their entry fee paid by the Fig and Nationals sponsor Zanfel, and will win a set of coveted Regional Champion jackets! 

Quick Facts:

When:

Saturday,

November 6, 2010

Where:

Red River Gorge

Slade, KY

How Long:

12 Glorious Hours

How Much:

$125 per racer

through 10.6.10

$150 per racer

after 10.6.10

Hurry - registration closes 10.30.10!!

*Non-USARA members will need to purchase an $8 single-day membership or $35 annual membership

What For:

Entry includes waterproof maps from MyTopo, insurance, professional ropes crew, USARA sanctioning and Regional Qualifier status, great door prizes from Pedal Power and other sponsors, post-race party with food, and long-sleeved race shirt (guaranteed only for entries received by 10.6.10).