Photo Credit: Highland Parks & Recreation / City of Highland
Another weekend, another 5K, 10K, bike ride, hike, half-triathlon, marathon, etc. At least this is the mindset I had before watching the Eco-Challenge expedition race in the 1990s. I was completely mesmerized by this race that had teams competing 24 hours a day over a rugged 300-mile course in events that included anything from horseback riding and mountain biking to scuba diving and kayaking. I was particularly intrigued by how strenuous completing such a task would be. In 2000, I heard the word Goomna, which is a Nepalese word that means to wander, roam, or explore. It was this intoxicating combination that inspired me to begin the Goomna Adventure Race in 2001.
Due to limited resources and the lack of knowledge in conducting a multi-disciplined race, the tradition began with seven co-ed teams of three people that were pretty much begged to try this new race. Since then, the Goomna has grown into a bit of a cult following in the area because it gives seasoned athletes a break from traditional races. Course obstacles include biking, running/trekking, canoeing and orienteering, along with a few surprises each year.
With a tagline of “go find your own race,” the purpose is to make teams work together to plot a course from one checkpoint to the next using the aforementioned disciplines along the 45- to 55-mile course. Teams reach checkpoints by using compass bearings to plot on a topographic map with a compass and/or are given certain checkpoints before the race. Because the community of Highland, Ill., is in a rural agricultural setting, the terrain is not always the most exciting. However, this does not prevent a challenging venue from being put together.