Raid Pulse’s 50-kilometre course explores a storied outdoor playground, with challenging mountain biking paths, gorgeous lakes and kilometres of forest trails. The trekking/bushwalking and paddling legs share some 15 kilometres, while mountain biking takes up the remaining 35. Participants can compete as individuals (solo paddlers must use a kayak; teams of two must use a canoe), two-member female and male teams or two-member co-ed teams. An online mandatory gear list serves as a word of warning: Surprise gear checks during the race carry 15-minute penalties for non-compliance.

Note that on the same day, a two-hour, two-discipline (no paddling) 15-kilometre rogaine-style event known as Le P’tit Raid Pulse is open to competitors from 7 to 77 years of age of all levels of experience. A little taste of what’s possible next year?

Camping at race headquarters is an option, as are nearby cottage and condo rentals. Topographic maps, passports, race support and race jerseys and bike plates are all provided, and prize medals will be awarded at a celebratory meal and ceremony at the end of a challenging day. But the biggest takeaway is that hard-charging adventure racers keep events like Raid Pulse on the calendar. Long may they thrive.

For more information, visit raidpulse.com