Iron Eagle Paddle and Run at Eagle Creek Park, July 26

Eagle Creek Park. AroundIndy.com staff photo, (c) 2010, all rights reserved.

By Sara Holtz
On behalf of the Eagle Creek Park Foundation
http://eaglecreekpark.org/

For the second consecutive year, the Eagle Creek Park Foundation is hosting a 14k adventure race, the Iron Eagle Paddle & Run, set for Saturday, July 26, 2014, at Eagle Creek Park’s beach, on Indianapolis’ northwest side.

The race has been adopted as the nonprofit’s primary fundraiser in which all proceeds benefit the Foundation’s mission to promote, preserve, protect, and enhance Eagle Creek Park through improvements, trail restoration projects and environmental education programs.

Athletes of all ages can explore one of the nation’s 10th largest city-owned parks via land and water, alternating between trail runs, and a canoe or kayak leg.

“The remote setting within the city couldn’t be more perfect for a race. Ultimately we wanted to intertwine a dual-sport challenge while showcasing the park’s assets, all while supporting a great cause,” said Erich Muensterman, Iron Eagle race chairman and Foundation board member. “Racers can work up a solid sweat, cool off on the water, and of course, have fun among family and friends!”

The new race format mimics a Figure 8, and will use the beach as a central hub, offering the added benefit of a spectator area to watch the race, Muensterman said.

It will start with a 2.5-mile trail run from the beach to the boats, a 1.5-mile paddle, and 3.5-mile trail run back around to the beach.

Participants can bring their own kayaks or canoes (with life jackets and paddles), and have the option to enter as an individual or 2-person team, which can be co-ed.

Cost is $50 before June 1, $60 before July 15, and $70 after July 15. Racers are guaranteed a performance T-shirt if registered by June 20.

A limited number of boats are available for rental on EagleCreekPark.org before July 23 in addition to the entry fee —$25 for single kayaks, and $35 for double kayaks and canoes.

Following the race, the Foundation will host an after party at the park’s Earth Discovery Center with food, music and awards.

Boat drop-off is at 7 a.m. at the beach; check-in is 8 a.m., and the race starts at 9 a.m.

The Foundation is currently raising funds to make the Coffer Dam Trail ADA accessible, install surveillance cameras at the entrance gates and parking lots, as well as web cameras at the nature centers.

With the help of membership and contributions over the past 13 years, the Foundation has been able to invest nearly $3 million into the park by funding the following: construction of the Earth Discovery Center, Edesses & Fitness trails, and backyard habitat; renovation of the Ornithology Center; wetlands restoration and much more.

To register, log on EagleCreekPark.org, or call Planet Adventure at 317-324-8299.

Editor’a Acknowledgement: BPS Marketing, Inc.