Soaked in Adventure held its first secondary schools’ championship last Thursday, attracting students from across the Bay of Plenty.

About 100 competitors from seven schools lined up at a fog-shrouded start line at Sisam’s Farm in Tāneatua, ready to take on the challenge.

Adventure racing is a navigational sport that combines mountain biking, running or trekking, and a range of mystery activities.

Teams of four must use a map and clue sheet to navigate their way around the course while completing various challenges along the way.

Soaked in Adventure director Fiona Cederman has high hopes for the new secondary school series.

“Soaked in Adventure has been running for 10 years, but this is the first time we have hosted an event specifically focused on secondary schools.

“The courses are designed for students and cater to all levels of experience,” said Cederman.

Each team consists of four members and is suited to a wide range of abilities.

Newcomers can try their hand at adventure racing through the two-hour foot race or the three-hour course, while more experienced competitors can tackle the six-hour championship event.

The course design is flexible, requiring participants to walk or jog between 10 and 15 kilometres off-road and mountain bike between 15 and 25 kilometres on farm and forestry tracks.

Rotorua Lakes High School dominated the event, taking out the six-hour championship title.

Five Whakatāne teams competed – two from Whakatāne High School and three from Trident High School.

Whakatāne High School teacher Renske Forsyth was pleased with the event and her students’ efforts.

“We really enjoyed the day and, for some of our students, it was their first time competing. It was a great introduction to adventure racing,” said Forsyth.

Trident High School sports co-ordinator Stephanie Walker said it was a great day and a fantastic experience for their teams.

“Our year 9 and 10 boys’ team finished fourth in the three-hour race, while our mixed team won the same event.”

With a venue offering a diverse mix of farmland, forestry, and native bush, competitors faced plenty of challenges regardless of their experience level.

Following the success of the first round, organisers are hopeful the series will continue to grow.

“We are so grateful to Sisam and Sons for the use of their land, which provided the perfect terrain for the event.

“It was a great start to what I hope will become a permanent Soaked in Adventure series.

“ I also hope to bring more schools on board.

“Next year, I plan to include intermediate schools as well to help grow the sport,” said Cederman.