The Daily Record
Wilderness Challenge Raises $12,000
By SHAUN SAVARESE
Of The Record Staff
Erwin’s sixth annual Wilderness Challenge raised $12,130 through sponsorship and participation in the June 4th triathlon. Expenses for the event totaled $4,073, and the Erwin Wilderness Challenge Committee will be presenting a $7,500 check to Pope Army Airfield Air Force Ball Committee.
“It was one of the best days, because everybody stayed,” said Erwin Mayor Patsy Carson, an ardent supporter of Pope Army Airfield and an honorary wing commander.
“I’m really, really pleased with the number,” she said. “To have 68 people come out … and so many came up and said, ‘This is awesome. You have a great venue, it’s See Wilderness Challenge, Page 3 Wilderness Challenge
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perfect.’” “We had enough security,” said Dunn Tourism Director Sharon Stevens.
“The T-shirts were the best ones that we have ever had, and a lot of people complimented on the Tshirts. I thought that was a great upgrade,” said Dunn Bleecker Automotive Group comptroller and committee member John Riley. “I was surprised at the number of people who came from surrounding areas. I saw some people who came from Midway and Spivey’s Corner and I thought that was great because that meant that our word was getting out,” he said.
“All in all I think it was successful,” Mayor Carson said.
Addressing Concerns, Discussing Solutions Mayor Carson said they need to work on the registration process because the volunteers were “bombarded.” The committee discussed the possibility of pre-registering contestants on the day prior, to reduce confusion at early the morning registration.
There were some issues with the timing of the race and it was determined that Tony Rouse was the actual third-place winner. Committee member Erin Hardy plans to present him with his bronze medal.
Another possible way to reduce registration confusion is the organization of kayaks by name, and through pre-registration.
Mr. Riley made mention of the problem raised by competitors bringing kayaks to the Erwin gazebo at time of registration instead of taking them directly to the “putin” location.
“I think that one of the biggest helps was having kayaks (available for those who did not have one) this year,” Mrs. Carson said.
The committee recommended that a deadline be set on when contestants can rent their kayaks.
Dunn Tourism Director Sharon Stevens plans to have a map next year, indicating where all water stations are located. Mayor Carson recommended the water stations be tented and include tables.
Mrs. Stevens also proposed a time limit on the bike portion of the triathlon. Mrs. Hardy recommended that if a limit is set, that documents be updated online and in print.
Mayor Carson presented the idea of a sponsored bag with the Wilderness Challenge logo and event’s web address on them.
The Erwin Wilderness Challenge is currently deciding on plans for future races and events.
