In 2007 Checkpoint Zero produced the first edition of it's namesake event, the Checkpoint Zero Adventure Race, in Helen, GA. Nearly 200 racers attended, eager to experience a race with ties to the exceedingly popular North Georgia Adventure Race that came before it. Competition among the more veteran racers gunning for a piece of the $6000 prize purse was fierce. For the rest of the field the race was all about finishing.

Although the course was challenging...in terms of distance, elevation change and navigation...rules allowing teams to skip checkpoints and be ranked officially as long as they reach the Finish in under 30 hours meant that a majority of less experienced teams were able to complete the race which was lauded as a smashing success.

Building on the momentum out of that first race, Checkpoint Zero set out to create an all new course in 2008 that would accomplish the same goal...challenge the top teams without excluding those racing just to finish.

Despite mother nature's protests, an even larger field of just over 200 racers set out by boat from the Georgia State Fairgrounds in Hiawassee under threatening skies.

The dark clouds proved to be more than just an ominous portent...they brought snow, wind and rain that covered the course in slush and ice and chilled racers, support crews and staff members to the bone.

A large percentage of the field dropped out after dark on Saturday night as the temperatures plummeted. Of the teams that continued racing despite the harsh conditions just one, Eastern Mountain Sports, managed to clear the entire course and reach the finish by 2:00 PM on Sunday to claim first place.

The 46 other teams that finished officially were able to do so by strategically skipping checkpoints. Once again conscientious course design delivered an experience that tops teams called "gut wrenching" while others described their race as "wicked awesome".

It's 2009 and it's nearly time for another Checkpoint Zero Adventure Race. This year we're heading to Dahlonega, GA for yet another new course designed by Tony Berwald and staffed by team Checkpoint Zero/Inov-8.

The formula is the same. We're combining intelligent course design, an experienced staff and race rules that cater to all levels of racer to create an exceptional experience for all who attend.

Registration is open through January 31st.

For more information visit the official race website at http://www.checkpointzero.com/czar.