The Coastal Challenge Opens Registration for Jan 27 - Feb 2
The Coastal Challenge, the World's Expedition Run, has officially opened registration for its fourth running, which is scheduled for January 27 to February 2, 2008. The event returns to the wild northwestern region of Costa Rica with a renewed emphasis on adventure and team running. Registration will be capped this year at 100 runners.

"This coming year will have more trails and it will be harder than ever," said Course Designer Rodrigo Carazo. "People who will enjoy this course are the people who look to go beyond their limits and explore something new -- within the world and within themselves."

The race, called the Route of Fire as much for the volcanic region from which it starts as the heated competition, will once again follow a northwestern route from Costa Rica's volcanic region near Arenal Volcano to the Pacific Ocean at Bahia Salinas. The event continues to offer four unique and exciting categories of participation:

- Team Expedition Run: runners are encouraged to sign up in teams of three to six, with discounts provided to teams of four or more.

- Solo Expedition Run: the full 200+ kilometer Expedition Run.

- Solo Adventure Run: a shortened, yet extremely challenging 125 kilometer route.

- Guest Adventure Tours: daily adventure tours like river rafting, nature hikes and more available to guests of the runners.

As a result of the increase in off-road running and emphasis on "adventure," competitors will be forced to be more self-sufficient -- carrying predetermined and race regulated amounts of water and depending less on aid stations along the course. Runners have been required to carry water in the past, but new rules could include additional mandatory gear and will be strictly enforced for the runners' own safety. Less experienced runners are also encouraged to sign up with a team or identify a running "buddy" at race registration.