FAQ

What is the Mudder Nature Challenge?

The Mudder Nature Challenge is a trail and obstacle course race, designed for runners and bikers to have fun in the mud and enjoy the beauty of the Sacramento River. There are two divisions: running, which is a 5k course; or biking (cyclo-cross style) is 8 mile course.

Runners start at 9:00 am. Bikers start at 11:15 am.

This event is a fundraiser for River Partners, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the restoration and conservation of California's rivers and floodplains. To learn more about us, visit our website.

When is the Mudder Nature Challenge?

September 10, 2011 or 9/10/11

Where is the Mudder Nature Challenge located?

The event will take place on property owned by River Partners, called Willow Bend. It is normally not open for public use, except for this special event. However, our goal is to restore the site and turn it over to an agency to manage for public access in the future.

Willow Bend is in Colusa County, about a 45 minute drive southwest of Chico and a 60 minutes drive from Sacramento and Davis. Driving directions will be posted soon.

What time should I arrive?

Between 6:30 and 8: 44 am. The earlier the better, especially if you want to park your car on site.

Is there on-site parking?

Yes, however, see above. Arrive early, between 6:30 am and 8:45 am. Cars will not be allowed on site after 8:45 am in order to make way for racers. Cars will be allowed to exit the race area once all races are completed.

What do I get for doing the Mudder Nature Challenge?

Bragging Rights
Mudder Nature Challenge T-shirt
BBQ Lunch
Goody bag courtesy of Colusa Casino
Race bib
Post race celebration at Willow Bend beach, on the Sacramento River
Opportunity to enjoy offerings from Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
A day to let loose with friends and get dirty

What do I need to bring?

Your Bib and any wrist bands and or tickets included in your registration packet
Your Photo ID
Change of clothes
Towel
Garbage bag for your muddy running clothes and shoes
Folding chair or blankets to sit on
Guts
Water to stay hydrated

Will there be food and beverages available?

Yes. There will be food and drinks available for purchase from the BBQ booth run by the Colusa High School Athletic Foundation.

If you are a registered participant, lunch is included with registration.

Water aid stations will be provided by Mt. Shasta Spring water.

What should I wear?

You'll be covered with mud when you finish. So we recommend you wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. We highly recommend good running shoes too.

Feel free to take a dunk in the river after the race!

Can I wear a costume?

YES! Prizes will be awarded for the best costume.

Is the Mudder Nature Challenge safe?

There are certainly risks involved in a mud run, but we take every precaution possible to get you to the finish line safely. There will be first responders on site in case of an emergency. You enter the Mudder Nature Challenge at your own risk. Signed and dated copies of the "Rules and Regulations" and "Waiver & Release of Liability" must be completed before anyone is allowed to participate or watch the event.

Can we compete in teams?

Yes! Teams of three or more individuals are welcomed to register.

Teams are composed of all bikers or all runners.

The largest three teams to register by August 31 will have reserved VIP parking at the event!

What if it rains?

Perfect! More mud.

Are spectators welcome?

Yes! Spectators are welcomed to hang-out on the beach or watch the race. Along with a great vantage point of race starts and finishes, there will be several obstacle viewing stations at key points in the race. NEW: We are not charging a fee for spectators, however, you may purchase advance lunch tickets through our registration page.

Can I bring my dog?

We are sorry, no. No dogs are allowed on the property.

How to do I pick up my race packet?

On Thursday, September 8, packet pick-up is at NORCAL Strength and Conditioning, 629 Entler Ave #17, Chico, CA 95928. Hours are 7 am – 11 am; 5 pm – 7pm.
On Friday, September 9, packet pick-up is at Colusa Casino's Bingo Room (north side of the casino), 3770 Hwy 45, Colusa, CA 95932. Hours are 2 pm – 7 pm.
On Saturday, September 10, packets may be picked up before the Mudder Nature Challenge. However, we highly recommend the early pick up to avoid the crowds at check in.
Please bring your photo id to packet pick-up

Can I pick up my friend's packet?

Yes, but you will need the following items:

A copy of your friend's photo ID
A signed letter from your friend stating that you are allowed to pick up their packet.

Will you ship me my race packet?

Race Packets must be picked up either September 8 in Chico or September 9 in Colusa or onsite at check-in. We will not ship packets to participants.

Is there on-site registration?

We expect this event to sell out. However, if there are spaces, we will have registration on the day of the event and at the early packet pick-up locations. Check website and facebook page for updates.

How is the event timed?

We are using Chip timing for the Mudder Nature Challenge. Timing chip distribution will begin at 7am on event day. All racers must present their bib at the timing booth to receive their chip. If we have on-site registration, new registrants must first acquire their bib at the registration table, then move to the timing table.

Can I get a refund? Can I transfer my Registration?

Sorry, no refunds under any circumstances; Registrations are non-transferable.

I think my company would be a great Sponsor for the Mudder Nature Challenge. How do I make this happen?

Please contact us and we would be glad to discuss sponsorship opportunities. jpokrandt@riverpartners.org or (530) 894-5401 x 222.

Still have more questions? Feel free to email us at muddernatureinfo@riverpartners.org.