Steeped in both tradition and a growing focus on locality, Norman has a certain community charm that serves up a unique experience for residents and visitors alike. With expanding art, music and food scenes, combined with a long, Oklahoma-rich history of higher education, the city has served as a focal point in the state for decades.
Over the years, various locations in Norman have become notable landmarks for the community. In an effort to highlight these landmarks and city as a whole, Norman Parks and Recreation is hosting its first annual Norman Quest Adventure Race.
Quest Adventure Races have taken place in cities across the United States, but this is the first of its kind in the area. The Quest Adventure Race is designed for people of all ages, from Norman and the surrounding communities, and is aimed at being fun, educational and challenging, all while incorporating the Norman landscape.
The Norman Quest Adventure Race will take place on Saturday, April 16 at 10 a.m. Teams will compete to solve a series of clues, which will lead them to locations around Norman and on the University of Oklahoma campus. At each location, the team must complete a task and take a picture in front of the landmark or structure.
Throughout the race, teams can travel by foot, bicycle, public transportation or a combination. Teams are also encouraged to utilize smart phones, the local library or even strangers around town. The entirety of the race covers approximately 15 miles in the Norman area. By limiting the modes of transportation and suggesting the use of the local library and the knowledge of strangers, the Norman Quest Adventure Race adds another level of discovery and awareness for the Norman community.
The start and finish for the race is at Andrews Park, located at 201 W. Daws. Teams have four hours to complete the race course and cross the finish line. First, second and third place prizes will be awarded at the end of the race. Each participant of the first place team will receive a $100 Visa Gift Card. The second place team will each receive a $75 Visa Gift Card, and the third place team will receive a $50 Visa Gift Card.
Although registration for the race ends on April 8, there are other ways to support the event and subsequently, the Norman community. Businesses and individuals can become sponsors of the event and provide refreshments and door prize donations. Norman locals can also show support by cheering on the race participants, joining the teams at the finish line in Andrews Park or lending a piece of knowledge to a team you encounter around town. Young and old can join in on the quest and adventure and celebrate the one-of-a-kind spirit of Norman.
For more information on the run or Norman Parks and Recreation, visit www.normanfun.com or call (405) 366-5470.