Q: What is The Bravado Challenge?
A: It is a sprint triathlon event consisting of a 3.5 mile run or hike, an 8 mile bike ride, and a 4 mile canoe or kayak paddle. It is a great event for a great cause. All proceeds go to the LSS Birth to 3 Program, which is a program for children ages from birth three years with developmental delays or disabilities. It starts at Fox River Park – W264 S4500 River Rd, Waukesha, WI 53189. Check out the Race Day Instructions for more details on logistics.
Q: When is it? Where is it?
A: Saturday, May 16th. It starts at Fox River Park – W264 S4500 River Rd, Waukesha, WI 53189. Check out the Race Day Instructions for more details on logistics.
Q: Are canoes or kayaks supplied?
A: No. You may rent a canoe (teams) or kayak (solo). This rental process can be done during the registration. You may also supply your own canoe/kayak. Please select boat rental during online registration. Please contact us with additional questions!
Q: Are PFDs (Personal Floating Device/Lifevest) Included?
A: PFDs are included in the canoe/kayak renta. If you provide your own kayak, you must supply your own PFD.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Registration prices can be found at our Registration page. In addition to that, you will need to have a DNR state trail pass ($4, for the bike. You can order one during registration), and it will cost $4 to park your car at Fox River Park. If you will be needing to rent a canoe/kayak, it will be an additional $45 for the rental.
Q: How long does it take to complete the race?
A: The challenge ranges from 1.5 to 3.5 hours. Remember many participants do the event at a leisurely non-competitive pace. See Race Results page.
Q: Where does the money go?
A: All the money collected from racers goes directly to the Birth-to-Three program from LSS.
Q: What time can I drop off equipment the morning of the race?
A: All the checkpoints will open at 6:30 am.
Q: Is the course for road or mountain bikes?
A: The biking section is very well paved so it’s your call.
Q: What is the terrain like for the run?
A: The run is all off road and very rough at times.
Q: What if it rains on race day?
A: You will get wet.
Q: Do I have to be a hardcore athlete to participate, or how competitive is the race?
A: The majority of racers will go at a leisurely pace. About 10% who will go hard and compete for the top places.
Q: How long does the race take?
A: 1.5 to 3.5 hours. See the previous years’ Race Results.
Q: Is there a time limit to complete the course?
A: There is no time limit. Take as much as you need.
Q: Can I use a raft instead or a canoe or kayak?
A: Yes
Q: Who benefits from the proceeds and how?
A: LSS runs a program called Birth-to-Three. All proceeds will be passed along to them.
Q: Do I have to have a partner?
A: No. Do it solo, with a partner, or with multiple partners.
Q: What does my donation include?
A: Race entry, Dri-fit T-shirt, gift bag, great challenge on a great course, post-race party, food and drinks, great people like you, and knowledge that you are helping a quality organization.
Q: When is the entry deadline?
A: See Registration page on this website. Same day registration is not available.
Q: What will I need the day of the race?
A: Shoes, Bike, tire pump, patch kit, boat, life vest (included with canoe/kayak rental), and water. You may also want to consider bringing sunscreen, bug spray, and dry clothes for the finish line. See Race Day Instructions page.
Q: Can I leave gear at the run/bike transition?
A: Absolutely! We do our best to maintain a clean location for our hosts at 18 West, so please leave your gear (preferably in a bag) for our volunteers to place in a secure location. We will ensure that all gear (shoes, bags, etc.) is brought to the finish line to meet you!
Q: Can I leave gear at the bike/canoe transition?
A: Absolutely! Our volunteer staff will be watching this transition area to ensure your gear is safe. After the race, just go pick up your gear, and then head back to the post-race celebration — it’s all part of the Bravado experience! If anything is left at this transition area, we will ensure it is safely brought to Fox River Park; just email or call us with what you forgot to pick up, and we will ensure it gets back to you.
Q: What does the course look like?
A: See the Map below. First 3.5 Mile Run starts at Lapham Peak State Park, then 8 Mile Bike Ride on the Drumlin Trail, and 4mile kayak/canoe paddle on Fox River to the Finish Line.