Wilderness Challenge set for October Published July 18, 2003 NORFOLK, Va. (AFPN) -- The Mid-Atlantic Region Morale, Welfare and Recreation Department is conducting the third annual “Wilderness Challenge” outdoor extreme-sports match Oct. 2 to 4 in Fayetteville, W.V.The annual event is set to take place with the Appalachian Mountains and the Gauley River as the backdrop for more than 300 servicemembers competing for bragging rights as the best extreme athletes among the nation’s services. An Air Force team from Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark., Team “Trash Haulers,” took third place in the last event.For two days, participants will compete in seven events including an 8-km run through mountainous terrain, a 14-mile forced hike and a 10-mile mountain bike race. Competitors will also test their physical endurance with a half-mile swim, a 13-mile whitewater raft race and a seven-mile combined raft, canoe and kayak race. Additionally, participants will compete in a war game paintball competition. The Wilderness Challenge is open to all branches of the active-duty military including National Guard and Reserve members currently on active duty for more than 90 days. Each team will consist of four active-duty military members including at least one female. Registration for this year’s event is under way. For registration information, call Michael L. Bond at (757) 887-7256 or visit www.wildernesschallenge.net to find more information on this year’s event.