There will be acres of obstacle race fun to conquer when the Freak’n Farmer returns to Covert Farms on Sept. 19.
Presented by Penticton Home Hardware and coordinated by Hoodoo Adventures and Covert Farms, the day-long, family-friendly event will feature five-kilometre, 10-km and 20-km obstacle course races, with two events geared toward the little ones — the three km Little Freak’n Farmer (for kids ages six to 12 years) and the 1.5-km Mini Freak’n Farmer (for kids ages three to six years).
For more than 50 years the Covert family has been farming the 650 acres of Covert Farms in the rugged mountains north of Oliver. Inspired by history, an adventure obstacle race was born — an event that speaks to the many arduous tasks that farm hands had to perform in the dry heat of Canada’s only desert region.
“The Freak’n Farmer is challenging and exciting, but just as important, the course and obstacles story-tell our farming heritage and sustainable farming practices,” said Gene Covert, organic farmer/winemaker at Covert Farms.
All obstacles for the Freak’n Farmer will be “covert” until the day of the event. The five-km course will cover 10 obstacles, the 10 km with 18 obstacles, and the 20 km with 23 obstacles. Registration costs to participate in the obstacle races vary based on course and age group.
After working up an appetite from the obstacle races, participants can indulge in a post-race, farm-to-table barbecue lunch, showcasing delicious local, organic fare. Wine tastings will be provided by the Oliver Osoyoos Winery Association. Local beer tastings will also be offered and live music will entertain the crowd.
Spectators are welcome to come and watch the action for a minimum donation of $5, with partial proceeds going to support the South Okanagan Children’s Charity. A $25 spectator fee includes lunch, a Freak’n Farmer T-shirt and hop-on/hop-off farm transportation throughout the event.
“This community-driven event is a definite highlight and favourite for locals. The exceptional course also attracts participants from across B.C. and other parts of Canada,” said Hoodoo Adventures’ Lyndie Hill, co-coordinator of the Freak’n Farmer. “Big thanks to our sponsors ... through their support we ensure a fun and rewarding time for all participants — be it individuals, families or groups of friends.”