Adventure Racing gear

You are not only going to need a compass, you are going to have to learn how to use a protractor and navigate by a topographic map.  Depending on  what you want to spend you can get one that integrates this, or you can get the compass and protractor seperately.  If I were you I would find a local backpacking shop (think Eastern Mountain Sports) and seek out a knowledgeable salesperson.  As for brands, I've always been partial to Suunto. 

Yeah, I know about the maps (didn't know about the protractor) and I've lined someone up to give me field lessons. Good advice about the backpacking shop- I think I'll pop into Patagonia this weekend. Oh, would be airbase BX carry compasses?

Possibly, though the Air Force doesn't like to spend much time away from air conditioning and cable (just ask Jen), so I wouldn't get my hopes up.  If you can find someone to teach you how to use a military M2 (compass), you might be able to get a good deal on one at an Army/Navy store.  They can take a beating, so depending on how abusive your races will be you might want to go that way.  

They are very durable.  However- there are other commercial ones I would pick first (if durability insn't your primary concern) based on ease of use/functionality.  Best to check with someone who has some experience doing what you are looking to do and see what he/she says.

He said I should get "a compass." My guess is his experience is only with the M2 (former Marine). I'll at least pop into the backpacking store to have a look, and the Army/Navy store. Oh yay,  shopping!

You can also check to see if there are any orienteering clubs in your area. There's a few here in Northern CA and that is where I learned how to use a compass.

Aren't those Adventure Races usually teams?  You could get a navigating wiz on your team.  Tom and I were actually talking about doing one of these, it was in Florida Sports mag or something.  they sound like a lot of good, dirty fun! 

Many moons ago I did some orienteering (as we use to call adventure racing). The Marine Corps team I was on used two types of compass. One was Silva and the other was the standard Marine issue lensetic compass. That's the easy part. Now growing your thumbnail long and notching it to match the scale of your topo map, well that' a different story.

renee! i want to do this too! (only i'm waiting until next season when i can leave my toddler with a sitter while i go practice my mountain bike skills...which are very rusty). anyway, i attended a clinic at rei on women in adventure racing. it was very informative. most races require a co-ed team and there is a shortage of women. so, many teams are looking for women who are into racing, even at the beginner level, and will pay your way. the women who gave the clinic finished eco-challenge after the one female team mate on a registered team fell ill. she was able to go, so off she went. anyway, i would look into local orienteering clubs. the group here has clinics and course challenges set up about once a month, as well as some permanent course on which to practice. i would check around and see if there are any groups around and they may have some advice.

here you go: http://www.floridaorienteering.org

X factor fever.... I heard all terrain races are the fastest growing market. I want to do it but I am a clutz.... Can I take my GPS and cellphone? LOL LOL LOL I get lost going to the Mall...
The guy I am dating is dying to get me into mountain bikes... I keep telling him I do not need a mountain bike. I've spent enough in my road bike already!
Have you heard of any races in FL? I looked at the Xterra series but did not see anything in Florida...

Of course the Air Farce knows how to use a compass......how do you think they get around the golf course??

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