Since the beginning, the sport has been in the throes of constantly defining and redefining itself. It comes in many permutations: short course, one-day, three-day, sprints, expedition length, stage races, supported and unsupported. And that is the good news. There is room for everyone. Can't get into the Eco-Challenge? Do the Beast of the East, Raid Gauloises, or Elf Authentic Adventure. Not enough time or sponsorship money to fly to New Zealand for the Discovery Channel Adventure Race, formerly Southern Traverse? Okay, try the Endorphin Fix or the Fogdog.

Why does adventure racing need to be ordered and trimmed like an English garden?

Those in favor of more organization say having a designated "Olympic" distance and course will translate to more exposure (TV) and thereby an easier sell to potential sponsors and advertisers. Maybe. But at what cost?

The soul of the sport, perhaps.