Teams will be put to the test with physical and mental challenges throughout the city as part of the third annual Amazing Race.
The June 24 event organized by the Columbus Young Professionals organization will feature up to 40 teams made up of two individuals each who will participate in 10 challenges. The format is similar to the “Amazing Race” television show, said Liz Worthington, director of marketing and programs for the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce and chamber liaison for CYP.
More than $1,000 in prizes will be given away to participants during the event, with proceeds going to help Columbus Young Professionals maintain programming for its members.
The Amazing Race got its start in 2015 as Columbus area interns were invited to explore the city through a series of clues and challenges. The hope was that the interns would consider Columbus as a place to live and work after college, Worthington said.
Participation in the event, which has grown in participation levels, later was opened to all individuals 18 and older.
This year’s teams will be given clues at each designated stop that will continue to lead them to the final location.
“It does encompass mind brain challenges with physical challenges,” Worthington said.
Challenges will vary from one site to the next, with participants on foot this year as they make their way around the city, said Jordan Winkler, chairman of the Amazing Race event.
“We try to really involve the challenge site,” he said.
Worthington said it is fun to see the competitive nature between teams and watching team members interact with one another in order to reach their final destination.
The Amazing Race is an opportunity for participants and volunteers to establish relationships with one another in a fun and exciting atmosphere, Winkler said.
People who participate will be invited to an after-party at the BBQ Blues & Brews festival in downtown Columbus, where the winners will be announced at 5:30 p.m., Worthington said.
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What: The Amazing Race
When: June 24 with check-in at 9 a.m. and the event beginning at 10 a.m. at Central Middle School
Where: Various sites around Columbus
Cost: $40 per team (two individuals per team); registration is encouraged in advance
Information: Visit columbusyp.org
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