by Lisa McPeek
The Pointless Pursuit, “a quirky, action-packed, urban adventure” is set to run throughout Columbus Sept. 13. The perfect event for young, old and in-between, it entails teams of two participating in a series of challenges throughout a 5-mile stretch from German Village to The Ohio State University campus.
Although the challenges are being kept secret until the day of the event, participants can liken the experience to that of the TV show The Amazing Race and expect a day of problem solving and fun — just because. Sponsored by Doggie Daycare Center and Buffalo Wild Wings and hosted by the Warren Agency, the Pointless Pursuit is in its first year.
The idea came to fruition when Kristen Warren, founder of the Warren Agency and an avid fan of The Amazing Race, learned that other cities around the country were participating in competitions called "Urban Adventure Races." When she realized these events were not hosted anywhere in Ohio or its border states, Warren utilized her background in organizing community events and decided to bring the competition to Columbus.
“The Pointless Pursuit is a community-wide event that adds to the reasons why Columbus is a great place to live,” says Warren. “Along with showcasing local businesses, it develops community pride.”
Participants will work in teams of two to solve clues throughout downtown, in the Arena District, Short North, German Village and the OSU area. The race is designed to award strategy, creativity and resourcefulness over physical endurance. Contestants may walk, run or use public transportation and can decide what order to complete their challenges, but must finish all of them before the 5 p.m. deadline to be considered for prizes.
The race will start with a quiz that participants must pass to receive their Pointless Pursuit passport. The passport includes all of the clues for the race and must be stamped by staff members at the site of each challenge as they are completed.
Pairs placing 1st, 2nd and 3rd will receive cash prizes, a Buffalo Wild Wings gift card, a trophy and free entry into next summer’s race. Race-goers are encouraged to wear costumes, as a separate prize will be awarded to the participant with the best outfit.
Through Aug. 31, the early registration price for the event is $38 per person. From Sept. 1-12, tickets are $45 per person, and will be $50 per person on the day of the race.
The Pointless Pursuit will be held Sept. 13, with registration beginning at 11 a.m. and the race starting at noon. For more information, visit www.pointlesspursuit.com.