1995 X-Games 1 Rhode Island 1996 Eco-Challenge British Columbia 1997 Eco-Challenge Australia | 1996 X-Games 2 Rhode Island 1997 X-Games 3 San Diego 1998 Raid Gauloises Ecuador | |
Ian Adamson (born August 29, 1964) is a former competitive adventure racer, television professional and president of the International Obstacle Racing Federation.
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Early life and education
Adamson was born in Sydney and attained a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sydney and a Master of Science in Sports medicine from Chapman University, Orange, CA.
Early competition
Adamson started competing in middle distance cycling, running, cross country and swimming at school. While at university he focused on canoe and kayak, winning the Australian Universities Canoe Championship in C2 Wild Water in 1988, and later set two Guinness World Records for the longest distance paddled in 24 hours (1997, 2004.)
Career
Adamson is an eleven-time world champion adventure racer, featured on television shows including the Eco-Challenge, Primal Quest, Raid Gauloises, Men's Journal Adventure Team and X-Games that aired on Outdoor Life Network, ESPN, Discovery Channel, USA Network and MTV from 1995 - 2006. He was a founding member of Team Nike ACG/Balance Bar
Professional life
Adamson worked at Newton Running Company from 2007 to 2014 as Director of Product Development, and later Director of Medical & Education and previously in an advisory capacity as a sponsored athlete for GU, Giant Bikes, Nike (2002-2007.) He is currently president of the International Obstacle Racing Federation, the world governing body for Obstacle Course Racing and is working toward achieving international recognition for the sport.
Adamson is also a writer, having authored Runner's World Guide to Adventure Racing and as a contributor to Adventure Racing the Ultimate Guide, the Complete Guide to Adventure Racing, The Thrill of Victory, The Agony of my Feet, print interviews, appearances and articles.
Personal life
Adamson is married to television host Leah Garcia and splits time between Boulder, CO and San Luis Obispo, CA.