Think you have what it takes to earn YOUR wings and welcomed into the halls of the legendary dragon riders? Or will your name be read on the morrow's Death Roll?...
Welcome, Cadets...
To Wings & War: The Rider Trials, in an immersive adventure that takes you off the page and puts your courage, strength, balance, and determination to the test.
"Destiny offers a path; choice decides whether you walk it."
-Violet Sorrengail
Before you can face your fate at the Gauntlet, you'll first need to learn how to defend yourself.
Your training begins with a hands-on martial arts defense class led by experienced martial artists. You will learn practical defense techniques and will each be given tools designed to give you skills that extend well beyond the Rider Trials.
Upon completion, you will be tested to leave solid ground behind.
"Bravery is learning to carry fear without letting it carry you."
-Fenric Hale
Harness in and climb into the trees at "Tree to Tree Adventure Park", where you'll take on an aerial adventure featuring 60+ obstacles across six courses, including suspended bridges, balance challenges, ropes, ladders and Tarzan swings.
The courses become progressively more challenging; your balance will be tested; your nerve will be tested and somewhere along the way, you may seriously question your decision to volunteer for the Riders Quadrant. How far will you make it?
"To fly with a dragon is to accept that risk makes freedom meaningful."
-Arlo Harker
Surviving your training and facing the Gauntlet are only part of becoming a rider. You still must find yourself a dragon!
Dragons will be hidden throughout the area, waiting to be discovered. Keep your eyes open throughout your adventure . You never know where one may be hiding but choose wisely, as the dragon must also choose YOU; a dragon doesn't choose lightly, but when they do, it's forever.
"Shared burdens become lighter the more hands lift them."
-Nora Finch
No Cadet should report for training unprepared.
Every attendee will receive a Rider's Pack with a self-defense Kobo to take home. Light snacks and drinks will be provided.
This isn't your typical Bookish Event. This is your chance to step into the story. To train alongside other riders; test your courage high among the trees; search for your dragon; earn your wings and leave braver than you were before.
Welcome to Wings & War: The Rider Trials!
*Cosplay optional. Hair and lose objects must be secured during obstacle course. Photographer will be on site for free photos and videos of your adventure.*
*The martial arts self-defense class will be led by David Killian, Kevin Jarvis, Ken Boltz and Chris Neffendorf. Leading the training is David Killian, a highly knowledgeable martial artist and certified instructor through the World Thai Boxing Association, with training spanning multiple disciplines, including Muay Thai, Western Style Boxing, Lameco Eskrima and Lucay Lucay Kali / JKD. Chris, Kevin, and Ken all train under David's tutelage and will join him in guiding Cadets through their training.*
