Rick Shone - Race Director

Manitoba is a diverse and exciting province! The Swamp Donkey team is excited to welcome new and experienced racers alike. I love adventure racing because it's a multi-sport event that not only challenges yourself but steers you off the beaten path to explore terrain you may never otherwise get to see. The passion I have for outdoor sports of all sorts is something I love to encourage others to experience. The Swamp Donkey events have allowed me to challenge people and watch the thrill and excitement experienced when personal boundaries are pushed in ways you may never have known. Our team is looking forward to sharing and promoting Manitoban pride through all our events with you for years to come!

Contact Rick

John Ford - Race Director

Organizing the Swamp Donkey events have been the highlight of the past six years and working to create these successful events are an eye opener which involves a workload that most racers don't realize. Adventure Racing is in my blood and I love to impart my enthusiasm with others. Formerly a Personal Trainer (NSCA -CPT) with over 20 years of combined personal and professional bodybuilding and sport conditioning experience, I can offer advice and tips for up and coming racers.

My adventurous spirit and 110% effort helps drive my passion to succeed and share this with those around me. I am dedicated to keeping the excitement alive for years to come in Manitoba and all the while guiding others in their personal journey towards fitness and an active lifestyle.

Contact John

Jan Cmela - Event Coordinator and Social Media

I'm inspired by extremes in every way. I've been known to jump out of planes, climb ice walls, and race down ziplines.

But my real passions are Biking, Adventure Racing, Snowboarding & Fitness. I've got a tendency to push people into doing what I love with the thought that they'll love it too if they just try it. I know how I feel when I master a race, a mountain, or get the nod from my trainer that I'm on the right track so I have the urge to bring that feeling to others.

Being part of this team allows me to share what I love, and bring more people into the sport, especially those that think they can't do it. I'm involved in various areas from social media to bringing the adventures to the corporate sector in conjunction with my own company that offers team building corporate events.

My best advice for anyone wanting to get into this sport who isn't sure they can do it, shoot me an email, and I'll give you the reasons why you CAN do it.

Contact Jan

Kurt Lehmann - Safety and EMS Director

I became involved with Swamp Donkey AR because I enjoy moving through the back country focused on the intent of growing and developing as an athlete and person. By being part of this organization it has given me the chance to share the moment and feeling of being 'in the element' with others. Pushing oneself to the limit and just a bit farther gives a sense of satisfaction that cannot be attained in everyday living. By being part of an enthusiastic race crew that shares this passion, I hope to put a smile on everyone's face at the end of the day

I am a Primary Care Paramedic for Winnipeg Emergency Medical Services and Interlake Regional Health Authority. I hold all certificates related to EMS as well as CSPS ski patrol, former Wilderness First Aid Instructor, and had begun ground search and rescue training prior to returning home from BC to live in Winnipeg again in 2008. I have raced Minaki Quest twice (3rd place both times), Eco-Adventure twice (placed top 300 I think! I hope!), Riding Mountain Tri, Manitoba half marathon and WPS half marathon.

Contact Kurt

Liz Roffey - Registration Coordinator

Heading up our Registration Coordination, Liz not only brings a ton of outdoor marketing experience and organizing but she's a load of ''fun'' too. Starting with the crew as a volunteer she's "worn many hats" over the years (sponsorship, marketing, finish line builder, reality checker, bff) but took the registration reigns at all the Swamp Donkey events because she knows what it takes for a successful event.

Karen Mott - Volunteer Director

I am fairly new to the Swamp Donkey family and am very excited and honored to be included. I have worked in the events industry for many years and definitely know the importance of volunteers and committed participants to make an event a success for everyone involved - no matter at what level. Having worked with Swamp Donkey, Ice Donkey and The Pain In The ASSiniboine races was a highlight the past 3 years.

The great outdoors, a sense of adventure, the spirit of the race and a quest for unique fun and challenges - definitely the best that life can offer. Enjoy!

Contact Karen

Barry Whitford - Equipment Director

I've been involved with the Swamp Donkey since its inception as a volunteer. I love watching the teams push themselves to their limits and seeing the sense of joy and accomplishment of the newer teams to this sport. I have always had a love of the outdoors and all it has to offer. Although competition is no longer a passion for me, being able to provide a venue such as this, is also a great challenge. Being part of a great team and planning a great race is a ton of fun.

I am semi-retired from a 30 year career at Xerox and have worked part-time at Wilderness Supply for the past few years. I am a level 2 climbing instructor for the Alpine Club of Canada and continue to pursue my passion for rock, mountain and ice climbing.

Blake Anderson - Event Logistics

For the last five years I have watched and admired the Swamp Donkey race crew bring together the most amazing athletes, adventurers and racers for a race series which culminates with the spectacular weekend experience known as Swamp Donkey Adventurer Race. And now I get to work with them?! Are you kidding me, this is sooo cool! I am super excited to be a part of the team this year, and I hope to help the races exceed all expectations.

I have been hanging around the local adventured racing / distance running scene for a number of years now as both a participant and volunteer. Between that and my career organizing complex construction projects, I have learned that the only thing that can limit you is yourself. I have an crazy thirst for adventure and enthusiasm which I will share it with everyone I meet! I am looking forward to
working with all the racers , organizers, volunteers and the sponsors.

Contact Blake

Alex Man - Course Designer

The official course designer for The Swamp Donkey Adventure Races... Alex Man has returned! Just like Justin Bieber is to pop music... Alex Man is to adventure racing and If you've met Alex, you know he epitomizes this great sport. In the bush he stands out because you can see his ear to ear smile km's away!

If anyone knows what makes a great adventure race course "the Man" has the experience to back it up! From Mark Burnett's Eco Challenge, Canadian races Raid the North and Full Moon, to the U.S. Primal Quest, Alex brings years of experience as a racer. With a motto of "Race hard... Train harder..." this year's Swamp Donkey events will not disappoint!

Kelly Morton - Race Photography

Kelly Morton Photography