In consideration of being allowed to participate in the Ocelot Gravel Race (the “Event”), I, the undersigned participant (or parent/legal guardian if the participant is under 18), agree as follows:
RELEASE AND WAIVER
I release, waive, and forever discharge the Event Director, X-Pedition Scholars Inc., Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, their respective officers, employees, agents, volunteers, sponsors, contractors, and the registration platform (RunSignup/BikeSignup), from any and all claims, demands, liabilities, or causes of action arising out of my participation in the Event, including claims based on ordinary negligence. This release is binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns.
ASSUMPTION OF RISK
I understand that gravel and mixed-surface cycling is an inherently dangerous activity. I knowingly assume all risks, known and unknown, including but not limited to falls, collisions with other participants or vehicles, equipment failure, wildlife encounters, route hazards, uneven or loose caliche and gravel surfaces, heat, wind, sudden weather changes, and the negligence of others. I attest that I am medically fit to participate and that my bicycle is in sound mechanical condition.
HELMET AND EQUIPMENT
I agree to wear a properly fitted and fastened CPSC/ANSI-certified bicycle helmet at all times while riding. Failure to do so is grounds for immediate removal from the Event. I am solely responsible for the condition and suitability of my bicycle, clothing, and other equipment.
RULES, COURSE, AND REFUGE COMPLIANCE (VOLUNTARY RESCISSION)
I agree to follow all Event rules, course markers, instructions from Event staff, Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regulations, and applicable federal, state, and local laws. I will remain on designated, open routes at all times. Leaving the marked course, entering closed or sensitive refuge areas, littering, harassing wildlife, or refusing to follow official directions is strictly prohibited.
Any violation of these rules constitutes an immediate, voluntary withdrawal and rescission of my participation in the Event. Upon any such violation or deviation from the designated course, I acknowledge that I am no longer an authorized participant, and Event organizers and refuge personnel are immediately and entirely released from any supervisory duty, support obligation, or liability concerning my subsequent actions, safety, or retrieval.
INDEMNIFICATION
I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the released parties from any claims, damages, liabilities, costs, or attorney fees arising from my actions, my equipment, or my failure to follow Event, refuge, or local rules.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE
I authorize Event staff to arrange emergency medical evaluation, treatment, and transportation if I am unable to do so. I am solely responsible for all costs of such care and transport. I am responsible for maintaining my own health and accident insurance. The released parties do not provide medical insurance coverage for participants.
MEDIA RELEASE
I grant the Event organizers permission to use my name, likeness, photographs, video, and audio from the Event for promotional and organizational purposes without compensation.
NO REFUND / NO TRANSFER
All entry fees are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable. The Event may be altered, shortened, delayed, or canceled due to weather, flooding, refuge road conditions or closures, safety concerns, or force majeure events. Under no circumstances will refunds, partial refunds, or rollovers be issued.
GOVERNING LAW & VENUE
This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Texas. Any dispute shall be brought exclusively in a court of competent jurisdiction in Cameron County, Texas.
SEVERABILITY
If any part of this agreement is found unenforceable, the remaining parts remain in full force and effect.
By checking the box below, I confirm that I have read, understood, and voluntarily agree to all terms of this waiver, including the no-refund policy and the rules of conduct. If I am the parent or legal guardian of a participant under 18, I accept these terms on the minor’s behalf and agree to indemnify the released parties for any claim brought by or on behalf of the minor.
