3/10/25 Group Ground Proofing Waiver
As mentioned during the application process, the "Sweaty Taste of Texas" xTx group ground-proofing expeditions will generally be done in 100-mile segments. Charlie will be hiking at a pace of 20-25 miles per day, but you can go at your own pace.
Please complete the following waiver items to confirm that you are clear on the nature of the expedition.
We look forward to feedback on ways to improve the trail and any information that will be helpful for future xTx Trail adventurers!
The Legal Stuff
xTx Trail Ground-proofing Expedition Waiver and Media Release
I understand that an xTx trail ground-proofing expedition is not for novices, and the information I have shared with the xTx team regarding my experience level, readiness, and capabilities is accurate and complete.
I understand that I need to be self-supported for the duration of the trip, including water (and water purification), food, overnight camping equipment, and first aid supplies.
I understand that, unlike travel within a national or state park, there is no implied emergency support.
I have no known health conditions that would preclude me from going on this expedition, which will cover 100 miles and be covered at my individual pace.
I understand that if anything arises that negatively affects my readiness or capability to complete this ground-proofing expedition changes, I will withdraw from, or cease my participation in, the ground-proofing expedition.
If traveling by bicycle, I am prepared to do bike repairs such as changing flat tires, and I will wear appropriate safety gear, including a biking helmet.
If traveling by horseback, I am prepared to take care of my horse's needs for the duration of the expedition. I will be able to make arrangements for proper care should my horse become injured. I confirm my horse is at least 72 months old at the time of the expedition.
Lactating mares are not allowed on the expedition. I will contact BikeTexas and obtain their consent before bringing a mare in foal on the expedition. I understand that BikeTexas may not allow mares in their third trimester or late gestation.
My horse has participated in longer distance rides with other horses and has demonstrated a temperament suitable for being around other horses, riders, or participants on an expedition of 100 miles.
In consideration of the services of the Texas Bicycle Coalition / BikeTexas (henceforth referred to as "the Organizers"), their agents, owners, officers, volunteers, participants, employees, and all other persons or entities acting in any capacity on their behalf, I hereby agree to release, indemnify, and discharge the Organizers, on behalf of myself, my children, my parents, my heirs, assigns, personal representative and estate as follows:
1. I acknowledge that an xTx ground-proofing expedition entails known and unanticipated risks that could result in physical or emotional injury, paralysis, death, or damage to myself, to property, or to third parties. I understand that such risks simply cannot be eliminated without jeopardizing the essential qualities of the activity.
2. I expressly agree and promise to accept and assume all of the risks existing in this activity. My participation in this activity is purely voluntary, and I elect to participate in spite of the risks. If I am traveling by horseback, I assume all risk of injury or loss of my horse while participating in this activity.
3. I hereby voluntarily release, forever discharge, and agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Organizers from any and all claims, demands, or causes of action, which are in any way connected with my participation in this activity or my use of the Organizers' equipment or facilities, including any such Claims which allege negligent acts or omissions of the Organizers.
4. If organizers are required to retain an attorney in response to a lawsuit by me or on my behalf, those who filed the suit may be required by a court to pay for Organizer's legal fees.
5. I certify that I have adequate insurance to cover any injury or damage I may cause or suffer while participating, or else I agree to bear the costs of such injury or damage myself. I further certify that I have no medical or physical conditions that could interfere with my safety in this activity, or else I am willing to assume - and bear the costs of -- all risks that may be created, directly or indirectly, by any such condition.
6. In the event that I file a lawsuit against the Organizers, I agree to do so solely in the state of Texas, and I further agree that the substantive law of that state shall apply in that action without regard to the conflict of law rules of that state. I agree that if any portion of this agreement is found to be void or unenforceable, the remaining portions shall remain in full force and effect.
By checking the "I agree" box below, I acknowledge that if anyone is hurt or property is damaged during my participation in this activity, I may be found by a court of law to have waived my right to maintain a lawsuit against the Organizers on the basis of any claim from which I have released them herein. I have had sufficient opportunity to read this entire document. I have read and understood it, and I agree to be bound by its terms.
Media Release:
I hereby grant irrevocable permission to the Organizers, and any media covering the event, and the authorized agents, contractors and representatives of each, to use my name and likeness in any photographs, videotapes, motion pictures, recordings or any other records of my participation in this event for any purpose.