Ecomotion Pro

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The Long Journey to the Start

Rob Howard / 18.10.2004

Over the weekend the 50 teams taking part in EcoMotion Pro have made a long and complex journey to the start on the Peninsula of Maraú, one of the most beautiful regions of the Bahian coast.

Before leaving they had a glimpse of the course map during the colourful opening ceremony which included two dance presentations and a video of last year’s race as a taster of what is to come. They also had some brief instruction on the use of the local canoes, and confirmation of the rumours that the race would include 150km of paddling in various craft. But frustratingly the delivery of the route maps was left until the Sunday night, just before the start.

The rumour that would happen had already doing the rounds among the teams too. It made the task of the international teams event harder, as they were trying to prepare, for an unknown course, in unfamiliar boats, with a support crew of strangers. It’s not been a relaxing start for them! eVENT Endure arranged to meet their support 3 days running before they turned up and Anna McComack said, “It is a bit on a wing and a prayer, and I wish they could pray in Portuguese!�

The team think they may lose out on the paddling to some of the international competition. Kiwi teams are always strong paddlers and Sportzhub.com were seen practicing with large kites, which might get them off to a good start. The two Spanish teams, including last year’s winners MeridianoRaid.com, led by Antonio de la Rosa, are expected to be fast, and both the U.S. teams are packed with international race experience. Epinephrine recently finished 4th in Subaru Primal Quest.

The strongest Brazilian teams will be in the mix at the front of the race too, and there is going to be an interesting competition between the two all-female Brazilian teams. Clight Salomon Atenah are familiar competitors on the international race scene, but now have to contend with a Playboy team made up of top female racers gathered from other teams. Some strong rivalry is guaranteed.See All Event Posts