Raid Ukatak

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Race Suspended for Rescue Search

Leslie Quinton / 21.01.2003

Monday night at 22:35, a radio call was received by CP 5 from Sandra Houle of Team 4, BCG-ING Quebec. This local team reported that a team member had fallen into the river between CP\'s 4 & 5 and that they were going to set up camp and wait for rescue. Houle did not sound panicked and said they were equipped to wait, but the line was cut before the individual or location were identified. Communications are very poor in this section due to the mountainous terrain.

A rescue team was sent out immediately upon receiving the call. When the team had not been found by late Monday night/early Tuesday morning, the organisers decided to suspend the race until the camp where the team had set up had been found. A group of local snowmobilers went out at first light to trace the route possibly taken by the team, along with a number of local volunteers. It is known that they are near a body of water, but there are many lakes and rivers in the regions where they could be located. An aerial search and rescue team is also preparing to depart.

All other teams on the course have been held at the last checkpoint they reached until Team 4 has been picked up, when they will be allowed to continue the race without penalty.

(Ed. Obviously the race can take no chances and has to put all resources into locating the missing competitors. Fortunately, they are well equipped and have already had the trial 4 hour camp to test out all their equipment.

Holding the teams for too long may present problems for the race as they may have limited space at CP\'s and teams will have limited food provisions with them. However, all teams are reported to be safely under shelter and the hard pressed organisers won\'t worry about less important issues until the missing team are found and safe.)See All Event Posts