The Dream Raid

Rob Howard / 01.11.2005

The Dream Raid, which last took place in 2003, and is now happening once again, and giving 16 lucky teams the chance to race across the Pacific Ocean island of New Caledonia.

The 5 day race covers 330 kms starting from Tontouta and finishing at Hienghène (in the northern part of the island). It began with a paddling prologue which ended at the brand new Ramada Hotel where a rope bridge was set up between the 50 metres-high towers will end the stage.

Then on Sunday morning at 5 am, the race proper began with a 7km bike leg, followed by a 60 kilometre run with some difficult navigation. Then it was back to the kayaks, after a bad weather delay, with sails and kites making their appearance on this windy 28km leg along the “Forgotten” coast.

Then came another bike stage before the “ride and run” stage (only one horse per team) which marks the end of the southern stage of the race. (Yes there are still races that think horses are a good idea in AR.)

With 82 kilometres by kayak, 68 kilometres by mountain bike and 25 kilometres of trekking, the northern segment should be harder than the previous one and the organisers say good navigation will be essential.

There will be more news of the race on www.sleepmonsters.com.au - with just a little bias towards the Aussie teams who are in the leading group of teams!