Patagonia Expedition Race
Interview with the Race Director - Stjepan Pavicic.
Jacqueline Windh / 09.02.2006
This is the third year that this race, billed as the “toughest race on earth�, will be taking place. I was here for the first two editions, and I believe it! This race has especially been a challenge for European teams, more in the psychological sense, because of its length combined with the remoteness. There are few places in the world – and especially in Europe – where you can trek cross-country for days without coming across even the smallest sign of human presence: not even a fenceline or a path! In past years, this has given teams from countries with more wilderness areas, such as Canada and New Zealand, a decided psychological advantage.
Teams are arriving in Punta Arenas today and tomorrow. Kayaking and ropes tests take place on Friday February 10th, and the race starts at 5:30 am on Sunday February 12th. The final course length is 795 km, and includes long segments of sea-kayaking, cycling and trekking. The final day to finish is Thursday Feb. 23rd, with the prize ceremony the following day.
Following are some highlights of my conversation with Stjepan Pavicic.
Q: Why so few teams?
A: Some teams have had some bad luck. Until recently, we had nine teams confirmed, but four have had to withdraw – three because of injuries and one because of a death in the family. We have also had correspondence from other teams who plan to enter the race, but who are saving themselves for the 2007 edition of this race, when the course will be 1000 km. For example, the French team LA CLUSAZ, winners of last year’s race, have already told me that they will be here next year.
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