Squamish resident Gary Robbins and his three teammates will join 90 other teams from around the world, June 25, for a grueling and intensive expedition adventure race called Primal Quest (PQ).
PQ is the world's toughest expedition adventure race, similar to the well-known Eco-Challenge, where teams are given only maps with numerous mandatory checkpoints throughout the course. Using only their compasses, teams must navigate the entire route, in the process using eight different disciplines including, trail running/trekking, mountain biking, flat water kayaking, fixed ropes work, horseback riding, mountaineering, canyoneering and whitewater swimming.
The 2006 PQ race promises to be the most challenging yet, running more than 800 kilometres of rugged and varied terrain in the Western United States, ranging from desert-like plains all the way up to 4,300 metres above sea level and back again.
Team 'Natural Wonder', consisting of Robbins, Mark Fearman from Whistler, Aimee Dunn from North Vancouver, and Tom Jarecki of Ladner, are one of just four Canadian teams competing in the race along with 90 teams from 19 countries.
"We are very fortunate to receive an entry to this prestigious event as we basically won a lottery draw of qualified entrants," said Robbins.
Fearman and Robbins have been friends and race buddies for two seasons, and met Jarecki on an adventure racing website before competing in a 36-hour event with him this past summer. Dunn is also a longtime friend, but has not yet raced with any of her teammates.
"The largest events Tom, Aimee or myself have competed in are the 36-Hour Raid the North series, which is a non-stop race like PQ," said Robbins.
The co-ed teams of four must compete non-stop over the course and will have up to 10 days to finish the event. All team members must complete the entire course together, because if one member cannot continue, the whole team is disqualified, losing a chance at the $250,000 purse.
Team Natural Wonder has already begun a rigorous training schedule, consisting of biking and running.
"The whole team shares the same enthusiasm and dedication for this event and we all believe that we have the ability to complete this race, which in and of itself is an amazing accomplishment," said Robbins.
For more information on the race click to [email protected]
