Monday, April 1, 2024
The recent Vulcania adventure race in Tierra Indomita, part of the Adventure Racing World Series, welcomed 15 teams from eight different countries to the stunning landscapes of Chilean Patagonia. This race marked the second event of the 2024 Series and represented a long-awaited return to Chile for the ARWS, following the Tierra Viva race in 2015. The picturesque town of Pucon, known for its proximity to volcanoes, forests, rivers, and national parks, served again as the race’s central hub, mirroring its role in the previous Chilean race.
Situated beside Lake Villarrica, Pucon was the starting point for the race’s 500km journey, which kicked off with a 55km kayaking leg around the lake, incorporating six checkpoints. The most memorable checkpoint was located on the small Isla Aillaquillen, where participants climbed to a lighthouse. Early leaders included teams from Brazil, Spain, and Uruguay, setting the stage for a challenging competition ahead.
The race featured demanding trekking stages, including a 55km trek along the active Volcan Villarrica and an ascent to the snow-capped Volcan Quetrupillan. Teams tackled glacial craters and enjoyed breathtaking views, tied together for safety. The leading teams enjoyed clear weather initially, but an impending storm threatened to test their endurance and teamwork.
Vidaraid from Spain took the lead, braving cold winds and harsh conditions to cross the summit, closely followed by other top teams. A severe storm hit, bringing high winds, rain, and snow, forcing some teams to seek refuge and halting the race’s progress. The challenging conditions underscored the importance of mental resilience and teamwork in adventure racing.
The storm also led to dangerously high river levels, prompting adjustments to the course and concluding the race with a bike ride back to Pucon. Vidaraid secured the win, earning a spot at the upcoming World Championship in Ecuador. Their victory added to their impressive record in South America, with aspirations to compete in additional ARWS races leading up to the championship.
Team Expedition Canada claimed second place, impressing in their debut race and drawing parallels between the race’s terrain and British Columbia. Uruguay Ultra Sports finished third, ahead of two Argentine teams, highlighting the diverse nationalities among the top competitors.
Last to cross the finish line was the Chilean youth team Izan Invictus, who celebrated on the finish line with Race Director Nelson Yanez. The team are all aged 28 to 31, and after several years of training this was their first ARWS Qualifier and expedition race finish. A delighted team captain, Javier Torres, said, “After many hours of racing, day and night fighting, holding on in body and mind, we managed to reach the goal and complete the race that we had dreamed about so much these past months.”
“It was a very intense course, but beautiful at the same time, with landscapes that left us speechless and extreme climates that led us through difficult times. But as we always say, the mind moves the team and this was no exception.”
All of the teams praised Yanez, his family and the organizing team who put heart and soul into their races and looking after the teams taking part. Yanez said, “We want to express our gratitude to all the teams that were part of this exciting adventure. Their passion, determination and team spirit made Tierra Indomita Vulcania an unforgettable event.”
“I also want to extend our gratitude to the tireless staff who were always on the lookout and worked hard to make this event possible and give a special thank you to our sponsors Merrell Chile and Belator Experience for their generous support. Without you, none of this would be possible!”
He added, “We’re excited for what the future holds and look forward to seeing you all at the next edition of Tierra Indomita Vulcania.”
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
