Extreme heat takes toll in 116km desert trek

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Tuesday, 14 December 2010 13:47

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The Empty Quarter fills with action

13 December, 2010 – Liwa Dune

The long and arduous trek (116km) across the Rub al Kahli (aka The Empty Quarter) continued during the night, with teams confronting the moonless night and massive, strength-draining dunes. The early morning 94km MTB section, prior to the start of the trek, also meant the teams would spend more time tramping through the heat of the day, which could add to the already formidable difficulty of this stage. Only a handful of teams managed to complete the long course in totality, reaching all 4 of the optional CPs. Others were more cautious, deciding to follow the straighter, shorter route in an effort to avoid overreach and possible physical collapse in the searing heat (+35°C).

Early race leaders THULE ADVENTURE (NZL) were the first to cross the line at 13h35, after 20h30’ spent actually trekking plus 8 hours of mandatory rest. “It was much more difficult this year,” Richard USSHER announced at the line, especially with the MTB section in the morning and we had to scramble up the steep, soft sand in the dark,” concluded the three time ADAC winner. About 1 hour later, THULE EUROPE (FRA) followed them into the finish, visibly marked by the effort required to complete this extremely demanding stage. Soon after them came the impressive Swiss WENGER team, followed closely by ADIDAS TERREX (GBR). Surprise team CHINA-1 missed the last optional CP (H6+) by minutes as did SALOMON SANTIVERI (ESP), shocked by the temperatures encountered on this last day in the Liwa.

Once in, the teams collapsed under the tents situated next to the finishing line, clutching cold drinks and swapping exploits with fellow athletes; a brief and welcome moment of calm before the transfer to Mirfa, where the final 2 days sea kayaking stage await them.

Live race coverage and information at www.abudhabi-adventure.com