10 days of mountain biking, hiking & orienteering? Primal Quest offer the ultimate in extreme sports competition. This year Primal Quest is taking Utah to the extreme.
Imagine if you will...
You are heading to the top of one of the highest mountain peaks in the US. The suffocating heat assaults your body while the thinning air starves your muscles of the oxygen you need to continue pushing yourself further into this torture. At the rate you are going, you should summit within the hour. You hiked over 120 miles to reach the base of this mountain and when you get to the top? You'll get on a mountain bike for a 60-mile race to the river. You're almost halfway done now. When you finish you may ask yourself, "Will I ever do this again?" Oh, yes my friend, because you are an adventure racer and Primal Quest is just around the corner.
What is Primal Quest?
It is an expedition length race that covers over 400 miles in ten days or less. According to organizers it is "the ultimate test of human endurance, selfless teamwork, and relentless determination." This year, Primal Quest is heading to Utah.
When is PQ and who participates?
Beginning on June 25, 2006 coed teams of four will be hiking, biking, climbing and kayaking across a region that can experience temperatures greater than 100°. Teams must navigate their way through unforgiving extremes in weather and terrain using only a compass and a map. Primal Quest is a non-stop adventure. Teams race around the clock, determining for themselves when and how long they rest, if at all. Racers are competing against each other, the elements and the clock. Teams must travel as a unit and only teams who reach each checkpoint within the time limit are allowed to proceed.
An environmentally friendly race
Primal Quest debuted in Telluride, Colorado in 2002. In addition to fostering a spirit of adventure and competition, Primal Quest recognizes the effects each event has on the environment. Organizers attempt to minimize the impact through careful planning, training and strict rules and penalties.
Want to check out the race but can't afford the trip this summer?
Check out the Primal Quest website . Each team is fitted with a GPS system so that organizers can keep track of team progress and location. You can watch your favorite team make their way through the course while you check out team bio's and links.
Who knows? Maybe you'll find your way into the competition next year.
Related articles: Primal Quest Utah Prep Guide
