If you have an Amazon Prime account we would definitely suggest taking a look at Amazon Video for some interesting shows. The one we’re particularly interested in at the moment is “World’s Toughest Race: Eco-Challenge Fiji.” This show is nuts and makes the Amazing Race look like its baby stuff. Eco-Challenge Fiji follows 60 teams across a near-impossible race across Fiji. Teams are required to swim in freezing waters, use a stand-up paddleboard for 20kms on end, climb large mountains, and mountain bike through horrifying terrain. Here are some of our thoughts on this race.
What is the Eco-Challenge?
The Eco-Challenge is a days-long expedition that is competed in teams of four. Each team represents one country and together they must all cross the finish line of this huge race. Teams have access to the race 24 hours of the day and all hope to complete the race and win the grand prize. The race is over 500km long and is open for approximately 10 days to complete.
What are Racers expected to do?
Racers are expected to almost anything and everything possible. Swimming, running, and biking are just three of the basic skills needed. White water rafting, horseback riding, trekking, kayaking, and mountain climbing are also some skills that the racers are expected to have in order to complete the race. When initially watching the show, it makes it seem that all of these individuals on the race are already equipped with these skills. Upon further research, however, Eco-Challenge requires participants to get certified in the areas of rope rappelling, kayaking, navigation, and horseback riding. This explains why they’re already so good at these tasks.
Is it safe?
The biggest question we had before watching the show was, is this race safe? The answer: debatable. The race has plenty of medics on-site and at least two members from the team have to have first aid training. The terrain and the course itself is dangerous but the weather and terrain conditions are constantly monitored by the organizers. Based on the episodes we’ve watched the teams are definitely resilient but several suffered some injuries and hypothermia causing them to drop out of the race.
The Next Eco-Challenge
The next Eco-Challenge is set to take place in 2021 in Patagonia. Unfortunately, entry into the race is closed but it’s definitely something worth checking out if you plan on racing in one of these races one day. If you’re interested in seeing what requirements might be like for the year after you might want to take a look at the website.
Make sure you watch the show on Amazon Video and let us know, would you participate in the World’s Toughest Race?
