Adventure Awaits: Your November Guide to Outdoor Excitement, Race Highlights, and Epic Events
Photo by Ben Tibbetts
In the dynamic world of adventure, the recent exploits of athletes and adventurers have left us in awe. From trail races to extreme kayaking, and heartwarming family tales, the global adventure scene is buzzing with remarkable feats.
As we delve into these diverse adventures, it's evident that the human spirit knows no bounds. From trail races to Arctic expeditions, each story unfolds as a testament to courage, determination, and the unyielding pursuit of the extraordinary in the world of adventure.
Adventure Race Results
#1 Across Andes
Embarking on the ultimate adventure, Across Andes weaves cyclists through the untamed beauty of Patagonia in southern Chile. This year’s 1,000km gravel cycling race, aptly named Patagonia Verde, ventured to the farthest corners of Chile's Aysén region, renowned for its lush landscapes, colossal glaciers, fjords, and snow-kissed peaks. A journey to the world's end.
In a heartwarming display of camaraderie, Maria Paola Bulla (CO) and Raquel Parizi (BR) clinched the women's title, crossing the finish line hand in hand, opting for a shared triumph over the final 33km. Andrés Tagle (CL) seized the men's championship. The Spanish pair, Óscar Pujol and César Mato, claimed victory in the duo category, arriving just under 30 minutes after the leading women.
Nature, however, threw a curveball this year with relentless rain and gloomy skies throughout most of the race, even disrupting the ferry crossing. The challenging weather led to early withdrawals from some front-runners, especially in the women’s category, braving the harsh conditions at their peak.
Among the few to conquer all editions of Across Andes are three resilient Chileans: this year's champion Andrés Tagle, fourth-placer Canuto Errazuriz, and Jorge Huerta.
What a thrilling ride Across Andes delivered this year!
#2 The Grand Raid Réunion
The 2023 Diagonale des Fous, an iconic race in Réunion Island's Grand Raid Réunion festival, unfolded between October 19 and 23, showcasing the resilience of athletes on the challenging 165-km route. Starting at Saint Pierre, the race navigated through UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Réunion National Park, culminating in the capital city, Saint-Denis.
This year's event featured an impressive lineup, including UTMB's 2022 winner Katie Schide and the unexpected return of four-time champion François D'Haene. The race, notorious for its brutal technical terrain and 10,000m of climbing, lived up to its reputation as one of the toughest 100-milers globally.
In the Women's Race, Schide's dominance was evident from the start, leading with a comfortable gap. Demonstrating her prowess, Schide conquered the challenging course, finishing in an impressive 27:31:08, securing a commanding victory over second-place finisher Camille Bruyas. The battle for third was fierce, with Emilie Maroteaux eventually securing the final podium position.
In the Men's Race, Aurélien Dunand-Pallaz, the 2023 Hardrock 100 champion, claimed victory in a time of 23:21:23, with a runaway performance reminiscent of his success at Hardrock. Aurélien joins Courtney Dauwalter (2022) and Julien Chorier (2011) as the only people to have won the Grand Raid and Hardrock in the same calendar year.
#3 The LimoneXtreme SkyRace
In the picturesque setting of Alto Garda, 605 athletes representing 35 nations gathered for the Limone Skyrunning Extreme, a double world final. The challenging trails bordering Lombardy and Trentino tested their mettle, with 129 tackling a gruelling 1,160m elevation in a 3km sprint, while 476 faced the 22.2km Limone Skyrunning Extreme with a formidable +2,052m elevation gain.
Switzerland's Roberto Delorenzi claimed victory for the second consecutive year, while Spain's Antonio Martinez secured third place, clinching the Cup. In the women's category, Sara Alonso from Spain triumphed in Limone, but France's Clementine Geoffray secured the Skyrunner World Series title.
Amidst the stunning backdrop of Cima Mughéra and Monte Carone, Delorenzi held off fierce competition, finishing in 2:23:18. In a dominating performance, Alonso secured the women's title with a time of 2:56:20. Limone Skyrunning Extreme 2023 not only crowned champions but witnessed the preservation of race records, a testament to the enduring spirit of skyrunning excellence.
Photo by NKBV
Feats of Extraordinary Proportions
Rediscovering the Pyrenees - Kilian Jornet
Renowned for his prowess in conquering challenging races and trails worldwide, Catalan ultrarunner Kilian Jornet embarked on a monumental challenge, "Rediscovering the Pyrenees," marking it as "one of the hardest things I've ever done." Over eight days in October, the Spanish trailblazer achieved an astonishing feat, summiting an awe-inspiring 177 peaks in his home range of the Pyrenees with elevations exceeding 3,000m.
Beginning at the Frondella and culminating at the Pica d’Estats, Jornet covered an impressive 485km, with a cumulative elevation gain exceeding 43,000. Reflecting on the experience, Jornet expressed the spectacular nature of rediscovering forgotten peaks from his youth juxtaposed with the immense challenge.
Unable to participate in races due to an earlier injury, Jornet conceptualised this ambitious project, seeking to connect the Pyrenees' peaks higher than 3,000 metres. Supported by local experts, he began the attempt on October 2, achieving a remarkable feat by summiting 40 different peaks in a single day, enduring 39 consecutive hours of non-stop walking, and connecting route sections by bike.
The adventure reached its zenith as Jornet watched the sunrise from the pinnacle of Pica d’Estats in the Alt Pirineu Natural Park on October 10. Despite a challenging year marked by a sacrum injury ruling him out of UTMB, completing the Rediscovering the Pyrenees challenge served as a triumphant conclusion to Kilian Jornet's remarkable journey in 2023.
Photo by Job Savelsberg
The Arctic Cowboys - The Northwest Passage
A daring crew of four adventurers called the Arctic Cowboys etched their names in history as the first-ever group to successfully kayak the 2,575km Arctic Circle's treacherous Northwest Passage, setting two world records on October 8.
It took three months, and the grim effects of climate change, to do what no other adventurer had done before in one of the most icy corners of the globe. Traversing Cape Bathurst, the fearless quartet – comprising West Hansen, Jeff Wueste, Mark Agnew, and Eileen Visser – officially concluded their challenging expedition as the Passage opens into the Beaufort Sea, the internationally recognised western boundary.
Launching their expedition at the eastern boundary, where Baffin Bay transitions into Lancaster Strait, the Arctic Cowboys undertook a remarkable 83-day journey that started on July 18. What sets this achievement apart is the team's reliance solely on paddles, without the aid of sails or other propulsion methods – an unparalleled demonstration of human-powered navigation through the icy labyrinth.
A noteworthy distinction lies in the Arctic Cowboys' successful completion of the Northwest Passage in a single season. While numerous attempts have been made, this intrepid team stands alone in conquering the formidable route within the constraints of a solitary Arctic season.
Popcorn-worthy Movies
Renowned for its extreme weather, Mount Washington has sometimes lured adventurers into perilous situations.
Dive into the gripping tale of 109 BELOW, unravelling the dramatic events of a 1982 rescue mission on the mountain. It's not just a story of survival; it's a narrative that forever altered the lives of climbers, rescuers, and even shaped the future of prosthetics.
Embark on a heartwarming adventure with Lucy's Dad. This gripping documentary unfolds the tale of Ash, ultrarunner Lucy Bartholomew's 61-year-old father, as he finally earns his spot in the Western States 100 after years of waiting.
More than a running story, it weaves together adventure, family connections, and pure inspiration. Brace yourself for a cinematic journey that highlights the profound importance of those who share the path with you.
Join a fearless trio in Surface as they conquer the northern reaches of Norway, seamlessly transitioning between skis and inflatable packrafts to explore mesmerising landscapes.
Witness their mettle being pushed to the limits in the face of relentless storms, turbulent seas, and the ever-looming threat of avalanches.
Reading Recs
Peak of the Week: Mera Peak Nepal - Originally published in Strava Stories
Venture beyond the ordinary and set your sights on Mera Peak, a non-technical marvel cradled at the head of a valley in Nepal's legendary Khumbu region. Awaiting intrepid explorers is an unparalleled view of five of the world's six highest mountains, a sight that transcends the boundaries of language.
From Everest's mighty southwest face to the imposing countenance of Lhotse and Makalu, the panorama unfolds like a dream. Picture the distant allure of Kangchenjunga and Cho Oyu, creating a mountain symphony that defies description. Mera Peak claims its throne as the best-positioned non-technical mountain globally, granting an awe-inspiring spectacle rarely found elsewhere.
The ascent from Mera's high camp to its summit, while not technically demanding, unfolds amidst thin air, presenting a physically demanding journey. Yet, the rewards are immense as daylight breaks, revealing a kaleidoscope of hues from grey to pink and the final orange glow. Witness the transformation of light against the breathtaking backdrop, a beautiful spectacle reserved for those who conquer Mera Peak.
This unparalleled experience, however, comes with a catch - Mera Peak's formidable height (6,476m / 21,247ft) and remote location require a tenacious spirit. The journey spans three weeks, including acclimatisation, from Kathmandu to the heart of Mera Peak and back, making it a challenge reserved for those seeking more than a weekend escapade.
Why Mera Peak? Because it's not just about reaching the top; it's about embracing the journey, savouring every step, and witnessing a world where the extraordinary becomes your everyday view.
Shades of Alpine White - Originally published in Sidetracked
The Bernese Oberland, with its impressive mountains and turquoise lakes, casts a spell that lingers. Embark on your favourite expeditions to witness the region's allure, promising an enchanting escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether skiing down pristine slopes, conquering alpine heights, soaring through the skies, or floating in a jacuzzi, each moment unfolds a new chapter in the captivating story of the Swiss Alps.
Start off on an unforgettable journey in the Jungfrau Region, in the car-free village of Wengen. Nestled at 1,274m, Wengen offers an ideal base for exploration. Enjoy the freedom of over 200km of groomed pistes, connected seamlessly by state-of-the-art lifts. Immerse yourself in a day of exhilarating skiing, exploring untouched areas and relishing the pure joy of the slopes.
Head out on a human-powered ascent from Grindelwald. Traverse cloud-kissed landscapes, with glimpses of sun-soaked summits and breathtaking 4,000m peaks. Ascend the hard, icy ridge, unveiling a panorama of Alpine grandeur. Feast your eyes on the Eiger's awe-inspiring presence. The descent, though challenging, rewards with unmatched views and an endless journey down. Cap the day with a well-deserved stop at a local buvette, sipping hot chocolate amid the stunning Alpine backdrop.
You can experience Interlaken's lakes from above as you take to the sky, soaring over verdant valleys and snow-capped peaks. Transition to winter kayaking, paddling across glassy lakes and marvelling at the changing seasons. Sealed in a drysuit, navigate the serene waters, feeling the crisp air on your cheeks.
Choose to venture into the heart of Swiss hamlets, winding through picturesque landscapes. Strap into snowshoes for a rhythmic stride, discovering a new, accessible way to experience the Alps in winter. Snowshoeing, less technical and more affordable than skiing, opens up a world of exploration. Conclude the journey with a floating jacuzzi experience on Lake Brienz. Relish the warmth against the chilly evening air, jumping into the freezing lake for a refreshing contrast.
Photo by Brendan O’Brien
The Other Whistler - Originally published in Fall Line Magazine
Embark on an exhilarating journey beyond Whistler's renowned freeride slopes. The relentless climb to the Kees and Claire Hut unfolds as a test of endurance, an ascent marked by monotonous steps. Yet, the relentless pursuit is rewarded when, standing atop the ridge, a breathtaking vista of towering mountains reveals the Kees and Claire Hut in the distance - a haven for the weary.
The four-hour-plus trek is a testament to dedication, but the access is unparalleled. A streamlined journey from village to Whistler Peak, traversing Symphony and Musical Bumps, leads to the hut. Amidst the stunning backdrop of the Spearhead and Fitzsimmons Range, weary adventurers gaze upon the spectacle, confirming that 'the climb' was indeed worth every arduous step.
The Kees and Claire Hut, a product of community efforts and ongoing crowdfunding, stands as more than a mere refuge. This two-story, 2,500-square-foot marvel accommodates 38 guests, seamlessly blending alpine shelter with Euro-chic luxury. Beyond the wooden facade lies a spacious interior with a large dining area, a modern kitchen, USB charging stations, and a chill-out zone adorned by a roaring fire. This is no ordinary hut; it's a high-altitude haven.
While the mountains echo tales of icy challenges, the warmth and luxury within the hut serve as a reminder that, sometimes, the journey is as enriching as the destination.
Event Calendar: The Month’s Ahead
The 03
Get your name on the Wall of Fame of The 03, New Zealand's longest Brevet. With 4,038km of route and 45,000m of climbing it's the epitome of "type 2 fun."
Dec. 27 - Feb. 21
Photo by Marek Piwnicki
Alpine World Ski Championships
Experience the pinnacle of alpine skiing at France's Courchevel and Méribel. Witness the thrill of the Alpine World Ski Championships - an unmissable event.
Feb. 6 - 19
Photo by Cyprien Delaporte
See you out there!
Team FATMAP