0815-21-May: 63 competitors have arrived at camp 5. Ian Shephard (South Africa) came in looking strong. The medical tent is at full capacity, with many competitors seeking footcare. Dr. Allen Chen said, ?we are seeing a lot more chronic stuff now. Blisters are getting worse, shoes are absolutely filled with sand and there have been cases of tendonitis and obviously, dehydration is a major issue.? Competitors are receiving the best care possible, and looking better for it. Jacob Hastrup (Denmark) always a face of cheer and positivity had a moment when he winced as he was having his erupted blister tended too, before snapping back to normal and joking around with teammate Joel Burrows (United States). Mark Holmes (United Kingdom), who withdrew yesterday, is around camp and keeping fellow competitors? spirits up. Javier Gomez is, ?feeling good,? after performing exceptionally well yesterday.
Those who finished in the early hours of the morning have recovered after sleep and food. Johan Peterson (New Zealand) came in 6th in the 100km stage, and is now, ?a bit sore, but feeling like a million dollars.? Peterson, who was in close pursuit of the leaders of the pack reported, ?every now and again I would only see one set of footprints?just the two of them, running in sync with one another, perfectly aligned.? Matthew Williams (Australia) said, ?I had a few hallucinogenic moments at times, and it was very, very tough, but I am really happy to have completed this stage, and now feel ready for tomorrow?I think they should re-evaluate the course description, ?moderate,? though. It bears no resemblance to the actual course.? The Mosimann brothers (Switzerland) charged in looking strong, and were very emotional when they arrived. They took very good care of one another out on the course, monitoring each other?s wellbeing. Anders Jensen (Denmark), despite complaining of a sore Achilles tendon said, ?I could run further.? Rob Graham (South Africa) commented, ?it was a long haul, and definitely the most difficult day of my athletic life,? but then conceded that the landscape was, ?stunning.? Camp life has a relaxed vibe, as the accomplished competitors exchange stories of their experience and take in the beautiful scenery.
RACINGTHEPLANET is a unique category of rough country footraces that take place over seven days and some 250 kilometers in remote and culturally rich locations around the world. Competitors must carry all their own equipment and food, are only provided with water and a place in a tent each day but are supported by professional medical and operations teams.
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