Updates from The Mountain Zone Cybercast

Geoff Hunt of Team Endeavour is first off the trek. (photo: Chris Vile)

At this point, the teams have trekked over 100km through the outback, and a massive distance has been set between the leading and the trailing teams. At 3.30pm, Team Endeavour was the first to emerge from the gum trees and venture on with the second discipline of this event.

The team was in great shape considering their ordeal and seemed very keen to keep moving and get off their feet and into the river. The canoeing leg takes place on the Herbert River which is slow moving and tranquil. After a two hour paddle, the river becomes a maze of channels where dense trees grow. At times the competitors will be lying down to fit under the foliage.

Watch out for crocs... (photo: Chris Vile)

All competitors will end up in darkness on this leg where they will get to see the glowing red eyes of crocodiles watching them. This area is one of the most heavily populated by the crocs and will add heavily to the psychological stress the teams are experiencing. Numerous channels come to dead ends along the river, so correct route selection is essential in order to pass through this perilous journey.

The word is that these first teams will try to get some sleep tonight before having to the ropes in the next section. These guys have been at it non-stop for over 24 hours, so rest time is well deserved if they can get it.

-- Chris Vile, Mountain Zone Kiwi Correspondent