Updates from The Mountain Zone Cybercast

"Oasis," the best damn diner in Australia. (photo: Chris Vile)

The lead teams reached the first "oasis" this afternoon and sat down immediately to a meal of hamburgers, vegie-burgers, soup (3 plates each), pasta, salads, bread and two liters of milo. The chow down was a carbohydrate and protein loaded hot meal -- their first since starting the 538km adventure race last Monday evening.

The reigning champions, Team Eco-Internet of New Zealand looked in top form as they rode mountain bikes into Camp One at Kirrama Station on the 104km fourth leg of the race.

Access to team gear boxes. (photo: Chris Vile)

Howard and the rest of his team said the toughest legs of the race still lay ahead -- particularly the hike across the top of Mount Bartle Frere and the final leg, the 79km sea kayak which will see the remaining 45 teams (if they get that far) paddle from Bramston Beach to Cairns sometime this Saturday to Tuesday.

No teams made it in time to reach the Tully River rafting put-in compulsory dark zone, and they will need to sleep and restore themselves before heading out on the 115km white water rafting section, 62km rainforest trek and 33km horseback ride.

"The race literally starts again from the Tully River tomorrow morning, so it's still anybody's race. Team Eco-Internet is very, very tough and should never be underestimated. Only a day or so ago they were back in 20th place, and they're now on top" said race organizer Mark Burnett.

-- Chris Vile, Mountain Zone Kiwi Correspondent