The Dirt - Adventure Racing according to Robyn Benincasa
presented by Merrell - Wigwam

The team is holding a 1:09 lead over Nike PowerBlast as of CP22. This is half way through one of the most challenging sections of the course.

The 29 mile canyoneering leg between TA7 and TA8 goes right through Hell Roaring Canyon. This aptly named wasteland will challenge racers with numerous short ropes sections and a jaw dropping 400' rappel into an inverted bowl-shaped abyss. There is no water, and abundance of insects and no shelter from the blazing sun.

I was in the Media Center earlier tonight when CEO Rich Brazeau came in. He was at the long rappel in Hell Roaring Canyon when Merrell/Wigwam arrived. He said Nike arrived just 15 minutes or so behind them and were looking strong. Clearly Merrell/Wigwam has managed to put some space between then and Ian's crew since the ropes. Hopefully they'll be able to extend that lead as they race towards TA8.

I'm heading out in the morning to try and get in front of the leaders, Yak.

photo by Corey Rich