On January 26, approximately 100 competitors will embark on a grueling 400-kilometer race in weather conditions as extreme as they are unpredictable. With the course kept secret up until the start, teams will be ice canoeing, mountain biking, ice climbing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, day and night, using map and compass through February 4, 2001.

The going will be rough, steep and rocky, with deep gorges, cold waters and heavy snows. The course is set in the beautiful and unique region of Charlevoix, Canada. UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Education) has declared this region part of the World Biosphere Reserve — a true paradise for winter adventurers. It also holds the title of being second place in the world for its snow accumulation and receives up to nine meters per winter.

Race Information

Technical
Four-person, coed, unsupported teams will navigate for five to six days nonstop across a challenging and unforgiving terrain. Most checkpoints (CP) and transition areas (TA) will be warm huts, heated aboriginal teepee tents and even one igloo. Gear will be forwarded by the organization. Strategy, planning and proper equipment will be of utmost importance to succeed.

Location
Quebec's Charlevoix region is located two hours east of historic Quebec City. Set between the Saguenay River, the Saint-Laurent River and Lake Saint-Jean, it is well isolated from any major town. The headquarters and hotel accommodations are set on the Ile-aux-Coudres, a magnificent island on the Saint-Laurent River. The best way to get there is by plane to Quebec City and from there organizers will arrange transportation services for teams and their equipment. If cost is a major factor, it is a little cheaper to get to Montreal, but from there it will be a free five hour bus ride (organizers will arrange transportation).

Limited Number of Entries
There is a maximum of 25 spots available depending on origin: eight seats for Canadian teams, eight for US-based teams, seven for European teams, and two remaining spots for the rest of the world. The nationality of the team is decided according to the majority of teammates. The inscription fee is $4200(CDN) or $2900 (US), which includes transport from Montreal or Quebec City airports or train stations (easier from Quebec City), four nights accommodation with breakfasts and suppers.

Mandatory Rest Period
During the race there will be a rest period in a location predetermined by the organization to test teams mandatory equipment in real winter conditions. With the equipment teams are carrying, each team must be able to camp out for a certain amount of time in complete autonomy. The teams that fail the test and require any assistance will be penalized, thus impairing their chances of crossing the finish line within the time limits. Have the right equipment!

Gear Logistics
Gear will be forwarded at TAs. Organizers will supply teams with bags for their gear. These bags will not be made available at every TA so teams will need to plan ahead for extra clothes. Organizers are planning the circuit so teams have access to one of their bags at least every day. Teams will get more info on those TAs and the procedures once they are registered.

Medical, Search and Rescue
Organizers have obtained the services of the Quebec-based company, Osmoco-Hastings Aviation, one of the world leaders in remote medical situations, air evacuation, and search and rescue. They will supply the race with doctors, paramedics, medical tents, helicopter and winter vehicles for emergency situations.

Team Sponsorship and Visibility
A team of photographers and internet journalists will be on site, feeding Raid International Ukatak's web site live during the race. Organizers will be sending out daily generic video images across North America to major sports/news stations. Organizers can send press releases and a brief overview of a team's progress to their newspapers, local radio stations and television stations. It is up to the team to find the contact person in its local area and forward organizers the information. This service is free and aims at assuring team sponsors' visibility. Use it. Teams will receive further information on sponsor logos and where to place them.

Alternative Courses
Snow conditions will set the average pace of the teams. Therefore, organizers have set up alternate courses for either a slow or fast-paced race. There is always a possibility of alternate course for teams that don't make the cutoff times to let them reach the finish line. Organizers have pre-tested the circuit at -35°C (with the wind-chill factor) and a couple of weeks later at 6°C. Teams can expect any kind of weather and should be prepared for the coldest.

Certifications and Ability Testing
Per competitor: Rope skill certificate and test; on-site ice climbing test (optional)
Per team: One member has to do a navigation test. Two members must have a first aid certificate.

Prizes
There will be more than $20,000 awarded towards prizes. There is a no cash policy for the 2001 event, so most of it will consist of airline tickets and 2002 entry fees and gear.

For more information on the race, contact race organizers at info@ukatak.com or call (514)918-6673.