From the delivery of a massive bespoke handmade cargo net with a breaking load of 13 tonnes to open-water swimming test teams surging across an inland lake in subzero temperatures, the residents of North-West Victorian seaside town Southport have been noticing some unusual activity lately.
On 20-21 April around 3,000 adrenaline pumped weekend warriors will line up in Southport's Victoria Park for a monumental battle through the inaugural XtremeSTORM race as it traverses 18km over the town across iconic landmarks that will be transformed into 35 grueling obstacles.
With obstacle races experiencing a huge rise in popularity, the event is the brainchild of Jonathan Cunningham MBE Managing Director of STORM Consultancy and a decorated ex Army Major whose 18 year military career included the groundbreaking capture of Basra during the 2003 Gulf War with 7th Armoured Brigade 'The Desert Rats'.
After Southport the event will then commence a tour of the UK and has so far attracted entrants from as far afield as Norway and Sweden. “It taps deep into the human psyche,” says Jonathan. “In the current climate, people are seeking more than job satisfaction and material wealth and following inspiration from the Olympics and Paralympics, want to test themselves to their very physical and psychological limits and tell their friends in the pub just what they have can achieve.”
An Xtreme Village will be constructed in the centre of the event for spectators and a program of fringe events will create an exciting carnival atmosphere that will take over the town for the weeks leading to the event.
More at www.xtremestorm.com.
