The Kouga Municipality extended its congratulations to the Swedish Armed Forces Adventure Team, who emerged as the champions of the 2023 Adventure Racing World Championship.
The event took place on the 840km Expedition Africa course, set against the scenic backdrop of the Kouga region.
On Tuesday, October 24, the Swedish Armed Forces Adventure Team crossed the finish line at the Cape St Francis Resort, securing their well-deserved victory. The team’s journey unfolded over 118 hours, 33 minutes and 26 seconds, when they overcame formidable challenges and bested 106 teams from 30 nations that joined them at the start line.
This remarkable team, comprising members, John Karlsson, Malin Hjalmarsson, Oskar Svärd, and Per Vestling, exhibited unwavering determination and resilience throughout the competition. For Vestling this victory marked his second world title, the first dating back to 2011. The other three team members were all part of the winning team in 2021 in Spain.
Their journey was marked by an extraordinary display of perseverance. On the fifth day of racing, they surged ahead during a gruelling 124km cycle through the challenging Kouga Mountains. The team then tackled a final 32km coastal trekking stage, ultimately reaching the finish line on the sixth day.
However, the adventure did not conclude without its share of hardships. In the dark, amongst the Sand River Dune Fields, the team temporarily lost their way, with strong winds and exhaustion adding to their challenges.
Coupled with Hjalmarsson’s foot injury, and their weariness, the final stage proved to be more demanding than expected, taking 14 hours instead of the projected seven.
As dawn broke, the team found a large crowd waiting at the Cape St Francis lighthouse, offering a warm welcome home. The team’s dedication was recognised, and celebrated by Adventure Racing World Series CEO, Heidi Muller.
“The team’s humour shone through, with Hjalmarsson joking that they ’enjoyed the course so much we spent an extra night out there,’” she said.
The team conquered a range of extreme weather conditions, from scorching heat to unexpected cold spells and heavy rains, which led to the cancellation of a canyon stage.
The Swedish Armed Forces Adventure Team will receive a cash prize and free entry to the next Adventure Racing World Championship, scheduled for Ecuador in November next year.
Kouga executive mayor, Hattingh Bornman, expressed his admiration for the dedication and resilience of all participating teams.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the winning Swedish Armed Forces Adventure Team who have shown exceptional tenacity in the face of adversity.
“The world is witnessing the extraordinary spirit of adventure racing right here in Kouga, and we are proud to be a part of this incredible journey. As we continue to follow the race live, we encourage all the teams to give it their all as they race towards the finish line at Cape St Francis Resort,” he said.
