• SKIING THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA PART 1
• GETTING INTO WINTER CLIMBING SHAPE WITH FA GUIDE CHAD PEELE
• CARSTENSZ PYRAMID THE HEROES PROJECT EXPEDITION IN THREE ACTS
• KYLE MILLER ON FIRST FILM PREMIERE AND TRANSITIONING FROM SKI BUM TO PRO ATHLETE
• BE FIRST RECIPIENT JON TURK RECAPS HIS EPIC, FIRST CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF ELLESMERE ISLAND
• TAHOE GUIDE MEETING DAY 2 THE GUIDE BUILT PROCESS

As you know, we here at First Ascent believe in supporting the drive to be first. That’s why we’ve decided to support one of the world’s toughest adventure races by sponsoring Team Eddie Bauer, one of 15 teams competing in the Wenger Patagonian Expedition Race. This year’s race follows its most southern course ever, kicking off today in some of the most rugged and climatically diverse terrain in the Chilean Patagonia region located between southern latitudes 49º and 56º. Team Eddie Bauer will be tested to the limit on bike, kayak and foot as they traverse plains, mountains, glaciers, native forests, swampland, rivers, lakes and channels.

Team Eddie Bauer includes Robert Finlay and his son, Druce Finlay, Valentin Chapa and Paulette Kirby. Robert is a veteran of more than forty adventure races and directs Kayak Lake Mead and the Desert Winds Adventure series when he’s not competing. His son, Druce, shares his thirst for adventure and competition, with more than 25 years of climbing, mountain biking and kayaking experience under his belt. Valentin was first turned onto the sport after seeing a race on television in 1999 and works as an emergency room nurse when he’s not racing, while full-time Nurse Practitioner, Paulette, is focusing on adventure racing at a time in her life when most women are planning for retirement.

On the race’s web site, Druce said, “The Patagonian Expedition Race is a very sincere event; it is only for those who truly enjoy adventure racing and appreciate the beauty and the wilderness of Patagonia. It is a special experience, it does not offer prize money so we are not in it for money, but for all of the small victories that happen along the way and the sheer sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing the finish line.”

Each of the racers will be equipped with First Ascent Serrano Jackets, Mountain Guide Pants, Merino Ultra ¼ Zips and Pants, along with other First Ascent base layer items. The team has promised to send through photos and dispatches from the race as they can, and we’ll be sure to let you know how they’re progressing. Good luck to Team Eddie Bauer!

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