Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled spectacle as 105 teams from across Europe descend upon Valkenburg, Netherlands, for the thrilling Raid Lowlands adventure race. This event, held from September 20-22, marks the culmination of the Adventure Racing World Series Europe, serving as the 3rd ARWS European Championship.
Throughout the year, the series has taken competitors to Denmark, Spain, France, the UK, Poland, Estonia, and Finland, where champions earned their coveted spot in this prestigious final. The victors of the Raid Lowlands will not only claim the European title but also secure a paid entry into the next Adventure Racing World Championship in British Columbia, Canada, a testament to their incredible endurance and skill.
The field is packed with talented contenders. Among the frontrunners is the Euskal Raid Adventure Team from Spain’s Basque region. After clinching two victories this season and narrowly missing the 2022 European title, they are poised for another strong showing. They face stiff competition from the reigning champions, Team FMR (French Mountain Raiders), who are aiming for a third consecutive title. Adding to the excitement, Finland’s Bull Adventure Team, Spain’s Saltamontes, Denmark’s Team Spirit, and Estonia’s highly ranked Team ACE La Sportiva are all poised to make their mark. In total, competitors from 14 European countries and a team from South Africa will participate, showcasing the global reach of this sport.
The Netherlands, the host nation, boasts a strong contingent thanks to a surge in adventure racing’s popularity. Dutch teams, well-represented in the international arena, make up over half of the entries, highlighting the growing passion for this exciting sport within the country.
Organized by the experienced Team XPD Holland, this year marks the 3rd edition of Raid Lowlands. Known for its challenging course and efficient organization, the race quickly sold out its European Championship slots, underscoring its reputation as a premier event. The event is set to test the physical and mental fortitude of participants across various disciplines, including trekking, mountain biking, and kayaking, all against the scenic backdrop of the Lowlands. The challenge culminates at the Shimano Experience Center in Valkenburg, where the winners will be crowned after pushing their limits to the absolute edge.
The festivities kick off with a vibrant flag parade led by Team XPD Holland through the heart of Valkenburg, followed by a welcoming dinner and a race prologue in the town’s streets and parks. After a mysterious bus journey of about two hours, the race begins in earnest, spanning nine stages that challenge competitors with hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, climbing, and swimming. Victory requires completing the 200km route in 20-24 hours, a feat that not only bestows the title of European Champions but also secures a coveted spot at the World Championship in Canada next year.
Get ready for an unforgettable spectacle as these incredible athletes push the boundaries of endurance and determination in the Raid Lowlands, where only the toughest and most skilled will emerge as champions.
