This stage really did give our runners an epic jungle experience. Today split the field with those that were able to, taking on the full course of 34km through thick dense jungle, and the rest the 28km Short Course. The heat and humidity sucked up every last ounce of energy and the climbs seemed to go on forever. The only breaks from the relentless grind were the rafts, boats and zip wires they took to clear the biggest obstacles. Though they were also treated to a warm welcome from a local community at our checkpoint in the village of Mameria.

James Izzard clinched an outstanding win in extremely tough conditions. He is going from strength to strength in this race just as his rivals begin to tire, and is opening up a clear lead. John Belton took 2nd place today, followed by Spencer Matthews who takes 3rd. Gabriella Mathisen continues to have a great race and is currently positioned 5th overall and is the leading woman by a commanding distance.

Whilst not among the runners following the Global Race Series rules, Ruben Quehue also put in a fantastic performance today to be the second over the line, much to the delight of the home crowd. After Stage Four then, James Izzard remains overall leader, but John Belton now moves into 2nd place and Spencer Matthews into 3rd.

Other key performances were from Matthew Knight and Julian Eley who had a fantastic day on the course. They took strength and support from each other, and looked surprised themselves to finish the long course.

All of our runners came back today with a newfound respect for the jungle. It was an epic day, and there are many in camp tonight astonished at what they have achieved so far. And there’s still one more day to go.

Unfortunately, Karl Alvarez and Kris Bollen have had to retire. They have both run great races but today the jungle was the winner. They are both safe and well. It’s a particularly bitter pill for Karl who was pushing to complete the full Global Race Series in the shortest time possible. An extremely tough runner, we’re certain Karl will be back.

Just one more day to go, and it’s the longest of them all.

Wish them luck.

Stage Four Results

Overall Leaderboard After Stage Four