The Wenger Patagonian Expedition Race launches its eighth edition of the annual ‘adventure at the end of the world’.

The 2010 edition will be held on the island of Tierra del Fuego, one of Patagonia’s most southern and remote areas. The more than 600 km journey across the Land of the Fire will become the most southern race in the history of adventure racing, taking competitors through the majestic white-capped mountains of the Darwin Range and the freezing waters of legendary Beagle Channel.

Referred to by many as “the last wild race”, it is not just the distances that make the challenge – the isolated location, unpredictable weather and unexplored landscapes combine to create a trial so great, the glory of winning is the only prize sought.

This glory is fought for by mixed teams of four athletes, with past competitors representing 20 nations including USA, Canada, Germany, Denmark, South Africa, Spain, France, Brazil, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, Sweden, Great Britain, Czech Republic, Turkey, Mexico, Columbia, Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile.

Above even its adventure credentials, the event carries an environmental message of its non-profit organization. Its primary mission being to raise awareness of conserving the very landscape it crosses – the remote wilderness of Southern Patagonia. All funds raised beyond the operating budget of the event are directed to conservation projects in the region.

The 2010 edition is launched with the success of 2009 still ringing in the ears of British team, Helly Hansen – Prunesco, who were the first UK team to win a global expedition racing title, enduring some of the harshest weather in the event’s history.

Thanks to the continued support of Wenger, maker of the genuine Swiss Army knife and precision outdoor equipment, and other sponsors, up to 60 international athletes will have the opportunity to take on the most rugged and diverse challenge known to expedition racing.

Race Founder and Director, Stjepan Pavicic, said: “The value of Wenger Patagonian Expedition Race is in presenting not only a physical and mental challenge, but also a message: we must preserve this remote and pristine region of Chilean Patagonia. I’m proud it has become recognized in both respects.”