Challenge of Quetazl - Are you the kind of person who likes to compete?

Do you consider yourself as well-prepared physically and mentally? No..I don't want to know how many push-ups you can do..  Nor how many minutes you can hold your breath..

I'm talking about biking for 3 days!

Let me tell you about the Challenge of Quetzal. 

This  challenge has a story. It was created by four friends looking for adventure. And to discover the stunning natural beauty of Guatemala. It is a mountain bike race. But not a simple one!

It is a 3 day stage race. 300 kilometers. Starts in San Juan Sacatepequez and finishes 3 days later in Coban.

Depending on the place, weather will vary considerably. From wet heat to dry heat or humid weather. During the race you will see the most beautiful places of the region. You'll pass through semi-desert areas, rain forests and through the cloud of Coban.

Coban is a city in Alta Verapaz, 1316 meters above sea level. It is a humid zone.  Surrounded by rain forests and crystalline water rivers. A must see destination!

After the race is over don't forget to visit Coban. Waterfalls, caves, exotic flora and much more! 

Anyway back to the Challenge of Quetzal. This competition is designed for 2 teams or pairs. Each team must pass through each checkpoint in a certain time limit. Don't worry if you are tired or thirsty..  You'll find hydrating drinks and food at each checkpoint.You can carb load with fruit, sandwiches or nutrition bars. My personal favorite is to have some bananas and a chicken sandwich.

By the third day your legs will probably be sore. No naproxen to avoid stomach problems. The last day you will ride through Santa Cruz in Alta Verapaz. But guess what? This will be the shortest day of the race. Just 70 kilometers.  But nothing is free!

The inscription fee is 400 USD per person. Right..it's not fair to pay and not know what you'll get.Let me tell you what this fee includes.

•  Official racing bag
•  Challenge of Quetzal t-shirt
•  Road book
•  Bicycle number
•  Medical care
•  Bicycle repair
•  Breakfast and dinner
•  Water, sports drinks, fruit, sandwiches, etc
•  Lodgings
•  Bike storage
•  Closing ceremony
•  Transportation from the airport

There are four race categories:

•  Free Men
•  Free Women
•  Joint Master A (a total of 80 years or more)
•  Master B (a total of 100 years of more)

In fact the last category is the most recent one.

The first category is the most challenging one. Most athletes choose this one.  They take it very seriously. Don't get frustrated if you don't win. Enjoy the race!  Enjoy the view, feel the wind of Santa Cruz, Coban and more.. 

OK, I won't lie you.

We didn't win the Challenge of Quetzal.  But we did have a lot fun enjoying Guatemala natural beauty! Remember this race assumes you are well-prepared physically and mentally.

Be prepared!