WORLD’S BIGGEST FEMALE-ONLY ADVENTURE CHALLENGE, RAID AMAZONES KICKS OFF
270 women participants touched down last week, at the BIA to participate in the world's biggest female-only adventure challenge. The first of two legs to be held in Sri Lanka, the adventure portion of the challenge commenced on 13 October.
The ‘raid' is based in the resort town of Passekudha and will take the participants around the east coast to locations such as the Pulipainchakal, Pethalai and the famous Thoppigala going off the beaten track deep into the countryside. Over the six days of activities, the participants will have around 35 km of cross country running, 65 km of cycling and 15 km canoeing while also taking part in archery and escape games. Due to the massive demand for the event the first 270 slots sold out instantly and the organisers will host a second identical leg in March with another 270 slots, which are almost already sold out. This will be the 18th edition of the Raid Amazones and will bring over 500 adventurers to Sri Lanka over the two legs. The event is returning to Sri Lanka in 2018/19 for the third time. The previous editions have been held in 2004 and 2009 with the participation of 225 and 138 female adventurers, respectively. Raid Amazon will play a key role in promoting and incentivising more adventure based tourism events to come to Sri Lanka and to promote the east coast. This 100% female event provides an opportunity for women to test their mental and physical endurance all whilst enjoying the beautiful environment and enthralling culture of the host country. The increasing popularity of fitness and wellbeing coupled with a growing desire for adventure makes this the perfect event for women who want to push themselves out of their comfort zone and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime. The challenging nature of the Raid Amazones helps empower and develop a spirit of intense bonding, cooperation and support among all the women taking part.
In addition, the Raid Amazon comes with immense international media coverage for the event via print, television, radio, internet and social media providing excellent exposure for Sri Lanka as a country and tourism destination. This coverage will create international publicity and awareness for the host destination estimated to be worth around $10 million. The event is organised by French based ZBO and their Sri Lankan partner Connaissance de Ceylan, whose major subsidiary includes Theme Resorts & Spas Ltd.