Eco-Challenge

GO-CH"'i«( «; ~ (j) "r)'rn)~\~ ,\.~\..•..

Danum Valley was the centre of I activity as Sabah hosted the 7th EcoChallenge, world's toughest expedition race from August 20 - September 2, 2000. Yayasan Sabah/ICSB was one of the sponsoring agencies in organising the race.

About 500 people comprising participants, race officials and staff ;nundated the quiet and serene atmosphere of Danum Valley especially Danum Valley Field Centre [DVFC] and Borneo Rainforest Lodge [BRL].Staff of YS/ICSBmade sure it was one event to be remembered by contributing their expertise, energy and time (there were a lot of sleepless nights, mind you!).

Scientists literally conquered the kitchen by taking charge of recording, inspecting and dissecting the different species of vegetation, I mean vegetables and vertebras ....for meals?

Our cameramen and videomen snapped and filmed every angle possible (everything that caught their fancy). The drivers didn't drive anyone crazy except themselves, when they had to adhere to the 30 mph speed limit. The elephants seemed to move with the speed of lightning, they informed. It was also a long wait when they were caught by Eco-Challenge no-entry speed trap. Vehicles were not allowed to pass during "bike" season.

At DVFC, participants cleared the "kedai runcits" stock of Coca-Cola drinks. Edrews (DVFC Project Manager) had his man replenished it with stream ... spring and mineral waters! YS/ICSB was indeed a gracious sponsor.

Eco-Challenge Sabah 2000 attracted 70 teams (four members to a team) from allover the globe to participate in this gruelling race that was flagged-off on August 20 in the east coast of Sabah.

Prime Minister, Dato' Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hj. Osu Hj. Sukam with the Malaysian teams

The race involved jungle trekking, paddling/sailing in perahu outrigger canoes, jungle river paddling in sampan canoes ..canyoneering/fixed ropes, scuba diving, mountain biking and caving.