Kiwi Adventure Racer Chris Forne Eyes 11th Godzone Title

Chris Forne, a seven-time adventure racing world champion, is set to compete in the Godzone expedition race on November 27, 2023, in Marlborough, New Zealand. This event marks the twelfth chapter of the renowned race, where Forne will lead Team Rab as they aim for victory. Alongside teammates Sam Clark, Sophie Hart, and Simone Maier, Forne is considered a strong contender, given his impressive track record in the sport.

The Godzone race challenges participants to navigate through approximately 650 kilometers of rugged New Zealand terrain over a span of five days. Teams engage in a variety of activities including trekking, mountain biking, packrafting, kayaking, and canyoning. Competitors typically endure extreme fatigue, often surviving on just two to three hours of sleep per night. The physical and mental challenges of this race push athletes to their limits, showcasing the endurance required in adventure racing.

Forne’s remarkable career is underscored by his dominance in the Godzone series. Since the event began in 2012, he has been part of the winning team in ten out of eleven editions, only falling short in 2017. His experience is complemented by his impressive navigation skills, which he attributes to his engineering background. Forne has a unique ability to visualize complex routes, a skill that proves invaluable during races.

“I find mentally during racing it’s a motivating thing because you’ve always got something to think about or concentrate on,” Forne shared in an interview. His passion for navigation is a key aspect of his strategy, and he has honed this skill over many years of competing.

Forne, who has lived in Queenstown with his wife Emily and their two children for the past decade, acknowledges the challenges of preparing for the upcoming race. With a busy schedule overseeing a house build and caring for his children, he admits that his training regimen has not been as rigorous as in previous years. “You’re always a mixture of excited and slightly apprehensive,” he says, reflecting on his mixed feelings about the race.

Despite the less-than-ideal preparation, Forne is confident in relying on his extensive experience. He recognizes the importance of maintaining mental resilience throughout the grueling five-day event. “One of the key things is not to focus on the finish too much,” he advises. Instead, he emphasizes taking each leg of the race step by step, celebrating small victories along the way.

This year’s race features a notable lineup, with Forne racing alongside accomplished female teammates. Hart, a seven-time Godzone winner, brings a wealth of experience, while Maier adds further strength to the team. As they prepare for the challenges of Marlborough’s wild terrain, the dynamics within the team will be crucial to their success.

Forne’s strategy involves careful management of sleep and teamwork. He believes that while some teams might skimp on sleep to gain an advantage, the benefits of adequate rest far outweigh the risks associated with sleep deprivation. “Too little sleep detriments your performance and decision-making,” he cautions, drawing from his own experiences in past races.

As the race approaches, Forne remains focused on the task at hand, eager to navigate the demanding route ahead. “I don’t have any particular abiding goals,” he admits, reflecting on his journey in adventure racing. “The key thing is to feel you’ve raced well.”

With his eyes set on securing an eleventh title at Godzone, Chris Forne is ready to embrace the challenges that await him. As he prepares to chart his course through the rugged landscapes of Marlborough, the adventure racing community watches with anticipation, eager to witness the next chapter in this athlete’s storied career.