images/stories/content/2009-03-05_Breathing-in-morocco/2009-03-05_1.jpgTeam Breathe Magazine Canada, led by Harper Forbes and Denise Rispolie and Team Breathe Magazine USA led by Joe Moerschbaecher and Julia Pollock will be representing North America

 at the 2009 Transmarocaine in Morocco. In addition to Canada and the US the Transmarocaine will play host to competitors from France, Belgium and Morocco.

From March 9 to 13 competitors will test their endurance over 5 stages from Ouarzazate to Tahanaoute through the Atlas Mountains, a stretch of mountains that sit across the northern stretch of Africa. The highest peak, Jbel Toubkal, in Southwest Morocco, stands a 4,167 metres tall. 

Ouarzazate, the Hollywood of Morocco, is the start point for this 5 day journey. Yet despite the stunning scenery displayed in films like Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator, both produced in Ouarzazate, Transmarociane competitors will be witness to the raw beauty of Morocco while trekking, mountain biking, traversing rope crossings, canoeing, and orienteering their way through the course. Although Moerschbaecher was pleased that horseback riding was excluded, Pollock was disappointed that camel riding was also excluded, a nostalgic throw-back to Eco Challenge Morocco when competitors began their epic journey on camel. 

The terrain is expected to be tough and temperatures are expected to be around 20 degrees Celsius, while in the snow-capped mountains temperatures are expected to dip below zero. 
Forbes and Moerschbaecher, both very experienced endurance athletes that have competed in a host of high profile races, some of which have included Untamed New England and Primal Quest, are expected to place among the top teams. 

For race updates please visit www.transmarocaine.org