Primal Quest athletes descending on Tahoe

Primal Quest starts Wednesday or Thursday on the South Shore. The endurance racers do not know the start date or time, or where they are going for more than 450 miles.

This nonstop, unsupported race attracts adventurers from as far away as New Zealand.

Before the race begins, participants receive a sparse schedule and comprehensive packing list. Course details, including the start time, are selectively released as the event progresses. Coed teams of four will have to use advanced navigation skills to determine their route while trekking, mountain biking, flat water paddling, river paddling, ascending and rappelling, and caving.

Barton Health has donated all the supplies and will offer medical expertise throughout the course. Approximately 35 doctors, nurses, and medical personnel from across the United States are volunteering to provide care 24 hours a day.

Participants must carry their own food and gear. At each transition area, teams may seek medical attention and collect personal supply caches and equipment. The racers do not know the number of transitions or where they are located.

Eleven teams will be participating in the event.  The first teams are expected to finish in four days and the course closes on the ninth day.