On Sunday, December 1, 2024, the Aysén region in southern Chile witnessed the fifth edition of the Patagonman Xtreme Triathlon.
Billed as one of the most extreme triathlons in the world, Patagonman 2024 had participants from 45 countries. The limited capacity event had 300 registered competitors. Of these, 182 boarded the ferry for the swim start and 159 reached the finish line.
Athletes braved the 12.2°C waters of the Aysén Fjord, cycled through the landscapes of the Carretera Austral, and ran toward General Carrera Lake, ringing the bell that symbolizes the end each athlete’s journey.
The day was marked by challenging currents during the swim. There were cold and windy conditions on the bike course, although participants were treated to ‘a spectacularly sunny run’.
The route featured additional challenges, including sections of gravel on the bike course and a river crossing during the run segment. The infamous Aysén winds also played a role on the day.
The men’s champion at Patagonman 2024 was Josiah Middaugh (USA) with a time of 09:52:35, while the women’s champion was Caroline Livesay (UK), 11:02:54. She became the first athlete to win the race twice.
The event also had an impact on the local community, attracting over 800 visitors who were expected to stay in Aysén for at least a week, generating an estimated US$2 million in regional tourism benefit.
Patagonman founder Ignacio Valdivieso said ” Patagonman not only challenges athletes but also showcases the unique beauty of the Aysén Region to the world.
“It exemplifies how sport can transform communities and unite people beyond economic, social, political, and cultural differences, creating lasting bonds among participants that transcend the event itself.”
