In an unexpected turn of events during his quest to set a new speed record on New Zealand’s breathtaking Te Araroa Trail, Belgian ultrarunner Karel Sabbe encountered a serious challenge just days into his journey. Known for his impressive achievements in ultrarunning, including setting records on some of the toughest trails in the world, Sabbe’s latest adventure took a dangerous twist when his support crew was attacked by feral dogs.
Timing and Tenacity
Karel Sabbe began his 3,054 km journey along the picturesque Te Araroa Trail on January 16, aiming to break the current record of 49 days and 115 hours. Just four days into the run, while approximately 400 km along the trail in the Northland region, a pack of feral dogs attacked his crew. One unfortunate member of the team, Kobe Blondeel, was seriously injured, suffering a broken elbow after being bitten by one of the dogs. Luckily, local residents came to their aid, providing immediate medical assistance, allowing Blondeel to recover and rejoin Sabbe shortly after the incident.
A Trail of Challenges
The Te Araroa Trail, heralded for its stunning landscapes, winds through mountains, rivers, and beaches, making it both a challenging and beautiful undertaking. However, it is also known for problems with feral dogs, particularly in the Te Tai Tokerau region where they can pose a threat to travelers and local wildlife alike. These dogs have led the Department of Conservation to close certain trails temporarily.
Community Support
Despite the alarming dog attack, Karel Sabbe and his team have received overwhelming support from the local community. It’s clear that the people in the area are invested in showcasing their beautiful landscapes and helping those who attempt to traverse them. Sabbe’s capability and reputation have drawn attention, and many find excitement in following his journey. As he continues to run the trail, the country watches with bated breath, hoping he can achieve his goal.
A Proven Track Record
For those unfamiliar, Karel Sabbe is not new to the world of ultrarunning. At just 36 years old, he has achieved remarkable feats, including completing the 4,300 km Pacific Crest Trail in just 52 days and holding the record for the Appalachian Trail, which he completed in 41 days. Adding to this impressive list of achievements, he won the Big’s Backyard Ultra World Championship in 2020. His experience provides him with the skill and determination needed to face the challenges ahead.
What Lies Ahead
Sabbe’s journey is far from over, and he continues to press on towards Bluff, New Zealand, after overcoming the setback of the dog attack. With a strong resolve and the help of those around him, he is focused on completing this challenging run despite everything. His scheduled return flight is still set for February 21, but he’s hoping to arrive back home having made history. His story is an inspiring reminder of the challenges and surprises that come with exploring the great outdoors, and the importance of community support during tough times.