New Zealand’s Adventure Racer Chris Forne Eyes Eleventh Title

Chris Forne, a seven-time world champion in adventure racing, is set to compete in the Godzone expedition race in Marlborough starting on November 27. Based in Queenstown, New Zealand, Forne will lead Team Rab alongside Sam Clark, Sophie Hart, and Simone Maier as they aim for a strong performance in this grueling event.

The Godzone race spans approximately 650 kilometers, incorporating various activities such as trekking, mountain biking, packrafting, kayaking, and canyoning. Teams will operate on minimal sleep, often limited to just two to three hours per night, as they navigate through challenging terrain over five days. Forne, who has achieved remarkable success in the event, stands as a favorite, particularly after the retirement of fellow competitor Nathan Fa’avae, a legendary figure in New Zealand’s adventure racing community.

Since its inception in 2012, the Godzone race has grown in prominence, with Forne’s team winning ten of the eleven editions. He was narrowly defeated in Chapter 6 in Queenstown in 2017, marking his only loss in this prestigious competition. Forne’s track record solidifies his status as one of the sport’s best, with additional accolades in the rogaine discipline and the Eco Challenge Fiji.

As a competitor, Forne emphasizes the importance of navigation, a skill he has honed throughout his career. He uses traditional maps and compasses to plot routes that are revealed mere hours before the race starts.

“Navigation is a big factor in my enjoyment of the race,” Forne told the Star-Times. “It keeps my mind engaged. If I wasn’t navigating, I think I might get bored.”

Despite his extensive experience, Forne acknowledges the challenges leading up to this year’s race. Balancing family responsibilities and supervising a house build has limited his training time. Still, he remains optimistic about leveraging his experience during the competition.

“You’re always a mix of excited and slightly apprehensive,” he noted about the race week. “The preparation hasn’t been as focused as in previous years, but I’m healthy, and that’s what matters.”

Mental resilience is a critical aspect of Godzone racing. Forne recalls his first experience with expedition racing, noting the psychological challenges faced during long stretches of competition. He advises focusing on short-term goals rather than the finish line to maintain motivation.

“Living in the moment is essential,” he explained. “When you’re feeling exhausted, it’s counterproductive to think about how much longer you have to go.”

This year, Team Rab will feature a unique mix, with two female teammates in a race traditionally dominated by male competitors. Both Hart and Maier bring impressive credentials to the team, with Hart being a seven-time Godzone winner and Maier a multiple champion in her own right.

“The team dynamic is all about balance,” Forne remarked, emphasizing the importance of teamwork to manage the physical and mental demands of the race.

In preparation for the challenges ahead, Forne’s strategy includes racing through the first night to acclimatize to the stress and then banking short sleep periods. He believes that a little extra sleep can enhance overall performance, countering the common misconception among racers that less sleep equates to better results.

“Sleep deprivation can lead to poor decision-making,” Forne cautioned. “I’ve experienced minor hallucinations in the past, and it’s crucial to manage sleep effectively.”

As the race approaches, Forne is aware of his relative anonymity despite his accolades. He embraces it, stating, “I relish being slightly unknown. I enjoy the challenge without the pressure of public recognition.”

Looking ahead, Forne remains motivated by the thrill of competition rather than the pursuit of titles. “I don’t have any specific goals anymore,” he shared. “What matters is racing well and having a good experience.”

With the Godzone competition on the horizon, Forne’s focus is clear: he is determined to secure his eleventh title while navigating the rugged landscapes of Marlborough. As he prepares for this monumental challenge, he reflects on the journey ahead, ready to plot his course through both the physical and mental trials that await.