With their shabby backpacks and disintegrating clothes, travellers often see themselves as being able to brave the elements and endure whatever the world has to throw at them, but the Ironman contest in New Zealand may put this swaggering self confidence into context.
Amateur competitors are invited along to Lake Taupo, where they must complete a 2.5 mile swim, 110 miles by bike and 26 miles on foot – equivalent to the length of a marathon.
But for proving their mettle, visitors to the stunning location will be greeted by friendly locals who come out to support them on their gruelling journey.
Organisers and safety officials parade the race course in case any of the competitors feel unwell and there are a number of talks beforehand to teach ways of dealing with the challenge.
Lake Taupo, on the North Island, is a massive tourist attraction due to its thrilling environment of rock formations waterfalls and water sports activities.
The Huka Falls is the most popular natural tourist attraction in the country and not far away are the Craters of the Moon, a geothermal area where hot spas and springs will help to soothe your competitive wounds.
The Ironman contest begins on March 3rd.
In
InsureandGo's backpacking insurance policy, 40 adventure sports are automatically covered, including bungee jumping and white water rafting.