It was always going to be challenging.
GODZone Chapter 9 was the first New Zealand North Island edition of the world's largest expedition-length adventure.
When the active volcanic plateau and thermal region of Rotorua was announced as the host location at the end of Chapter 8, teams worldwide readied themselves for an adventure of a lifetime.
It was a scramble to gain a racing spot with a sell-out field of 95 team spots gone in less than 24 hours.
"Each year, it's a battle for teams to gain a slot, and it is the first
