TRAVERSE Issue 08 - October 2018 | Page 11

Maniacs In Romania R 2018 Red Bull Romaniacs omaniacs? What the hell is this? You’ll forever remember the first time you heard the name Romaniacs and the event it rep- resents, for Romaniacs is one of the most unique, challenging and toughest events you’ll ever see. Created in 2004 by Martin Freinademetz, Red Bull Ro- maniacs has evolved from a bunch of crazies taking part in a rallye to what is now regarded as the world’s toughest hard enduro rallye. Competitors from over 50 nations take part each year in the event that takes place over five days. The first day usu- ally in front of thousands of supporters during the inner city prologue. The following four days are held amongst the Southern Carpathian Mountains of the Sibiu region of Romania. This 600 plus kilometre race is not for the faint hearted … it’s tough, it’s the toughest race of its type any- where on earth. Martin Freinademetz was a world class snowboarder, in fact one of the best; world champion twice, four world titles and an Olympian, yet it was his passion for extreme enduro along with his wife, Sigi, that got the first Roma- Pic - Predrag Vuckovich / Red Bull TRAVERSE 11