The Mission to Seafarer (MTS), a globally recognized organization, stands at the forefront of providing support and care to seafarers. Their commitment to seafarers’ welfare aligns perfectly with Travel Cue’s values and goals. Eager to promote their cause, my team and I flew to Japan to take up the challenge of the 2023 Mission To Seafarer’s Adventure Race.
In May 2023, the adventure race that aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by seafarers and their families gathered over 50 thrill-seeking participants of different fitness levels to conquer a two-day exhilarating trekking, running, and challenging activities against the stunning springtime backdrop of Mount Fuji and the picturesque Suruga Bay. With two levels of participation, the event ensured everyone could push their limits and achieve personal goals – from seasoned athletes seeking an intense challenge to enthusiasts embracing the spirit of achievement, every participant found their place amidst the vast mountainous region.
A ROAD LESS TAKEN
To say that it was exciting and memorable would be an understatement. For me, the Mission To Seafarer Japan Adventure Race was an extraordinary experience. Spread over two days, the course was physically demanding, with uphill climbs, downhills, and rugged terrain. Rain and fog on the first day added to the challenge, making navigation and maintaining momentum difficult. We even faced an additional 5-minute squat challenge midway through the course. The second day brought steeper slopes, requiring ropes and chains to ascend.
Despite these challenges, our team persevered and completed the race. It demanded immense mental and physical strength, and I am immensely proud of our accomplishment. Participating in this adventure race was no easy feat, but it showcased our physical fitness, mental toughness, and resilience.
Take it from my teammates!
“I had an amazing time at the MTS Japan Adventure experience, where I got to explore the stunning scenery of Izu, Japan, with my team.
The first day was a grueling trek through the forested hills and valleys, where we encountered steep slopes, narrow trails, and rocky terrain. We had to use our navigation skills and teamwork to find our way to the checkpoints and avoid getting lost. The highlight of the day was fog-covered peaks that gave us respite from the heat and the exhausting trail.
The second day turned out to be even harder. The most difficult part of the experience was probably the steep stretch, where we had to haul ourselves uphill using a metal chain for several hundred meters to reach the top. We were exhausted, sore, and thirsty, but we pushed ourselves to the limit and cheered each other on. We felt a huge sense of accomplishment and pride when we crossed the line and received our medals.
The experience was challenging, exhilarating, and unforgettable. I learned a lot about myself and my teammates, and I made some new friends along the way. I would highly recommend this event to anyone who loves adventure and nature.”
-Neeraj Yeswant, Chief Technology Officer
“The preparation, training, and build-up started around six months prior to the event, and of course, at that time, six months seems like a long way off. I had initially been planning to participate with my team in the longer and more challenging of the two courses but decided to participate in the shorter course. With the benefit of hindsight, I was happy to have made this decision. I pride myself in being fairly fit as a former competitive rower and triathlete, but I was a little taken by surprise at the arduousness of the two days’ courses, though admittedly we were given ample warning by the organizers!
Day one was the longer of the two and consisted of up and down hills over rough terrain, rocks, and slippery surfaces. To keep our concentration levels intact, the many wooden steps we encountered were each of a different height and depth, meaning we had to concentrate constantly – for fear of taking a tumble – precisely where to place each footstep. The landscape and views, despite alas, the limited view of Mt. Fuji, were worth the effort regardless of the foggy, wet, and fairly cold conditions.
Day two was very different given the heavy rain in the preceding night and the rise in temperature to a 30 degree Celsius humid day. The terrain was very different, being steep ascents and descents over very muddy and slippery rocks with frequent requirements to pull ourselves up the climbs using chains. Descending was equally precarious, but happily, we managed to complete the 2nd day with a cold beer at the beach finish line, which was akin to an oasis in the desert.
As my first trip to Japan, I was pleasantly surprised by the beauty of the landscape of the Izu peninsula, which is firmly on the list of places to revisit. Great camaraderie, and delighted to have raised so much money, together with the other participants for this worthwhile cause. I would happily participate again but next time with some mountain training in the training regime.”
-David Kinnersley, Client Partnership Manager
THE PATH BEYOND
Beyond the excitement and camaraderie, the 2023 MTS Adventure Race provided an avenue for networking and team building within the maritime industry. Key decision makers from around the globe seized the opportunity to enhance communication and forge valuable connections. It hosted a Gala dinner that provided the perfect setting for celebrating triumphs and strengthening professional bonds, reviving the face-to-face interactions that were dearly missed during the pandemic.
By participating in this race, Travel Cue amplified The Mission to Seafarer’s message and supported their cause on a broader scale. Expanding our “Duty of Care” beyond travel services, Travel Cue’s participation reflects our unwavering commitment to seafarers’ welfare and fosters a sense of community and support.
The success of the event highlighted the significance of fostering collaboration and camaraderie in extraordinary settings. Standing alongside The Mission to Seafarer, Travel Cue proudly contributes to improving the lives of seafarers worldwide. Together, we continue to nurture and care for these brave individuals who connect our world, ensuring their wellbeing and happiness throughout their extraordinary journeys.
Contributing Author
A seasoned professional with 11 years navigating the waters of the marine industry and travel management, Pauline Cala-or brings a depth of expertise to her role as Client Relationship Manager at Travel Cue Management (Philippines). Her diverse background in other industries – from importing and retail to restaurants and event management – provides her with a unique perspective in her craft.
FAS Maritime 
Leave a comment