2. East Wind

Country: Japan
Sponsor:Team Members: Masato Tanaka (C), Yoki Tanaka, Michitomo Yamakita, Machiko Nishii
Average Age: 33.25

    When East Wind’s team captain, Masato Tanaka, arrives in Punta Arenas this year, it will mark the beginning of his 5th consecutive Patagonian Expedition Race. In 2010, Tanaka overcame the difficulties of the course’s homage to the history of exploration to come in 7th. In 2011, he and his team battled through persistent rain to come in 5th. In 2012 and 2013, East Wind continued to refine its technique, expertly maneuvering through the uncharted wilderness to two 2nd place finishes. When asked about his team’s greatest strength, Tanaka’s answer is simple: “Navigation.” Throughout their competition history, Tanaka’s team has been notable for their consistently intelligent strategy and precise transitioning.

    Now, after a two-year hiatus, the PER is back. Joined by four-year teammate Yoki Tanaka, one-year teammate Michitomo Yamakita and newcomer Machiko Nishii, Masato Tanaka is seeking to replicate their previous success. Despite the increased expectations for returning teams, however, Tanaka feels no additional pressure. “Adventure racing teaches me the important things in life,” he said. He’s on a mission to bring those findings back home to his native Japan. Even after four years of learning amidst the fjords, glaciers and driving wind, Tanaka and company are coming back for another lesson.