January 21, 2011 (Vancouver B.C.) – Andreas Hestler of team Rocky Mountain Bikes/BC Bike Race is headed down to Patagonia Chile to undertake the 3rd annual running of the Trans Andes Challenge Jan 24- 29. The Trans Andes Challenge is a 6-day mountain bike race, which takes place in the rugged mountains of the stunning Patagonian Andes. Starting approximately 1000 kilometers South of Santiago the race will begin at the host resort of Huilo Huilo and finish in the town of Pucon.

Along with Hestler, notable other riders competing include; Mary McConneloug and Michael Broderick in the open mixed, Jason Sager, Ben Sonntag, Blake Harlan, Marty Lazarski and Neil Kindree in the open men

Andreas will also be hosting a Chilean episode of the Ride Guide covering both the race and the country. The work on this segment began back in November and with the completion of the Trans Andes will provide another excellent addition to the already extensive global library of Ride Guide TV.

When asked about the early season adventure Hestler said “well it’s 10 degrees at home in North Vancouver (50F) and summer in Chile approx 27 (80F), why wouldn’t I be there. This is a great opportunity to travel, see an amazing country, do an amazing event and get some early season miles in.”

With over 15 countries represented the Trans Andes represents a very international race. Race organizer Juan Pablo Santiagos a former DH World Cup racer has a clear vision of what he is creating here, the Trans Andes is a professional event done with the participants experience in mind.

For more information on the Trans Andes click here.

For more information on Ride Guide click here.

For more information on BC Bike Race click here.

Start list HERE.