Made for Extreme Adventure – Nicolette Griffioen Takes on Patagonman

When South African trail star Nicolette Griffioen dreams big, she doesn’t just chase those dreams – she races them down in one of the wildest places on Earth. In our latest issue, Nicolette shares her unforgettable experience racing Patagonman, one of the world’s most extreme triathlons, set deep in Chilean Patagonia.

Think snow-capped Andean peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and a 226km course that demands everything an athlete has to give.

Her story begins not with ambition, but curiosity – an unexpected race lottery entry and a chance to explore the wilds of South America. From wild camping through untouched landscapes to standing on the deck of a ferry in the icy darkness of race morning, Nicolette invites readers into every rugged, raw, and remarkable moment of her Patagonman journey.

The 3.8km fjord swim, 180km cycle along the Carretera Austral, and 42.2km trail run through pristine wilderness are just part of what makes this event so unique. The rest? It’s the solitude, the scenery, and the sheer mental toughness needed to finish – let alone finish 2nd woman and 10th overall.

Her race report is more than a recap – it’s an ode to what draws endurance athletes to the edge of the map in search of something more. If you've ever wondered what it's like to stand on the bow of the “boat of no return” or push through the Patagonian wind with only willpower and waterfalls to keep you going, this piece is your answer.

📖 Read the full story in our latest issue and discover why Patagonman is more than a race – it’s a rite of passage. Click Here for the latest edition of RUN Magazine. Or in store at your favourite retailer.