Just as the teams started to arrive in Huancayo, the launch pad for the first ever Mototaxi Junket, the municipal authorities arranged a press conference hosted by the Mayor himself Mr. Freddy Arana. The Mayor and town hall team invited all the regional media to introduce the Junket and welcome the adventure into town.
He introduced the three-wheeled escapade, saying how fantastic is it that teams put so much effort into fundraising for charities working in the countries where the Junket takes place. Then he went on to say how excited everyone was to have adventurists travelling in from so many countries, 15 in all, and that he was glad that Huancayo would receive attention all over the world as a result of the teams taking part and launching from his city.
Mr Dan and Mr Tom explained the event to around 30 or so gathered journalists and answered questions about the selection of official charities and the nature of the beast. Of interest was the lack of any set route, professional drivers or any back up of any kind. Huancayo is generally known as the home of motosports in Peru and many were suprised and pleased that the Junket is in no way a race, but an adventure. The organisers explained there's no prize for arriving first and usually the teams that get the recognition are the ones that get themselves into (and out of) the most trouble along the way.
Carla Ratto, the wonderful lady in charge of many events and sports related goings on in Huancayo explained the events that are due to take place in the build up to the launch. (Originally the launch was due to happen on Sunday, but it was delayed, more coming on that!)
Now teams are getting used to the altitude and test driving of the mighty Mototaxis has begun.