Loreto hosts annual raft race across the Amazon river
  
Lima, Sep. 25 (ANDINA). The 12th International Raft Race across the Amazon river started Thursday with a tour of the main sights of Iquitos, capital of Loreto region. Some 48 local and international teams will compete in the races.
According to the Regional Trade and Tourism Director Mauro Guimet, this year's race has attracted many competitive teams and riders from all over the world, including the US, Canada, Israel and Iran.


As part of the event, teams were escorted  to Nauta city, where local authorities had organized a welcome party for them


Then, participants headed to Pescadores island, where they’re given the necessary tools to prepare their rafts.  


Today they cross the final stretch into the town of Tamshiyacu, where attendees will be able to enjoy an artistic show,” Guimet told Andina news agency. 


The awarding ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, the final day of the race, at 15:00 hours (local time).


Members include all competitors, supporters and friends of the Great Amazon River Raft Race, Iquitos, Perú - a grueling raft race of 112 miles over 3 days on the Amazon River on team-made balsa log rafts.  


(END) VVS/JOT/RGG/RMB