Inaugurated in 2007, the highly innovative "MXR" was rapidly adopted by the AR community and, after an excellent 2008 showcasing the worlds top teams in a thrilling competition that drew worldwide media attention, looked likely to fulfill its initial 3-year mandate with ease, until the global economy decided otherwise.

Both Saab and Salomon, the erstwhile principal sponsors of the race, have in the light of recent economic events and in the context of evolving commercial strategies decided to refocus their involvement in the world of outdoor sports. The delay that seeking new sponsors will impose upon preparations for the 2009 event has convinced all involved parties to postpone next year's race and concentrate on 2010 as the best course of action. This will ensure an event in keeping with the already impressive achievements of this fledgling competition and provide the most effective means of maintaining the race's perennial existence on the international multisports scene.

In the mean time, races like the Abu Dhabi Adventure Challenge, also started in 2007, is a fine example that the sport has an undeniably long-term future as a promotional platform for commercial and institutional organisations.

Be assured, this is not goodbye just au revoir...