When more than 5,000 people turned up on a chilly morning in Staffordshire, England late last month to take on what is billed as the toughest race in the world, there was one Croat amongst them.

New Zealand-born Croat Vincent (Vice) Radonich, who resides in London, could possibly be the first Croat to complete the grueling course described as the safest most dangerous mental/physical 4 hours of pain in the world. The annual race, which is in its 24th year, is so tough that up to a third of all competitors fail to finish each year and it has even claimed two fatalities. Competitors are put through their paces on an eight-mile assault course through thick mud and water obstacles, facing risks of burns, cuts, dehydration, hypothermia, and even electrocution during the challenge.

Radonich (far left), with team-mates on the morning of the race

Despite minimal preparation Radonich was happy to come away unscathed from the race. “I am happy that I finished the race injury free, considering that I only had 4-5 runs in preparation,” said Makarska’s favourite son.

Radonich’s next project will be a little less life-threatening. He plans to launch SailWeek Croatia, a sailing company focused on sailing holidays in Croatia, providing an experience that will educate tourists about the wonders of Croatian culture, food and wine all whilst partying on the beautiful Croatian coast.