The Amazing Race 13 premiered on SABC3 last night (4 October) at 20h00, with Los Angeles as the starting line.
Teams raced to Salvador, Brazil and after a religious ceremony that involved puffing up 53 steps, crackpot beekeepers Anita and Arthur were the first to get the chop. Thankfully. If they'd stayed they'd have assaulted us next week by ripping all their clothes off. There's no doubt in my mind that they're nudists.
As always happens at the start of a race, it's impossible to know who's who while they're rucksacking around so here's a look at the 11/now 10 teams:
Aja Benton and Ty WhiteLong Distance Dating Couple
This long distance dating couple is looking for an opportunity to be together for an extended period of time. They've been dating for nine months, living in two separate cities and the longest time they've spent together was last Christmas for two weeks.
They feel that the Race will help them determine if they can truly handle living together on a daily basis.
Andrew Lappitt and Dan HonigFraternity Brothers
Life couldn't be any better for these fraternity brothers. Andrew and Dan met while attending Arizona State University and the last four years have been filled with good times.
Some of the Teams have referred to them as "Team Superbad."
These two say they can talk their way in or out of anything by cracking jokes and keeping the mood light. Look for them to always keep things entertaining in their own special way.
Anita and Arthur Jones (Eliminated, yay)Married Beekeepers
Anita and Arthur can't wait to make the Race their next big adventure. This energetic couple is open hearted and free spirited. They make and sell their own honey and recently purchased an organic blueberry farm.
They have known each other for over 26 years and have been married for almost 14 years. Their blended family and children are the most important part of their lives.
Anthony Marotta and Stephanie KacandesDating Couple
Back together again after a year-long break-up, Anthony says he will propose to Stephanie if they make it through the Race.
Even though they've overcome many of their differences, their constant bickering would suggest otherwise.
Kelly Crabb and Christy CookDivorcees
Kelly and Christy are best friends that will not settle for second best. These two go-getters have been through a lot in the last year and want to prove that they can overcome anything.
Neither has traveled extensively outside of the U.S., but both are eager to change that.
This team's drive, experience and competitiveness may provide them with the opportunity to see all the world has to offer.
Ken and Tina GreeneSeparated Couple
This married couple is looking to reconnect on the Race. They've been separated and living on different coasts for several months and are ready to put their marriage back together.
Ken, an ex-NFL star who played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the San Diego Chargers, was also a college football assistant coach. He is currently a home builder. He is competitive, athletic and says his problem-solving skills will help them win the race.
He thinks Tina is too controlling and should relax a bit more, but anticipates the Race will help them learn to appreciate their differences.
Marisa Axelrod and Brooke JacksonFriends
These charming southern belles are best friends and are up for any challenge. They want to prove to the world that they're not just cute blondes and that they can be athletic and fierce competitors.
Mark Yturralde and Bill HahlerBest Friends
These comic book aficionados are determined to be the most strategic team ever to compete in the Race.
Mark and Bill, friends for over 23 years, first met at a science fiction club and have been bonding over their love for comics and games ever since. Mark says that he "wears geek like a badge of honor."
Nick and Starr SpanglerBrother and Sister
This brother/sister team will stop at nothing to win the Race. Both are extremely driven and competitive, especially with one another. They admit to being over-zealous when a prize is involved - even if it's only bragging rights.
They're excited to use this to their advantage on the race.
Terence Gerchberg and Sarah LeshnerNewly Dating Couple
This Team is determined to prove to themselves they belong together. They are well traveled and both enjoy physical activities and pushing each other to succeed.
Either way, this adventure will definitely be a journey that could make or break them.
Toni and Dallas ImbimboMother and Son
Toni and Dallas have always been there for each other and will let nothing come between them.
These two are hoping the Race will provide them with some quality family time they've been missing out on since Dallas has been away at college - and maybe they can win a million dollars along the way.