The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition returned to our screens on Wednesday evening, catapulting eleven celebrities and their close ones right into the heart of the bustling city of New Delhi.
Known for its sweltering heat, frenetic energy, and thrumming streets filled with 32 million inhabitants, New Delhi was a striking contrast from their luxurious lifestyles.
Kicking off the intense competition, participants had to navigate through the city’s streets in Tuk Tuks, a challenge amplified by the need to source specific items in the city’s labyrinthine markets. Contestants were given a choice in the Detour: either memorise intricate wedding attire for the Wedding Dish challenge or navigate the city’s busiest market to shop for five ingredients under the Chicken Dish challenge.
“It was hot. Like real hot,” aptly captured the sentiment of the day. Host Darren McMullen couldn’t hide his exhilaration amidst the disorder. On the other hand, King George displayed unease, particularly towards persistent street sellers. Bec Judd, representing many, wished for a cool iced latte to beat the heat.
A budding alliance formed between George, his sister Pam, and Olympian Jana Pittman with her son, Cor. But this alliance was short-lived as Jana made a swift exit, turning George into an adversary. Ben Gillies and Jackie Gillies faced multiple setbacks in the Wedding Dish challenge, learning the hard way that, in Indian fashion, “less” isn’t always favourable. Despite succumbing to heat stroke, Pam, with some strong encouragement from George, pushed forward.
Harry Jowsey and Teddy Briggs, more accustomed to modern conveniences like Uber Eats, surprisingly took the lead in the Chicken Dish challenge. Emma Watkins, racing alongside her sister Hayley, showed agility and determination. Fashion influencers Bec Judd and Kate Twigley faced their own set of challenges as the scorching 40-degree heat affected Kate. Meanwhile, Dane Simpson and Bow Simpson, despite their camaraderie, grappled with the physical demands of the tasks.
The next task demanded linguistic prowess as participants tried to grasp the local language while mingling with children at a pool. Alli Simpson couldn’t resist sneaking glances at Harry, to her mother Angie’s amusement. Harry and Teddy were quick to ace the phrase challenge, while comedians Peter Rowsthorn and Frankie took a detour, engaging in cricket banter with the locals.
Armed with their newfound linguistic skills, teams had to instruct their Tuk Tuk drivers to a religious landmark, where Beau awaited. A delay cost the leading team, Harry and Teddy, their top spot, making way for Darren and Tristan to land first.
Unfortunately for Dane and Bow Simpson, their journey ended here as they were the first pair to be eliminated.
Stay tuned: next episode promises more thrills, with iconic views of the Taj Mahal, as the celebrities grapple with fatigue, overwhelming heat, and a looming monsoon.
