In spring 2026, German Rainer Behrendt and Dutchman Jan Bongers set out to drive the Pan-American Highway from Tierra del Fuego to Alaska in just 100 days. Their Porsche Cayenne carried them more than 40,000 kilometers through 15 countries—and a message far beyond the journey itself.
Inspired by the death of Behrendt’s mother-in-law from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the longtime friends turned their expedition into a fundraising and awareness campaign dubbed “Race against ALS.”
Starting in Ushuaia, the pair headed north through Patagonia and the Andes, crossing salt flats, deserts and mountain passes approaching 5,000 meters. Both travelers and machine were tested: Bongers suffered altitude sickness, while thin mountain air sent the Cayenne Diesel into limp mode for nearly two weeks before technicians in Lima restored it.
The journey continued through Ecuador, Colombia and Central America, where mechanical challenges were matched by memorable encounters. Local Porsche Club members repeatedly welcomed the travelers, offering assistance and an unusually personal window into the countries they crossed.
After shipping the Cayenne around the impassable Darién Gap, Behrendt and Bongers continued through Central America and Mexico before entering the United States. Stops in California included the Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles and Laguna Seca, followed by a push north through Canada.
In June, they crossed the Arctic Circle and tackled Alaska’s Dalton Highway to Deadhorse, completing their journey at the continent’s northern extreme.
For Behrendt, reaching Alaska fulfilled a lifelong ambition while transforming personal loss into purpose. Along the route, strangers affected by ALS donated money, shared their stories and supported the campaign.
The 100-day drive eventually ended, but Behrendt said the mission would not. The pair intend to continue raising awareness and funds for ALS research long after the Cayenne has returned home.
Above contents © 2026 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG reviewed and edited by Rex McAfee , @rexmcafee 🏁
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