As the last female gauntlet approaches, women on both teams fret about their possible departures—Kina especially. Although she has been captain for the duration of the challenge, Kina is apprehensive that if her team does not obtain victory, she will become a faint memory as a new chica takes the helm. A devoted Randy comforts his love with a few encouraging words.

<img src=http://www.realityreel.com/images/nick_pic_spot.jpg align=left> By Nick Ciletti
Reality Reel Media
03.18.06

At the challenge, members on each side scurry across a slippery metal beam and grab pictures from a zip cord above their heads. The goal is to make it to the side in the fastest possible time, without falling into the water. Both the Rookies and Veterans struggle, but at the conclusion, the Veterans arrive victorious, sending Kina to the gauntlet. Before the faithful competition, Kina has an emotional breakdown in the ladies’ room with fellow Rookie Jodi by her side. Although she appears to be mellow dramatic, Kina has a right to be upset—after all, she must choose between sending the weakest link on her team to gauntlet (Ibis,) who just so happens to be her best friend, or send someone she does not particularly care for, Jillian. Ultimately, Kina does not even give friend Ibis a second look and challenges Jillian to enter the gauntlet. After a ferocious gauntlet, Kina triumphs over Jillian, which puts a smile on the Veteran’s faces, knowing full well that the Rookies have just lost a key competitor. MJ remarks on his lack of faith in Ibis, stating that Kina better carry her across the finish line. Being in the captain position is difficult; grueling decisions like these must be made constantly. Did Kina do the right thing? Only the final mission will tell.