Two Northlanders, Ryan Baxter and Calvin Ball, are set to tackle the challenging Yukon 1000, touted as the longest and most arduous paddle race in the world.
This grueling race covers approximately 1000 miles (1600 km) through diverse Canadian and Alaskan landscapes, pushing teams to brave bear country, wildfires, and icy glacier-fed waters.
To finish within the nine-day cutoff, the duo must paddle nearly 18 hours each day, relying entirely on their self-sufficiency as they navigate the rugged terrain with all their equipment loaded onto their kayak.
In preparation for the race, Ball expressed that they had meticulously gone through their gear, ensuring everything was ready.
“[We’ve been] triple-checking it, repacking it, so haven’t quite been able to feel really excited, but we’re just starting that now,” he mentioned.
The race offers varied landscapes; the initial leg features mountains and stunning blue waters typical of Canada, transitioning into flatter terrain with multiple river channels as they enter Alaska.
Ball described this shift: “It slows right down and then a lot of sediment comes into the water too, so it gets quite dark and grey. We have to bear through that for a few days to the finish line.”
While wildlife encounters, including bears, are a common concern, the competitors recognize that the greatest risk may not stem from wildlife at all.
Baxter pointed out, “People often think bears and stuff like that, but to be honest, it’s probably hypothermia, if we get stuck in the water. It’s glacier-fed, and it’s quite cold; if we can’t get out within half an hour.”
Another unexpected threat is the possibility of wildfires along the course.
Baxter shared insights from their recent race briefing, where they learned about a significant wildfire expected around day three of the race.
“I say it casually, probably because we haven’t done it yet, so I might not be as brave afterward,” he remarked.
The pair, who used to be flatmates, have trained relentlessly to prepare for this unique race.
However, Baxter admitted that finding effective training methods has been challenging due to the unpredictable nature of sleep deprivation they will encounter during the race.
“It’s pretty hard to train for in terms of the sleep deprivation and getting four hours sleep max, if you’re lucky, constant day on day. The training’s been pretty monotonous to be honest – it’s been tough,” he shared.
Despite the rigor, Baxter noted the enjoyment they have found in the process, albeit with its taxing demands, including constant kayaking, running, and gym work.
In light of the fatigue from their training, Ball mentioned they plan to bring along some music as a mental escape during the race.
“We’ve got it as a bit of a back-up. We’ve downloaded a few different playlists and podcasts, but ideally, we’re taking in all the sights and sounds around us,” he said.
With 18 hours of paddling each day, he acknowledged the need for a break from monotony: “You’ve got to have something to basically switch your mind off.”
Baxter explained their musical selections include a mix of genres, noting, “Depending on the mood, we’ve got a bit of New Zealand, Shapeshifter, reggae, even some country and then a bit of heavier rock as well. We don’t have enough battery to play it all day, so it’ll just be more of a treat.”
While music serves as a luxury, Baxter highlighted that their most essential treat lies in a practical item: anti-chafe cream, emphasizing its importance for their journey.
The Yukon 1000 culminates at the Alaska Pipeline Bridge and tracks the historical route of the Klondike Gold Rush.
As they embark on this monumental adventure, Baxter and Ball will also raise funds through Give a Little to sponsor a Northland teenager’s participation in Outward Bound, blending their paddling challenge with a commitment to community support.
Last year, Kiwis Sophie Hart and Nathan Fa’avae completed the race in an impressive six days and 23 minutes.
image source from：rnz
