South Dakota Kayak Challenge
May 29, 2013
The last natural and wild stretch of the 2,300-mile Missouri River is a 75-mile corridor from Yankton to Sioux City but eagles and herons usually outnumber people along the river. That changes on a Saturday every May with the South Dakota Kayak Challenge. Started four years ago, the kayak (and canoe) race attracts more than a hundred adventurers to the scenic waterway. The challenge was held Saturday (May 25) despite overcast skies and a strong east wind. Photos by Bernie Hunhoff.
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A cottonwood stump served as a launching point for kayaker Matt Perkins of Meckling. -
Riverside Park in downtown Yankton serves as race headquarters. -
Kayaks of every shape and color are parked in the park, awaiting the 7 a.m. start time. -
Race organizers said 140 people registered to race in the fourth annual challenge. -
Jarrett Bies, the race organizer, says the race shows off the river's beauty. -
The racers include beginners, weekend river rats and avid racers who travel the country. -
There's a relaxed start to the race, even among the pros, because it's an 8 hour journey at the very least. Others paddle 15 hours before reaching Sioux City. -
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