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.
-
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. -
-
Photo Galleries
Big Game, Big Crowd
The annual Dakota Marker game brought thousands to Brookings.
Bursts of Color
Fall color is at its peak in the Black Hills. Photo by John Mitchell
Lemmon: Our Cowboy Capital
Real cowboys don't brag, but if they did, they'd have a lot to say about Lemmon.
Huron's Marvelous Murals
Huron is adorned with art that celebrates Beadle County's ag heritage.
Hill City's Trees and Trains
Tinsel, lights and holly add holiday luster to the trains of Hill City.
$29 for 1 Year |
 |
Comments