Saturday Video: Défis Kayak Race, Guadeloupe
Every so often you hear about these crazy thrill-seeking adventurers who, for reasons known only to them, attempt to trans-navigate the Atlantic Ocean alone. I’m not talking about people with good sense enough to make the attempt by sailboat either. I mean looney brave souls bent on making the journey by kayak or canoe.
People like Englishman Peter Bray.
His 1st attempt in 2000 didn’t go so well, but he eventually becomes the first person to complete the journey traveling against the current from west to east.
People like Hungarian Gábor Rakonczay.
He’s trying to accomplish the feat right now, sailing east to west in an attempt to become the first person to ever make the trip completely alone without the aid of any logistical support.
There have been countless others, of course, each meeting varying levels of success (Here’s a great rundown on Gadling.com), but whether or not you think these guys are nuts, it’s hard not to be inspired by their efforts and achievements.
Now, if you’re looking for a less treacherous, yet still challenging way to put that inspiration into practice, then the Défis Kayak Race in Guadeloupe may be for you!
Held annually since 2006, the two-stage, two-day race pits an international field of kayakers versus each other and the open sea surrounding Guadeloupe. As you can see in the video above, it’s equal parts grueling and fun, with the payoff being a share of US$20,000 in prize money, plus a bunch of other nice freebies – hotel accommodations, rental car, jet ski rental, etc.
The 2012 edition of the Défis Kayak Race is slated for April 21-22.
Related Posts
Saturday Video: A Petit Peek at Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe
Saturday Video: More Guadeloupe Per Your Request…
