About 240 paddlers have gathered for the 18th annual Yukon River Quest which runs 715 km from Whitehorse to Dawson in the northern territory of Yukon. It is said to be the longest race in the world involving canoes, kayaks and for the first time, stand up paddleboards.
Survival supplies mandatory
All participants are required to carry survival supplies in dry bags. While the weather is good now, the president of the association running the race says he hopes that will not lull participants into a false sense of security. Harry Kern says the weather can get nasty.
The race begins today and paddlers are expected to finish it in 55 hours or less, including a mandatory stop for rest. The top three teams in each category will share a prize of $35,000. There is no cash prize this year for paddleboarders.
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