Next week, California based British sea kayaker Sean Morley will attempt to break the record for the fastest circumnavigation of Canada’s Vancouver Island. The current record stands at 23 days and 10 hours for a single kayak set by Joe O’Blenis and 19 and a half days for a double kayak set by Kieron Tastagh and Jeff Norville, both in 2007.
Morley, who plans to take off next Monday, September 22nd, is going to attempt to complete the 700 mile journey in less than 18 days; he’s going to have to travel fast and light if he is to average his attempted 50 miles per day. But even if he paddles hard, the length of the journey is dependent on the weather — fortunately he’ll be wearing a Kokatat dry suit
“Vancouver Island can present some of the most challenging conditions a kayaker can face including fierce winds and huge waves off the notorious headlands of Cape Scott and the Brooks Peninsular, high surf and treacherous reefs guarding the remote beaches of the west coast and raging tidal rapids reaching speeds of 15knots in the myriad of channels separating the Vancouver Island from the mainland” says Sean.
You can check out Morley’s route plan here, and once he gets going you can track where he’s at here.
Congratulations, Sean!!! I knew you could do it. How sweet a good meal, shower, and clean bed will feel. Landing by candle light?
Greg (Arcata)