Sports

Alaskans set to compete in 444-mile Yukon River Quest

The 19th annual Yukon River Quest is on the horizon and will feature a record 96 teams, including three from Alaska.

The 444-mile race — which features races for solo stand-up paddleboards, solo and tandem canoes, kayaks and voyageur canoes — goes from Whitehorse to Dawson City, Yukon.

The Yukon River Marathon Paddling Association says the race, which begins Wednesday, is the world's longest annual canoe and kayak race.

Among the Alaskans entered are the Eagle River tandem canoe team of Adam Jordan and Devin Humble, who according to their online biographies are in the race for two very different reasons. Jordan hopes to finish in "under 55 hours," while Humble aims to "stay awake."

Skagway mixed tandem canoe racers John O'Daniel, 65, and Denver Evans, 18, will bring a family bond to the Yukon. Evans' goal is "to finish with my grandpa and enjoy the amazing scenery of the Yukon."

A voyageur team comprised mostly of Skagway rowers will also compete.

The race features 234 paddlers hailing from 16 states, 13 countries and eight Canadian provinces and territories. Organizers say participation has risen in the last two years because of a surge in stand-up paddleboarding popularity.

The races begin at noon Wednesday, with competitors expected to finish between Friday afternoon and late Saturday night. Live tracking will be available at yukonriverquest.com.

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