Expeditions 

Also, Jeff and I will be hoping to raise awareness and funds for a couple of charities.  If you care to donate, please see the Jeff's expedition page below.

Jeff will be continueing this year with one of his long time students.  I, for one, will be following him along the way.

Jeff's Norway Expedition Page

The very generous support from around the industry has been fantastic and I have to public thank them.

Kokatat

For the 2nd go at this Kokatat has generously offered to sponsor us.  Jeff was already a sponsored paddler, this year I'll join the ranks with a new drysuit, pfd, and insulating layers.  My most sincere thanks to the good folks at Kokatat, Michael, Lisa, and Suz!

Impex Kayaks

Quite literally, Impex Kayaks made this trip happen.  Not only did they build a boat for me (a special Force 5 customized for me and trip, but in a way, any customer could get), they shipped it and my expedition gear to England!  I personally saw the boat at the shop in Canada--Brandie and her crew were fantastic.  This boat is excellent.

Joe and Ferd were also unbelievable in their support and encouragement, jumping right in there to make this happen.  Thanks Impex

Werner Paddles

When choosing paddles for a trip this demanding how could I choose anything other than Werner?  I'll be using a straight and a bent shaft Cyprus, and I'm in love with that blade!  But honestly, the blades wasn't the only reason, Danny and folks at Werner are fantastic, they've believed in me and championed this effort.  Werner is a company I'm proud to be part of the team!

SeaMonkeys

This is a dedicated "Clan" of Sea Kayakers and I've been honored to work with many of them.  When I approached Bill about sponsorship on some level he immediately went into action and before I new it,  a very welcomed check was on the way.  While getting the right gear, was crucial, this kind of financial support is also critically important.  From airline tickets, to food purchases, to ferry fees, etc, this kind of undertaking takes quite a bit to accomplish, and for a regular sea kayaking guy, it would be impossible without the generosity and support of so many wonderful friends!  Thank you so much...


Immersion Research

Even though most of their budget went this year to the "Vacation from Hell" and my good friends at Sweetwater Kayaks, Roger was generous enough to be sure I had excellent thermals and the right sprayskirt.   Thanks Roger

Rutabaga

One of the most delightful surprises of this effort, the wonderfully generous and kind folks at Rutabaga in Madision, WI.  The hosts of the world's largest paddlesports expo, Canoecopia!  Megan who coordinates events for Rutabaga and Darren, the owner were amazing.  When approached they jumped at the chance to help.  Not only did they send a fantastic stove, thernals (perfectly suited to complement IR's clothing), but they sent an amazing array of Cliff bars, jels, shotz, etc. to help keep our energy levels up.  Darren, Megan, thank you so much, I can't wait to get back to Madision to share the story and images with you!


Cadillac Mountain Sports

Here in the town of Bar Harbor in the middle of winter, life is very quiet and cold!  When I discovered odd's and ends I still needed, my local shop came to the rescue with a very generous gift certificate!  A last minute request and they didn't hesitate.  If you make it up here to Bar Harbor check them out on Cottage Street and say hi to Ron especially.

SPOT

The good folks at Spot Inc, the makers of the satellite personal tracker have provide Jeff and I two "messengers" that will allow you to track our progress and for us to send "OK" messages as well as call for help no matter where we find ourselves.
This looks like an amazing and important piece of gear.  I'll be resting easier knowing we're both carrying one.