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Big Day on the Yangtze!
// September 11th, 2009 // 100 Comments » // Uncategorized
I spoke with both Eric and Cheryl late last night and they recounted day 4 of their Yangtze expedition. The canyon narrowed dramatically forcing the group into the most tumultuous waters seen thus far. Class 4+, 5 rapids challenged the group with highly technical maneuvers and 10-15ft breaking waves. Eric recounted how his oars were bending 30% under the strain of the water and demanding river negotiating. The group navigated the rapids successfully free from any incidents of swimming or boats flipping. Relieved the group looked forward to a rest day, enjoying the sunshine and resting up from the incredibly exhausting day.
Day 3 on the River
// September 9th, 2009 // 45 Comments » // Uncategorized
A call via satellite phone was received on the morning of Day 4. Day 3 was fast moving class 2+ water. Cheryl and Megan spent some more time at the oars, and everyone tried to avoid the large boils and eddies due to the slightly rising river. White lipped antelope were seen at high elevations above the river reminding the group that they are in a unique and beautiful place miles from home. The valley continues to narrow with mountains growing in height while the canyon narrows. After 21 miles, 51 total in the last 3 days, the group set up camp on a riverside farm. The farm owner, age 65, came down and spent some time with the group sharing some soup and talking story. He was worried about the group- their food supply, warmth etc and proceeded to bring down some yak dung to help make the group more comfortable during their stay.
Day 4 & 5 are anticipated to be larger rapids, as the mountains jut more jaggedly towards the sky constraining the great Yangtze. Spirits are high, excitement was palpable. The adventure continues!
More to come…
Day 2 on the River
// September 8th, 2009 // 29 Comments » // Uncategorized
The group hudled around the satellite phone on the morning of Day 3 to relate the day prior. As the canyon walls began to tighten the group enjoyed more rolling waves- calss 2, 3-. Megan took a turn at the oars navigating sucessfully through the delightful rapids. A beautiful camp allowed the group an opportunity to hike to 15,000ft where they had a breathtaking view of a remote village on the otherside of the river. The village appeared to be decorating trucks, covering them in prayer flags before a swift departure. The group humorously surmised where they might be off to under such occasion.
A rainy night brought the river up appx. 1 ft. and anxiety seemed to be heightened slightly as the ever tightening canyon looms ahead leaving behind the open meadows of Day 1 &2. Larger rapids are expected today (Day 3) and we hope that the canyon will allow a report via Satellite phone or SPOT transceiver. Eric wanted news on his dog, Jason refused to leave his sleeping bag, and Cheryl seemed anxious for news at home. The group seemed happy, and excited.
Day 1, and SPOT location of camp
// September 8th, 2009 // 25 Comments » // Uncategorized
The group called in via satellite phone after the completion of their first day on the Yangtze. Spirits were high as they recalled class 2, 3- rapids, beautiful Tibetan meadows and isolated villages. Swift water rescue drills allowed each of the members to practice swimming, and throwing throw bags – essential river skills that hopefully will prove unnecessary. Each member of the expedition took a turn at the oars allowing each to feel the strong river beneath them. The canyon is reportedly tightening ahead of them bringing with it anticipation of larger water ahead.
Mike Martin celebrated an early 30th birthday to the delight of all expedition members.
The sun is shining, the water seems to be dropping, and the group is excited and ready for the days ahead.
SPOT LOCATION: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=33.8043,96.0772&ll=33.8043,96.0772&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
