Hey Stephan,

Where in Montana are you? I live in Missoula. I was planning to paddle in the Peaks to Prairie as well, although my team feel through, so looks like I will have to try for next year.

I am relatively new to kayaking... canoed the Main Salmon a few years ago on a NOLS course, and done some recreational kayaking on the lakes and rivers around. I really enjoy it and want to learn more. I'm in the midst of building my first SOF - a recovery kayak. I was hoping to finish it in time to paddle in the race, but now that doesn't really matter so I am taking my time on it. I am making a paddle as well, although it sounds like yours will be far nicer than what I'm working on. Are you paddling a kayak that you built?

Good luck with the build and the race. It sounds like it will be a fun and exciting day!

Erin