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Trans-Tasman kayak adventurers land in NZ

Sunday, 13 January 2008

20 days later than originally planned, James Castrission and Justin Jones have succeeded in paddling across the Tasman sea. They arrived at Ngamotu Beach on NZ's West Coast around midday yesterday to a warm reception and were promptly provided beer. Many believed the crossing simply couldn't be done but in their custom built tandem kayak the pair have proven the doubters wrong. That's not to say they did it easily, however. At one point they were caught in a 'whirlpool' that had them inadvertantly going around in circles, and from all reports, there were numerous other low points that challenged their morale. The welcoming beer at the end of the trip probably made it all feel worthwhile.

They were at sea for about 2 months, which (as most of you would know) is an exceptionally long time to be paddling. Just imagine what it would have felt like to stand up on dry land again... I feel wobbly after just 4 or 5 hours! Congradulations gents - I'm cracking an honorary beer right now. Legends!