In June 2017 Karl Kruger paddled into SUP history when he became the first person to complete the 750 mile Race to Alaska on a stand-up paddleboard. Kruger paddled from Port Townsend, Washington to Ketchikan, Alaska in just over 14 days. The Race to Alaska is likened to the Iditarod, but on a boat, with a chance of drowning, being run down by a freighter, or eaten by a grizzly bear. There are squalls, killer whales, tidal currents that run upwards of 20 mph, and some of the most beautiful scenery on earth…

Now, Cloud 9 Events has arranged for Kruger to speak about his R2AK experience at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 24 at the Orcas Island Odd Fellows Hall. His presentation will include photos from the Inside Passage, stories from his journey, and discoveries that can only occur on a 17-foot board with no land in sight.

The Orcas Island community enthusiastically supported Team Heart of Gold’s R2AK paddle. Kruger is excited for the chance to speak to his home community and is happy the opportunity arrives with the ability to raise funds for Orcas Island’s youth sailing program.

“Paddling gives me an ever-deepening connection to the water, to the wilds,” said Kruger. ‘What I would love is to give back by using that connection for raising awareness, interest, and funds for community and environmental needs. Sail Orcas’ youth sailing program is a perfect fit.”

Join Team Heart of Gold and Sail Orcas for light refreshments, stories, questions, and Bella — the custom board designed by Joe Bark just for this race. All proceeds from the event – a suggested $10 per person – will go toward Sail Orcas, and be used to help fund the youth sailing team’s traveling to competitions and regattas.