Sycamore Access, Des Moines River, Johnston IA

Rick Dietz of Ames carries on the tradition of paddling up to Saylorville Dam on New Year’s day. In 2008, this meant paddling in 20 degree temps with 30 mph winds. This 2 mile trip took about 2 hours. I went about a mile and gave up, but I was there to greet the other 4 brave souls upon their return.

We all question their sanity.

His gloves, called pogies, are attached to the paddle. They are coated in ice, as is the boat, his clothes, and pretty much everything else. But he’s so happy, and said later on that with the eagles and swans, this was the best ever 1/1 paddle.