Troy Henkels >> Bering Strait Expedition Returns Home

After three weeks of waiting in Wales to attempt a kiteboard crossing of the Bering Strait from Alaska to Russia, Geza and I have called off the expedition and returned home.

After patiently waiting for the right wind to get to Russia, we made several attempts, only to be turned back by support boat breakdowns.  Finally, to avoid further boat problems limiting our chances of success, we hired a local boat and Captain from Little Diomede. The next days with strong enough wind, were far to rough on the ocean for our Captain to venture out in. So, the dilemma we faced was one of the sea being calm enough for our support boat, but with a strong enough wind to carry us to Russia. The Bering Strait is a wild place and the weather changes very quickly, as do the seas. The locals have a healthy respect for this small stretch of water and for good reason. Things can go from very calm to total chaos and huge seas in a very short amount of time. Water temperatures of 40F and more than a few strong currents, were the least of our worries with such rapidly changing weather, wind, and sea conditions.

Despite not making it across, it was an amazing experience to be apart of the local community and culture. We did get in numerous amazing sessions on the Strait and of course, it did not disappoint offering us strong, gusty conditions, and wild seas.

The new Catalyst was the perfect kite and performed flawlessly.

See www.BeringStraitExpedition.com or www.TroyHenkels.com