Brad Friesen has completed some incredible feats and shares with us his journey into endurance paddling from river surfing and white water paddling. His background in canoeing, kayaking, and mountaineering led him to discover stand up paddle boarding. Brad talks about his experience with endurance events such as the Yukon River Quest and the Yukon 1000, and the mental and physical challenges they present.

Brad shares his passion for the sport and the dedication he has for his role as a race director for the Red River Challenge. We chat about the importance of training, rest, nutrition and hydration for ultra long distance paddling, how kids racing is crucial for growing the sport and fostering the next generation of paddlers, and how to work your way up to longer distances and more difficult paddling challenges. Brad also shares tips for training in cold weather and alternative activities like cross-country skiing and fat biking. He talks about his preferred gear and equipment, and why we should all really be carrying spare paddles.

Brad highlights the supportive and empowering community of ultra paddlers and invites listeners to participate in the Red River Challenge in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

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