THE ITINERARY
Ash Dykes and the team planned the following route to accomplish their mission to kayak from the source of the Coppename River to the sea.
MOVEMENT #1
The Perilous Ascent
The journey commenced with a dramatic helicopter drop into the base of Julianatop, Suriname’s highest peak. The team were relying on the dry season to expose sandbanks for landing amidst the impenetrable jungle. From there, they followed the Coppename River, trekking to a suitable spot to stow their kayaks and supplies before attempting to conquer the 1,280-meter mountain and set a new Guinness World Record for the fastest ascent.
MOVEMENT #2
The Long Swim
After summiting Julianatop and making their way downstream, the team faced the gruelling challenge of paddling upstream against a relentless current for several days to reach the base of Tafelberg — Suriname’s version of Table Mountain.
MOVEMENT #3
The Second Summit
Tafelberg, standing 1,000 meters tall and rarely explored, was to be their next conquest. The goal: to set the Guinness World Record for summiting the two highest peaks (Julianatop & Tafelberg) in record time. Tafelberg offered breathtaking vistas and a rare glimpse into the region's unique and fragile biodiversity. After scaling this daunting peak, the team navigated their way back, confronting treacherous rapids, and battling fallen trees, all while striving to reach Raleighfalls.
MOVEMENT #4
The Final 100km Trek
The team then faced a gruelling 100km push to the coast, where blisters, exhaustion, and the relentless jungle would test their endurance to the limit. Upon completing this harrowing journey, Ash became the first person ever to kayak from the source to the sea of one of the most remote rivers in the world.
Photography supplied by Jacob Hudson
MISSION SUCCESS
Here's what Ash had to say upon completion of his record breaking endeavour.
AS WORN BY ASH DYKES
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