NFCT Revised Mission Statement

May 15, 2009

My original mission was to attempt the first solo thru-paddle of a kayak along the NFCT from Old Forge, NY to Ft Kent, ME. In addition, I was attempting to become the oldest person to paddle the trail. Unfortunately, this mission is now in jeopardy since I have discovered today that another kayaker is already on the trail. He started May 1st.
   

Therefore, I have added a level of complexity to my mission. My revised plan is to now try to become the fastest person (solo or tandem) to paddle the trail. I plan to attempt this without any shuttles. I will follow the trail in one direction only (southwest to northeast) and will paddle as much of the trail as is humanly possible. I will portage my kayak on designated carry trails as well as along any feasible rights of way when absolutely necessary due to rapids, water falls, or impassable objects. Since water conditions are variable and may prove to make the trail unnavigable in many locations, and as there are no rules as to where or when one portages his boat, it will be up to the reader to decide whether I accomplish this feat in a properly acceptable manner.
  

I will accept no help in paddling or portaging my kayak. I will carry all of my own food, water and gear. I will camp and cook as often as possible. However, I will take advantage of the niceties of civilization at times if and when I feel it necessary as this trail is both an urban as well as backwoods endeavor.
  

All extra food, water and gear will be dropped off ahead of time at pre-selected locations. In the event that I have an immediate need, I will pursue it locally or forego it completely.

  
I will utilize a SPOT (https://maps.findmespot.com/s/3TKD/P3) satellite transponder to track my progress in real time and make it available to the public for verification. I will publish the results of my adventure and all supporting metrics sometime after I have completed my mission.
  

Most of my planning documents will be made available to the public sometime in the future as a guide to those wishing to repeat this adventure.
  

I plan to document my adventure extensively via an ongoing log, photographs and High Definition video – all of which will be made available to the public at a later date – either through this web site, a DVD or as a separate publication.
  

Smash Toe Productions, LLC
  

I have organized a film production team to help document this endeavor. The team includes a professional photographer Robert “Bob” Homan who plans to photograph and film my adventure from shore whenever possible and his wife Sandra “Sandy” Homan who will run a Blog on our Facebook website, manage my photos and videos as well as those of Bob, provide all technical support, and ensure that all electronic equipment is operating properly.