On the 23^rd May 2010,  Mark Ressel and Ingrid Kvale will be paddling 30 kilometres (19 miles) in a double kayak around the lagoon and canals of Venice to raise funds for the Devon Air Ambulance.   They are taking part in the Vogalonga, a rowing race that was started 35 years ago, and today includes five thousand participants and over one thousand paddle craft of all shapes and sizes from row boats, dragon boats and gondolas to kayaks. 

However, over the years, it has become more of a celebration of paddle craft and sporting challenge with a carnival-like atmosphere.

Last year the participants experienced strong winds and rough water, and several boats capsized!  Mark and Ingrid are hoping for better weather, but it could still take them as much as 5 hours of solid paddling to complete the race.  At least knowing that every stroke they take will help raise funds for a worthy cause, will keep them going!

www.vogalonga.com/eng/index_ing.asp

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