BONNERS FERRY — Julie Kirk and Josh Friedman are embarking on their grand adventure once again, taking on the Yukon River Quest, a paddling race to the midnight sun, from Whitehorse to Dawson City. The paddlers will race almost straight through with only two mandatory breaks.

Joining them this year is Wayne and Wanda Wilkerson, who will act as their support crew, a crucial part of the team.

The race will begin on June 26, at noon. The mixed tandem kayak racing team, called Spirit of America, have spent this past year training hard.

“This past year we both have spent a lot of time improving our technique,” said Kirk. “Our goal is first; as always, to be able to finish and second; to improve our time.”

Interested people may follow along with their progress.

“We are team #43 and anyone can follow us during the race by going to #yukonriverquest2019 — click on the tracker tab,” said Kirk.

The team has received overwhelming support from the community year after year.

“We both thank God for keeping us safe and we thank our customers at Mountain Mike’s for supporting us,” said Kirk.