The Kayak Fishing Week in Review – December 10, 2010

I think it’s only fitting that we spend this week reflecting on the tragedy that occurred in Africa on Wednesday. Hendri Coetzee was attacked and killed by a crocodile while leading an Eddie Bauer sponsored expedition with several other American kayakers. This was a dream trip by any stretch of the imagination, but as can any outdoors adventure, it ended badly. A note from Eddie Bauer:

Yesterday Eddie Bauer received word that the South African whitewater guide, Hendri Coetzee, who was leading First Ascent Kayakers Ben Stookesberry and Chris Korbulic through the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), was pulled from his kayak on the Lukuga River by a crocodile and is presumed dead. Following the incident, Ben and Chris were able to paddle to safety and contact the International Rescue Committee (IRC) who dispatched a team to evacuate them to safety. U.S. and South African embassies were also notified. The team is completing formalities with local authorities in Congo and expects to return home shortly.

Rest in Peace, Hendri.

Image courtesy of Steve Fisher.