A BASINGSTOKE charity’s vice chair has finished fourth in class in the world’s longest paddle race.

Lt Col Dan Hollway, the vice chair of YPI (Young People’s Independent) Counselling, and his rowing partner Capt (Retd) Nick Spicer completed the world-famous Yukon 1000 race and finished fourth in class and seventh overall.

Both Dan and Nick are part of the British Army The Royal Yorkshire Regiment.

“Crossing the finish line at Dalton Highway I felt a mix of pure elation and relief,” said Dan, who paddled from Canada up into the Arctic Circle.

READ MORE: Man to take on 'longest paddle race' to raise money for Basingstoke charity

“The race is absolutely brutal, it is 1,000 miles along a beautiful river, but after paddling for 18 hours a day for seven days, with the weather varying from torrential rain, electrical storms, to searing heat and the light reflecting off the water it starts to wear you down physically and emotionally.

“During the darker moments during the race, when we thought about withdrawing, bodies hurting, hands blistering, we were motivated by the thought of the love and support from our families, friends, and for the charities that we were supporting, the power of purpose can push you past the impossible.

“One thousand miles is a huge amount and almost too much to comprehend, so we split the race down into manageable sections, set goals, and just made one paddle stroke after stroke.  

“There were highlights along the way as well, such as seeing a black bear swimming in front of us, the incredible scenery, surviving the 5 Finger Rapids, deepening my friendship with my race partner Nick, and most importantly meeting all the incredible competitors from around the world. Thank you to all for their advice and moral support along the way.”

SEE ALSO: Castle Hill Infant School celebrates departing headteacher

YPI Counselling is based at The Orchard in White Hart Lane, Basingstoke.

It offers confidential counselling to hundreds young people aged 11-25 in the Basingstoke and Deane area.

Working closely with local doctors, schools, colleges and children’s services, the charity offers counselling to support a wide range of issues affecting young people and parents.

It is funded by grants from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Hampshire County Council and the North Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group among others.

Dan said: “YPI is an incredible charity, doing wonderful things to support the young people of Basingstoke and Deane. Over my four-year involvement in the charity so far, I have seen the amazing work that the counsellors deliver, and I know that everything we raise on this challenge directly supports the improvement of young people’s lives.  

“It’s now time to reflect on the event, spend time with my incredibly patient family, and to do a final push on fundraising for YPI Counselling.” 

To donate to YPI counselling, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/yukon1000-fftb

You can watch stunning footage of all the participating teams and find out more information about the race on https://linktr.ee/yukon1000