Apart from one unscheduled dip in the rapids, it has been smooth sailing so far for father and son team of Paul (48) and Sam (17) Richardson of Waitepeka, near Balclutha, on their fundraising challenge to paddle the length of the Clutha River.
It was the elder of the two who plunged into the icy water near the start of the journey on Sunday.
However, Mr Richardson's mishap failed to put a dampener on things, and the pair paddled a small section of the 338km river from the outlet at Lake Wanaka to the Red Bridge at Luggate on day 1, before travelling about 45km to Cromwell yesterday.
Their motivation is the McGlashan Challenge, a requirement of Dunedin's John McGlashan College, which Sam attends.
Senior pupils set themselves a challenge of their choice, and for keen Kaka Point Surf Club members Mr Richardson and Sam, tackling the mighty Clutha on surf skis was an obvious option.
Sam's mother Paula said her son was a "real water baby" who also enjoyed surfing and water polo, "so it made sense that the challenge had something to do with water".
With Mrs Richardson and Sam's sister Olivia on hand as support crew, the duo hope to be reaching the river mouth by Thursday.
From there, they will continue on another few kilometres to their local surf club, where they will be met by a welcoming committee of fellow paddlers.
Sam has already raised nearly $1000 for his chosen charity, the Otago Community Hospice, which supported his grandfather when he was ill two years ago.
"They did such a good job, it seemed like a good way to say thanks," he said.
The idea for his McGlashan Challenge had easily gained the seal of approval from his school.
"They quite liked it, and it's just a bonus that we're able to raise so much for the hospice as well."
The pair have Alexandra in their sights today.
Donations towards Sam's fundraiser can be made at www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/samrichardson.
