Day 35 / Apr 9 – Overcoming Setbacks is the name of the game.
The 3 Old Guys set out yesterday intending to conquer the winding tangle of the Porcupine River and, ideally, arrive in Fort Yukon by evening.
Setting out, the going was slow as they continued to fight the deep snow and make trail. It was around 4pm (Alaska time) when the message came through that another snowmobile (Rex’s this time) had caught fire. 
With limited ability to communicate, the Guys reported that they were safe and healthy, but frustrated and disappointed at this turn in events- so close and yet so far from their final destination, one can only imagine the emotions that were pulsing in those moments.
Already low on fuel, the Guys had no choice but to leave the equipment and continue the journey into Fort Yukon for help- They were still a long ways out and it was unclear whether they would even be able to make it to town before nightfall.
Meanwhile, our “home-crew” went to work, determined to re-energize and support our Guys. We leveraged Facebook – and all of you- to help us. With our phones on fire (in a different sense), we direct messaged, called and texted a network of people striving to help the guys in any way we could from our cozy homes.
We were quickly able to contact individuals from Fort Yukon and garner support. We have seen it so many times on this journey, but once again we were humbled by the Fort Yukon community and their willingness to help— they went out and met our Guys on the trail- traveling ~50 miles before their paths crossed and they were able to escort the Guys into town- offering not only a trail, but guidance towards the easiest route into town. Deep gratitude for the support of Joshua Cadzow and the many others that pitched in late on a Saturday.
As if that wasn’t enough, upon arrival, the tribal leaders welcomed them with a warm meal- stew, moose meat, rice, and veggies. What a blessing after a brutal day. Thank you Melanie Olivia!
The 3 Old Guys took the evening and morning to evaluate all options (pretty sure we are on Plan G or H of this trek about now). We do not have a full understanding of what happened to the snowmobile that caught fire. Thankfully, it sounds pretty mild- as far as snowmobile fires go! – the Guys think it may have been a fuel line leak that then sparked the fire on restart.
The current plan is to retrieve the equipment with some amazing Fort Yukon help and work to fix the machine. – if this plan works, and they have the necessary parts, the Guys could be back on track and on the move as early as Tuesday, but that is a big unknown.
The 3 Old Guys fully appreciate that every day that passes is another day of changing weather as this journey gets longer and the temperatures rise; this is on their minds as they consider other backup plans in the event they are unable to make the necessary repairs, but for now we are going to remain positive that the 3 Old Guys can overcome this latest obstacle.
The 3 Old Guys do not have internet or phone service in Fort Yukon. We have been able to speak with them to cover critical details through local land lines, but our communication continues to be extremely limited. (Also no ability to get updates pics).
Easter is about Hope, and the people on this journey that have helped the 3 Old Guys every step of the way – including this last leg, have certainly helped restore our Hope in the kindness of humanity. These 3 Guys have more grit than the average, but it is all the individuals that have assisted along the way that have ensured success on this expedition. Thank you.
Fairbanks…. The 3 Old Guys are still coming for you! Please be patient — we will continue to keep you posted! 
