A Red Deer man has packed his bags, said his goodbyes and has left on a trip of a lifetime.
With just his motorcycle, a tent and a few personal belongings, Kix Marshall, 32, began his journey to the southern tip of South America on Saturday.
Along for the ride is his GoPro camera. Not only is Marshall making the trip, but his plan is to film the entire thing.
“This is a like a test and I want to see if I can actually do it or not. There’s a lot of mental stuff about being on your bike all day, by yourself and other personal challenges. I figure if I can do this, I can do anything,” said Marshall.
Beginning at Turple Brothers Limited in Red Deer, his plan is to make it all the way Ushuaia, Argentina.
“I’ve heard of four guys doing it in about 32 days, but I’m planning for a year,” laughed Marshall. “I don’t think I’d be able to do it in 32 days so I have a one year goal.”
Marshall was exposed to travelling as a teenager and it’s something he has held onto ever since.
“First time I went anywhere was when I was 18. I went to Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand and Australia and realized the world was so accessible. People are so different and unique and there’s so many things you can see along the way,” said Marshall.
“I was hooked after that. Since then, I have gone somewhere every year and I just can’t get enough of it.”
Although he is excited for this new adventure, there are some concerns about traveling alone through South America.
“There’s the thought of running into drug lords, banditos or getting robbed in your sleep. My parents listed off a 100 things before I left, but I’m still thinking about the beaches and beer,” said Marshall.
For now, his goal is Ushuaia, but if he can find a way, Marshall would like to extend the trip.
“If I can find a sponsor or a job along the way I’ll go to Africa, Europe and then home again. If not, I’ll turn around and drive right back,” said Marshall.
For anybody wanting to follow his journey, Marshall will post updates on www.kixmarshall.com/blog/if-you-dont-do-it-now-you-never-will.
jonathan.guignard@www.reddeeradvocate.com