[Woodcarver] drying a 10" log

[Fishley, Ray (IS - Municipal Engineering)]

I would like to carve a 10" x 12 foot log. 
I am looking for away to dry it so that it does not crack or check.
I was thinking of drilling a 1" hole through the center of it and connecting
a vacuum to it for a few weeks.
Does anyone know how I might go about drilling the hole or does anyone have
a better idea?

Thanks in advance 
Ray F