The Iditarod starts next week, but before you saddle up your puppies you may want to check out the Iditarod Trail Invitational, the running/skiing/biking/hiking version of the race happening this week. You get to choose one of the formentioned modes of transportation to complete the 350 mile or 1000+ mile trail.
www.alaskaultrasport.com
I was up for it until I learned you had to bandage up your nose so you don't lose it :( crazy!
3 comments:
I won't ever be participating in this, but I will certainly watch it. I believe part of the Iditarod goes by or starts just down the road from where we'll be.
Those are some hard-core athletes up there. I've heard that not only do you risk losing body parts, but that your breath freezes in the air, creating "ice fog". Speaking of body parts, they sell special underwear for men that block the wind/cold so they don't lose a certain special part! It will certainly be an adventure!
I am amazed by these athletes. I say this as I point out that every time I Iditarod, all I see is the word "idiot."
I mean that with the utmost respect, but really, every time I see that word, Iditarod; I see this other word.
Of course, by now, we are all aware that I am not above being an idiot for my sport, so this is by no means an attempt to pass judgement. I don't think this is a race I would be interested in doing. I do not like cold and I have been more than vocal about wind. I think I can honestly say with conviction that this is not the race for me.
However, I am looking forward to my trip to Alaske, so E better find me a race I can do with more favorable conditions.
I've got my eye out for races, but the '09 calendar isn't out yet (obviously). According to the '08 calendar though, it looks like the longer races are held late July/early August. The marathon isn't until Sep 20, which I think is too late due to school.
In July: the Gold Discovery Run is 16.5 miles, which might be too ambitious for me. Also, there's the Chena Hot Springs Run and Soak that's 8.5 miles and you get a free swim, whatever that means. Free soak in the hot springs maybe?
August: the Granite Tors Trail Run is 15 miles through a state park, but you have to carry your own water. The Santa Claus Half-Marathon has an "awesome post race BBQ".
There are tons of other races, but they're 10K and shorter. Fine for me, but V. likes more distance. Anybody else interested in running in the tundra? You're all welcome!
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