Communications and information are spotty as usual, but here’s what we know so far:
Moira emailed this photo of the Chistochina checkpoint from her phone and texted that all three teams arrived in excellent shape. Spencer made particular mention of Violet and Chena, but all his dogs are doing extremely well. Aliy spotlighted Junior’s super enthusiasm and Allen reported that the trail is pretty dry with sugary snow that is sticking to everything.
At this moment, all three teams are taking a long rest in Chisto. We will look forward to a more complete report from Moira when she gets to wi-fi coverage at Meiers Lake.
Completely amazing is the fact that after starting in 36th position, Allen was 5th to arrive in Chistochina. That means he passed 31 teams in a 50 mile stint, or about one every ten minutes. He is obviously on an absolutely blistering pace and has passed everyone except the 6th, 9th, 14th and 16th starters.
I have no information about why Allen didn’t start Quito in lead, nor any information that anything is wrong with her. My guess is that he decided to hold her in reserve for more open trails ahead, letting other leaders do the passing work on the first stint.
Checkpoint times are only just beginning to be posted, and I will have more analysis to offer as they become available… So SPK!
Woohoo, Thanks Macgellan!
Violet, Chena and Junior, way to impress. Gonna be just like Momma Olivia, aren't ya?!
Happy to hear all three teams are getting a much deserved rest, that will pay off later, zzzz.
🙂
Thank Mac; it must be frustrating to not have an official leaderboard, but in this case, with the time differential of Allen's departure, one can be assured his time to Chistochina was fastest. I did not know that Quito had not started in lead, although I wondered if Quito had gained much more brown in her coat than I noticed last weekend when I was out at the kennel!
Thanks for taking time to post this.
Whoa – game change. I was expecting Allen to stay in Chistochina for 6 hours plus the differential. but he is on the move.
Good to know everyone is in excellent shape! It's fun hearing how the youngsters are stepping up…having a youthful flare in the Teams may be SPKs "secret weapon"! SPK all the way! Oh, and nice to have Mac back too!
Thanks Moira – and awesome analysis, Macgellan!!!
Thanks so much Mac for your race analysis!!!
It helps understand the race dynamics so much!!!
Allen and the Black Team are at their usual best!!! So excited so follow the race!!!
Love the read!keep posting !!!
Thanks so much for the update. Allen is setting a blistering pace.