YQ: In and Out of Pelly

It’s 10.20pm Yukon Time.

Allen and team pulled into Pelly Crossing checkpoint in 4th position at 9.22pm tonight. He stayed just seven minutes, long enough to grab his “to go” bag of supplies and return one of his team mates to the handler crew. It was a super efficient stop and in case you are wondering he IS still in race mode!

Thanks to Kalyn from Ryno crew for the pics and video!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Perky is doing the remainder of the race in the truck with Ziptie. He had a sore shoulder which, although not bad, Allen thought he shouldn’t continue.

Perky’s had a fantastic season, finishing 4th in the Copper Basin 300 in January and he followed that up with getting the nod for this race. Allen will miss his perky, happy attitude and power in the remaining 250 miles.

Here he is consulting with vet Kimberly – “Take one dog aspirin and rest. Call me in the morning.” He’s already had a nice hot meal and is sleeping in the truck.

Obviously it would have been great to continue with 14 on the line but never at the expense of causing a long-term injury so Allen left with 13 strong team mates.

Bridgett said “Allen looked good. Dogs looked great. When they arrived I asked, “so are you staying or going?” He smiled then started singing – slowly “should I stay or should I go now” by the Clash. I said “Dad, seriously!” and with a snarky smile then laughed said, “I’M GOING!” He was slap stick happy and in very high spirits.”

Earlier in the day the team spent six hours at Stepping Stone, all enjoying a break during the day. They ran the 36 miles through from there to Pelly in just under five hours. Allen will continue the team down the trail likely until McCabe Crossing Dog Drop, another 34 miles on, where we expect he will rest for a few hours.

The trail between Pelly and McCabe takes teams overland from the Pelly River back towards the Yukon River, mushing over a few frozen lakes and ponds including Tthe Ndu Lake. This trail also takes teams from the traditional territories of the Selkirk Nation into Little Salmon/Carmacks territory. Check out this great map that shows the traditional territories of Yukon First Nations. We thank all the first nations for sharing their lands with us.

To get to McCabe Creek stop, teams usually travel under a bridge to cross the Klondike highway but this year the snow level is too high and teams can’t go under so must go over. There will be volunteeers and helpers to ensure they get across the road safely and we thank them all in advance for keeping everyone safe.

McCabe Creek is another example of local people extending their incredible hospitality to the race, the teams and their supporters. McCabe Creek is a working farm run by the Kruse family and they open their property up every year. Amazing cinnamon rolls, soup and stew plus mattresses for the mushers and a warm fire to dry clothing. The dogs get straw, hot water for their meal and a peaceful rest. Pretty nice huh?

The handler crew will go to McCabe to see the team then make their way to Carmacks checkpoint.

Before leaving Dawson this morning Aliy sent through this video of Tukaway, Ryno and Squid squads. Since the video we learned Chase scratched from the race and we are sorry for our friend, but Chase is well known for his dog care and making the right decision for his team.