Iditarod 2009: Dropped Dogs
To everyone involved in sled dog racing, the term “dropped dogs” is a very familiar one. I’ve used the term here recently, and it occurred to me that those of you who are not as familiar with the sport might find a little explanation useful: In every sled dog race … Read More
Iditarod 2009: Allen Through McGrath
As soon as I got back to McGrath yesterday afternoon, I hustled down to the checkpoint in hopes of being there for Allen’s arrival. I was disappointed to learn that I had missed him racing through by an hour, but pleased to realize that he was running so fast. I … Read More
Iditarod 2009: Aliy In Takotna
I should probably have edited this video down a bit, but it took me long enough to mess around with the audio and I didn’t want to delay posting it any longer. Come to think of it, Aliy may kill me for posting it at all, but maybe if enough … Read More
Iditarod 2009: Mission To McGrath, Time In Takotna
I have just returned from my 24+ hour mission to Macgrath, during which I also spent some time in Takotna. Here’s a quick recap and preview: My flight arrived in McGrath at 9:30 yesterday morning and I walked about a mile to the checkpoint. I was able to confirm that … Read More
Iditarod 2009: Last Minute Line-Ups
In reviewing my recent posts, I realized that I’ve given you bits and pieces about the selection of dogs for SP Kennel’s Iditarod teams. It’s a complex process, so I though I’d give you a fuller explanation all in one place. Iditarod rules require that every dog who will run … Read More
Iditarod 2009: Early Wednesday Update
Good morning! Aliy blew through McGrath at 3:57 this morning, spending only one minute to check in with race officials before pulling her hook and heading on down the trail to Takotna. I hope her dad was standing right there to give her a kiss and send her on her … Read More
Iditarod 2009: Late Tuesday Update
Aliy is on her way out of Nikolai with 15 dogs and Allen is on his way in with the same number. I can’t tell you the teams’ strategy, but I can tell you that tomorrow will be a big day for decisions! We got a call from Aliy’s dad … Read More
Iditarod 2009: Future Racers?
I caught this shot as I was leaving the Iditarod Start… I’m making it part of the Iditarod 2009 coverage by giving it the title “Future Racers?” The truth is that I don’t think there’s anything cuter than Husky puppies and I just wanted to share this photo with you!
Iditarod 2009: Allen’s Dropped Dog
Amy Wheaton — one of our fantastic “dog care” support people in Anchorage — just called to say that she had picked up Allen’s dropped dog. Sorry to say, it’s Heeler! Heeler’s wrist has been acting up a bit lately, getting a little swollen during some training runs. Every time, … Read More