The Iditarod Invitational
When one mentions the Iditarod, the first thing that people think of is the famous dog race from Anchorage to Nome. Another race might come to mind for those who read the sports pages… the Irondog race, a snow machine race, along the same route (there and back). Not many people picture (much) the less publicized, all human-powered race that takes place each year, The Iditarod Trail Invitational. There is an entrance fee ($800 - $850), but no prize. The rules are few… you must be human powered (bike, hike, or ski). You can chose to go all the way to Nome (1100 miles) or to McGrath (350 miles). The race starts on Knik Lake (North of Anchorage).
All of your survival gear (shelter, clothing, and equipment such as skis or bike) must be with you from the start. There are 8 checkpoints along the way and 3 "drops" for certain items (like food and camp stove fuel). There are some meals and accommodations provided on the trail, but for the most part, you're on your own, baby.
I can't imagine racing in any of these races. But truly, of the three Iditarod races, the Invitational would be dead last on my list. And yet I still follow it. I am amazed at the strength of mind and body that it must take to attempt, much less accomplish, such a feat. If you are interested in reading some of the personal stories from the trail check out the link below. They will take up to 50 racers a year… this year there were 8 men and women from 3 different counties (those Germans really get around, don't they?).
http://www.alaskaultrasport.com/alaska_ultra_home_page.html
